When most people begin to plan out a new building in their mind, it’s common for them to think of things like layout, door and window placement, electrical needs, etc. What might not immediately make the top of the list are the available roofing choices.
Perhaps this is because it’s easy to think of a roof as a pre-determined thing, rather than a significant item on a list of critical structural options. But far from being pre-determined, the type of roof you choose has a longstanding impact on the overall longevity and purpose of your building.
Let’s take a closer look at the roofing choices available for agricultural and commercial buildings, as well as some modifications that enhance the durability of your roof.
Top Agricultural & Commercial Roofing Choices
Metal, shingles, and polycarbonate are all roofing materials that might come to your mind. But when it comes to longevity, two of these roofing choices stand out.
Metal Roof
A favorite for agricultural and commercial buildings – and increasingly popular for residential applications – is metal roofing. Selecting a metal roof is one of the sturdiest, longest-lasting choices you can make for your building.
Corrosion-resistant and rated for wind, snow, fire, and impact damage, metal roofs can take a beating, often with minimal maintenance. They are known to last over 40 years! Whether you are housing equipment, animals, or people in your building, a metal roof provides the security you need to rest easy.
In a sea of upsides, the only drawback is that metal roofs tend to cost more than other roofing materials. Their durability and longevity, however, can outweigh their price tag.
Polycarbonate Roof
A less common – yet still fully functional – roofing material is polycarbonate. The biggest advantage polycarbonate has over other roofing choices is better lighting, which makes it a popular option for greenhouses.
When framed and sealed properly, polycarbonate roofs are durable and efficient. Thanks to the abundant light, a building with a polycarbonate roof can see reduced electrical costs. If you are in a location where winters get very cold, the potential for sunlight-powered heating also increases with this type of roofing material.
If your building is storing something that can handle (or even requires) a little bit more exposure, this choice might be the best way to save a little more money while still having a roof overhead.
Roofing Options to Boost Longevity
As you’re making roofing choices, there are further options to consider that can increase the longevity of your building.
Steel Panel Modifications for Post-Frame Buildings
One of the advantages of post-frame construction is the ability to customize steel panels to meet the specific needs of your building.
From increased durability to improved moisture control, selecting the right panel options can significantly enhance the long-term performance of your structure.
Condensation Control with Dripstop
To further improve the durability of your roof, panels can also be upgraded with a Dripstop condensation control system.
The Dripstop system features a factory-applied felt membrane, bonded to the underside of the steel roof. Its primary purpose is to absorb condensation that forms on the underside of panels, gradually releasing this moisture as temperatures and humidity levels change. This feature helps prevent water from dripping onto equipment, vehicles, livestock, or stored materials, making it an ideal solution for uninsulated buildings.
In addition to controlling condensation, the membrane provides an extra layer of protection. It reduces the steel’s exposure to corrosive environments commonly found in agricultural and livestock facilities.
Let FS Construction Services Help with Your Roofing Choices
If you are in need of a new roof, or you’re planning a building and want to pair it with the right option, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know.
Give us a call at 866-551-3454 and let our specialists walk you through your roofing choices to find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you with the best client-focused service experience.