Industrial Roofing

An industrial roofing system with a coating typically includes several key components that work together to protect the building, enhance energy efficiency, and ensure durability in harsh environments. Coatings add an additional layer of protection and help extend the life of the roof. Below are the essential parts of an industrial roofing system with coating:

1. Roof Deck

• Definition: The base layer of the roofing system, made of materials like concrete, metal, or wood.

• Function: Provides structural support for the entire roofing system and serves as the foundation for other layers.

2. Vapor Barrier (or Vapor Retarder)

• Definition: A membrane layer that prevents moisture from entering the roof system from inside the building.

• Function: Protects insulation and other components from condensation and moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth or deterioration.

3. Insulation

• Definition: A layer of thermal insulation, commonly made from materials like polyisocyanurate (ISO), fiberglass, or rigid foam boards.

• Function: Enhances energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer, helping to maintain stable indoor temperatures and lower heating and cooling costs.

4. Roof Membrane

• Definition: The waterproofing layer that shields the roof from water infiltration. Common industrial roofing membranes include:

  • TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

  • EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

• Function: Provides a durable, weather-resistant barrier to prevent leaks and water damage.

5. Flashing

• Definition: Metal (usually aluminum or galvanized steel) components installed around roof edges, joints, and penetrations (such as vents and HVAC units).

• Function: Seals vulnerable areas to prevent water penetration at points where the roof membrane meets walls or other structures.

6. Roof Coating

• Definition: A fluid-applied membrane that forms a continuous, protective layer over the existing roof system. Types of coatings include:

  • Silicone: Highly durable and excellent at resisting ponding water.

  • Acrylic: Reflective and often used for UV protection.

  • Polyurethane: Known for toughness and impact resistance.

  • Elastomeric: Offers flexibility and weather resistance.

• Function: Extends the life of the roof by providing UV protection, improving waterproofing, and reducing thermal expansion and contraction. It also helps reflect sunlight, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing cooling costs.

7. Drainage System

• Definition: Components such as gutters, scuppers, downspouts, and internal drains that move water off the roof.

• Function: Prevents standing water (ponding), which can lead to leaks and structural damage. A well-functioning drainage system is essential for extending the life of the roof, especially with flat or low-slope designs.

8. Roof Penetrations

• Definition: Openings in the roof for items like HVAC systems, vents, pipes, and skylights.

• Function: Provides access points for necessary equipment while requiring proper sealing and flashing to prevent leaks around these areas.

9. Expansion Joints

• Definition: Flexible materials installed in the roof to accommodate movement caused by thermal expansion and contraction.

• Function: Prevents cracks or damage to the roof system by allowing the building and roof to expand and contract without stressing the roofing materials.

10. Parapet Walls

• Definition: Low perimeter walls that extend above the roofline.

• Function: Protects the roof from wind uplift, provides a barrier for safety, and directs water toward the drainage system.

11. Roof Edge (Coping or Edge Metal)

• Definition: Metal flashings that cover and protect the edges of the roof, where the roof meets the parapet walls or the exterior walls of the building.

• Function: Protects against water infiltration at the edges, where leaks are most likely to occur.

12. Walkway Pads

• Definition: Heavy-duty mats or pads installed in high-traffic areas on the roof.

• Function: Protects the roof membrane from damage caused by foot traffic, particularly in areas near HVAC units or access points.

13. Reflective or Cool Roof Coatings (Optional)

• Definition: A type of roof coating designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing materials.

• Function: Helps reduce cooling costs by keeping the roof cooler, reducing the building's internal temperature, and decreasing the heat island effect in urban areas.