Not every commercial roof is built to handle the climate in Northeast Ohio. Here, your roof endures year-round challenges from Mother Nature. Snow and ice pile on. Rainstorms test seams. Summer heat beats down on materials, and winds whip around every corner.
GAF commercial roof systems are designed for environments like this. As one of North America’s leading roofing manufacturers, GAF offers a full lineup of commercial roofing solutions engineered to function as a complete system. No guesswork or patchwork. Just components built to fit, perform, and last over time.
Let’s take a closer look at the systems, components, and benefits that make GAF commercial roofing a smart choice for structures across Northeast Ohio.
Major Types of GAF Commercial Roof Systems
GAF offers a selection of commercial roofing systems to match different structure types, budgets, and performance requirements. Each could potentially work in Northeast Ohio, depending on the building’s location and your specific needs.
1. TPO Roofing Systems
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is one of the most popular choices for commercial roofing, and for good reason.
Its reflective surface helps reflect UV rays instead of letting them soak in, keeping your building cooler during the summer and helping reduce your cooling costs. It’s also one of the most affordable GAF roofing systems, though its lifespan may be shorter than that of other options.
TPO’s heat-welded seams provide a watertight bond, making it suitable for flat and low-slope roofs that drain more slowly during heavy rain. Optional walkway pads can also be installed to reinforce areas with heavy foot traffic to reduce premature wear.
TPO systems can be mechanically attached, fully adhered, or ballasted, offering greater flexibility in terms of cost and timeline. They’re also resistant to grease and some chemicals.
Best For: General commercial applications
2. PVC Roofing Systems
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing is a single-ply system known for its chemical resistance and durability. It performs better against grease, oil, and chemicals than TPO, making it well-suited for restaurants, manufacturing operations, and other businesses where these substances may be present.
Like TPO, PVC membranes are heat-welded for strong protection against water intrusion. They also handle foot traffic well, making them a good choice for buildings with rooftop equipment that requires regular maintenance.
PVC roofing systems can also be reflective, increasing energy efficiency and helping lower summer cooling costs. However, PVC roofs are more expensive than TPO roofs, and they’re less environmentally friendly too. Nevertheless, PVC roofing systems are among the longest-lasting.
Best For: Restaurants, high-heat areas, and industrial facilities
3. EPDM Roofing Systems
Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a black rubber membrane that has been widely used for flat commercial roofs for decades. Over time, it has earned a reputation for being consistent and long-lasting, with some roofs remaining in good condition for 30 years or more.
EPDM performs well in both hot and cold conditions, making it well-suited to our seasonal climate. Its flexibility is one of its greatest strengths because it expands and contracts with temperature changes without cracking or growing brittle, which is critical with the area’s freeze-thaw cycles.
While traditional EPDM absorbs heat due to its darker color, modern options include reflective coatings for increased energy efficiency. However, its seams may not perform as well against water and wind as heat-welded options like TPO or PVC.
Best For: Large, flat roofs and budget-conscious businesses
4. Asphaltic Roofing Systems
Asphaltic roofing systems, including modified bitumen, consist of layers of asphalt-based materials reinforced with fiberglass or polyester for a tough, waterproof surface. They’re especially useful for buildings with low-slope roofs.
In Northeast Ohio, asphaltic systems perform well during winter because they remain flexible enough to handle freezing temperatures without cracking. But unfortunately, they aren’t as energy efficient as reflective TPO or PVC.
Another benefit of this roofing type is its repairability. If damage occurs, asphaltic roofs can often be patched without needing a full replacement. Still, they are on the lower end of the roofing lifespan chart, lasting an average of 15 to 20 years.
Best For: Roofs with high foot traffic and businesses with limited budgets
5. Liquid-Applied Roofing Systems
Liquid-applied roofing systems rely on a liquid roof coating to cure into a seamless, waterproof surface. These systems are great for roofs with complex shapes, multiple penetrations, or areas that are difficult to cover with traditional materials. Once cured, the membrane forms a continuous barrier that resists leaks and weather damage.
Liquid-applied roofing can sometimes be used to repair or waterproof existing roofs, extending their lifespan without the cost of a full tear-off and replacement.
Best For: Roofs with multiple penetrations or complex shapes
The best type of GAF roofing system for your structure depends on the design, your environment, and needs. You’ll also want to consider your budget for the roof, as well as the roof’s expected stress load to ensure you choose a roofing system that will last.
Key Components of GAF Commercial Roofing Systems
A commercial roof is a layered system in which each layer plays a critical role in protecting the building. Thankfully, GAF engineers products for each step of the way to make the project easier.
Insultation
Proper roof insulation is essential in Northeast Ohio, where temperatures swing from one extreme to the other throughout the year. GAF roof systems use high-performance insulation to help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating costs in the summer and cooling costs in the winter.
Insulation also protects the roofing membrane by minimizing thermal movement and reducing wear over time. This is especially important with our climate’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Fasteners and Plates
Fasteners and plates secure the roofing system to the structure. GAF designs these components to resist corrosion and maintain their strength even under harsh weather conditions. This is vital in Ohio, where rain, ice, and snow wear on materials year-round and wind swoops in to test it.
