A shopping mall’s roof can have an impact on the building’s lifespan, energy efficiency, and appearance. In addition to shielding the structure from the sun and rain, a decent roof also improves customer comfort and maintains the efficiency of the mall. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each choice will help you choose the best roof.
For this reason, we’ll examine three roofing options that can be utilized for shopping centers like malls so that if you’re a building manager you know the best options for new installations or replacement.
The 3 Best Roofing Options For Shopping Malls In Buffalo, New York
A durable roof is really important for a shopping mall because it looks good and gives shoppers and workers peace of mind. Let’s look into three great options that will provide durability.
#1. Modified Bitumen
Cost: $4.00 to $7.50 per square foot
The first option, modified bitumen, is an excellent option for shopping malls due to its weather resistance, durability, and reflective qualities. This material resists harsh conditions like high temperatures, strong winds, and heavy rain because of its remarkable elastic strength and flexibility. It consists of bitumen for asphalt that has been blended with polymers and reinforced with fiberglass or polyester.
People coming to the mall will notice a cooler interior because of its reflective top coating, which helps block the sun’s rays and reduce heat absorption. Furthermore, modified bitumen is easy to apply thanks to the different methods of application that can be used.
- Durability: Modified bitumen roofs are highly durable, withstanding high winds, and heavy rainfall, ensuring long-lasting protection.
- Weather Resistance: The material offers excellent weatherproofing, preventing water penetration and protecting the mall interior from damage.
- Reflective Properties: Modified bitumen roofs have a reflective top coating that reflects the sun rays, reducing heat absorption and keeping the mall cooler.
- Installation Options: It can be installed using self-adhesive, cold-adhesive, or heat application methods, ensuring a strong bond and secure roofing system.
- Ease of Maintenance: The material comes in rolled sheets that are easy to repair with bitumen patches, allowing for quick and efficient maintenance.
#2. EPDM
Cost: $3.50 to $10.00 per square foot
In New York, EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a common choice for shopping mall roofs because of its affordability, resilience to weather, and durability. This commercial roofing material is well known for its exceptional weather resistance, toughness, and capacity to tolerate light foot traffic.
Due to its longevity, this roofing material is especially well-suited for shopping mall roof design. Large buildings needing a strong and long-lasting roofing solution frequently choose EPDM roofing systems because of their outstanding durability and reputation for dependability.
- Durability: EPDM is highly durable and resistant to diverse weather conditions, making it ideal for New York’s climate.
- Longevity: These roofs offer long-term performance, maintaining their effectiveness even after decades of exposure to extreme weather.
- Energy Efficiency: EPDM is great for low-slope rooftops, helping lower energy costs. Available in black and white, its reflective properties further enhance energy efficiency.
- Adaptability: EPDM adapts well to unique roofing shapes, making it a versatile option for various structures.
- Eco-Friendly: EPDM is recyclable, making it appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
- Low Maintenance: EPDM roofing systems require minimal maintenance and withstand extreme temperatures, ensuring convenience and durability.
Also Read – What Is An EPDM Roof Membrane And How Much Does It Cost?
#3. PTFE-Coated Fiberglass Membrane
The last option, fiberglass membranes coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), combines the strength of fiberglass with the remarkable properties of PTFE to provide excellent performance and versatility.
Among its primary characteristics, this reinforced fabric material has exceptional resistance to harsh weather, which guarantees decent longevity in harsh settings. Its surface is also reflective, reducing a mall’s energy consumption.
- High-Temperature Resistance: The membrane withstands temperatures ranging from -100°F to +450°F, making it suitable for extreme climates.
- Low Maintenance: Its anti-static nature repels dust and dirt, while the non-stick coating simplifies cleaning.
- Flexibility: Despite its high strength, the membrane maintains surprising flexibility, accommodating various applications that require bending and shaping.
- UV Resistance: Resistant to ultraviolet radiation, ensuring durability and longevity in outdoor settings.
- Lifespan: With a lifespan exceeding 25 years, the PTFE-coated fiberglass membrane ensures long-term performance and cost-effectiveness.
How Often Should A Shopping Mall Roof Be Inspected And Maintained?
Maintaining the roof of a shopping mall is crucial for the safety of everyone inside and for protecting the building from damage. Here are some simple steps on how often to inspect and maintain shopping mall roofs:
1. When To Inspect
- Twice a Year: Inspect shopping mall roofs at least twice a year. Regular inspections help find problems early, saving money and avoiding disruptions.
2. What To Inspect
- The Roofing Material: Look for wear, cracks, or damage, especially after bad weather. Fixing these issues quickly prevents water damage and structural problems.
- Drainage: Make sure roof drains are clear of debris to avoid water pooling and leaks.
- Edges and Connections: Check metal parts, edges, and where the roof meets walls for rust or damage. Ensure the flashing is intact and sealed.
- Moisture Check: Use moisture surveys to find hidden leaks or moisture that could harm the roof.
- Advanced Methods: Use techniques like infrared scanning to spot problems not visible normally.
3. Maintenance Tasks
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the mall roof free of debris to prevent drainage blocks and water buildup. Trim nearby branches or plants that could also damage the roof.
- Quick Repairs: Fix any problems as soon as they are found to prevent further damage. Repair leaks, damaged roofing material, or worn out flashing to keep the roof waterproof.
- Professional Inspections: Hire professionals to regularly check and maintain rooftop equipment like HVAC systems, plumbing, and lighting.
- Long-Term Checks: Periodically check the mall’s doors, windows, electrical systems, and exterior surfaces to spot and fix maintenance needs early.
What Are The Costs Associated With Replacing A Shopping Mall Roof?
To estimate the cost of replacing a shopping mall roof, consider factors like roof size, shopping mall roof design, materials, labor, and additional features. On average, construction costs are about $442 per square foot. Architect fees can be 17% of the total budget, and contractor fees may add up to 14%, potentially increasing costs significantly. But in the end, specific requirements and location of the project will influence the final cost.
Get Professional Help For Commercial Roof Installation In Buffalo, New York
Choosing the right roofing system for a shopping mall is crucial for performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability. Consider each option and the specific needs of each project to make the right choice.
For a shopping mall roof, the roofing system is a significant investment, so seek professional advice and experienced contractors like those at OConnor Contracting. Our team ensures quality installation and maintenance, helping malls provide a safe, comfortable environment to shoppers and employees while reducing maintenance costs and energy consumption. Give us a call today at (716) 600-7663 to learn more about how we can help you with your upcoming roofing project.
