When it comes to residential roofing, you might have heard stories that there are metal roofs lasting more than 70-80 years and natural slate roofs that have been around since the start of the industrial revolution. While some of these stories might be true, the life expectancy for most commercial roofing systems might be very different.
Knowledgeable Dallas commercial roofing contractors will tell you that there are many factors contributing to why commercial roofs last somewhat less than most sloped residential roofing systems. Their construction is one of them, as the flat surface is more prone to being impacted harder by hail and precipitation, leading to punctures, leaks and pooling issues that can greatly diminish the roof’s expected lifespan.
Most commercial roofing systems are rated to last about 20 years on average, although some might last longer. PVC, TPO and EPDM roofing all last about 20 to 35 years, with EPDM being considered as one of the more resilient and durable of the three. More durable is metal, which can last for up to 45 years. Surprisingly, good quality asphalt roofs, which are still some of the less durable roofing systems in the residential roofing sector, are able to last more than either EPDM or TPO, with a projected lifespan of 20 to 40 years.