Adhesives and Sealants
Adhesives and sealants ensure membranes stay in place and seams stay watertight. GAF’s adhesives and sealants are engineered to stay flexible yet strong, even as temperatures fluctuate, preventing cracks and leaks. Inferior adhesives and sealants turn brittle in extreme cold, something Ohio gets plenty of.
Perimeter Edge Metal
The corners of the roof are the most vulnerable points to wind and rain. Perimeter edge metal reinforces these sections against water intrusion and wind uplift.
Flashing and Accessories
Flashing seals the areas around roof membrane penetrations, like vents, skylights, and HVAC units. These sites are common sources of leaks if not properly managed. GAF’s flashing and accessory products are engineered to integrate seamlessly with their roofing systems.
Installation Methods
Proper installation matters just as much as the quality of the roofing materials. Selecting the right installation for your structure’s needs is critical for long-term success.
Mechanically Attached
Mechanically attached GAF systems use fasteners and plates to secure the membrane. Speed of installation and reduced labor costs make it one of the most popular choices for large commercial buildings. These systems also have high wind-uplift resistance and are compatible with a variety of structural designs. Unlike adhered systems, there is no curing or chemical fumes to worry about.
Fully Adhered
Fully adhered GAF roofs bond the membrane to the substrate with adhesive for a smooth surface with excellent wind resistance. The bonded layer also acts as an additional barrier against heat loss during colder weather. Precise application techniques and curing time can add to the project schedule and cost, however. Adhesives can also have an odor during application.
Ballasted Systems
Ballasted systems use stones or pavers to hold the membrane in place, without using adhesives or fasteners, for faster, cheaper installation. The stones or pavers protect the underlying membrane from the stress of UV radiation, foot traffic, and hail, extending the life of your roof. Ballasted systems aren’t as common today, but can be used on certain flat roofs.
An experienced commercial roofing company can help you select the right installation method for your structure, needs, and the particular demands of your location.
Choosing the Right GAF Commercial Roofing System
Selecting the best GAF roofing system for your commercial property boils down to your building’s needs. Your budget, the roof’s design, and the building’s structural requirements all play a role in determining which roof best meets your long-term goals.
Budget
Typically, EPDM and asphaltic will be the most budget-friendly GAF roofing systems. The most expensive is PVC.
Roof Design
Liquid-applied systems are best for roofs with intricate shapes or multiple penetrations
Waterproofing
Liquid-applied, PVC, and TPO offer the most water resistance. EPDM and asphaltic offer moisture protection, but it isn’t as seamless.
Longevity
PVC lasts the longest, up to 30 years with proper maintenance and installation, while asphaltic and liquid-applied systems may last as little as 15 years.
Chemical Resistance
PVC excels in resisting grease, oil, and certain chemicals. EPDM and TPO offer some resistance, but certain chemicals and oils can damage them. Asphalt systems aren’t chemical-friendly, while liquid-applied systems have varying chemical resistance.
Wind Resistance
PVC, TPO, and liquid-applied systems perform best against wind. EPDM and asphalt can have weak points at the seams.
Energy Efficiency
Liquid-applied and TPO systems aid in energy efficiency the most. Black EPDM and asphaltic systems help the least.
Durability to Foot Traffic
PVC, asphaltic, and liquid-applied roofs perform best in frequent foot traffic. TPO and EPDM aren’t quite as durable.
Working with an experienced commercial roofing company like DM Roofing, Siding, and Windows can help pinpoint the right roof for your needs.
FAQ: GAF Commercial Roof Systems in Northeast Ohio
GAF offers a range of commercial roof systems that better fit some properties than others, which naturally raises questions. We’ve gathered the most common ones and answered them for you below.
What are GAF commercial roof systems?
GAF commercial roof systems are a complete roofing solution of membranes, insulation, adhesives, and accessories, designed to work together for maximum durability and performance. They are specifically engineered for the unique needs of commercial spaces like office buildings, warehouses, and restaurants.
Are GAF roofing systems a good choice for Northeast Ohio?
Yes. GAF roofing systems are designed to handle a range of weather conditions, including the snow, rain, and wind our region experiences throughout the year. Different roofing systems perform better against certain stressors, however. Be sure to research your area’s specific demands, such as wind protection.
What types of GAF commercial roofing systems are available?
GAF offers TPO, PVC, EPDM, asphaltic, and liquid-applied systems.
How long does a GAF commercial roof last?
The lifespan of a GAF commercial roof depends on the particular system, the quality of its installation, and the maintenance performed. Annual roof inspections, along with routine checks after storms, are critical for maximizing its lifespan.
Generally:
- TPO lasts 20 to 25 years
- PVC lasts 20 to 30 years
- EPDM lasts 25 to 30 years
- Asphaltic lasts 15 to 20 years
- Liquid-Applied lasts 15 to 30 years
DM Roofing, Siding & Windows GAF Commercial Roof System
For Northeast Ohio property owners, working with an experienced installer like DM Roofing, Siding & Windows ensures your GAF commercial roof is properly installed and tailored to your unique property.
Looking to upgrade your commercial roof? Contact us today for a free consultation.
