Industrial Building Roofing Services | Knickerbocker Roofing and Paving

Industrial buildings and structures are designed for decades of operation, often under harsh conditions inside and out. They are constructed with high-strength, durable materials to prolong the useful life of the building and minimize damage from weather, heavy equipment, and constant use. Roofs on industrial buildings should be no different.

Knickerbocker Roofing has over a century of experience working with a variety of roof types and materials, and we bring that experience to each of our industrial roofing installations and repairs. We provide comprehensive roofing, sheet metal, and waterproofing services for customers throughout Chicago, Illinois, southwestern Wisconsin, and northwestern Indiana.

Learn more about why quality materials matter for industrial roof applications, and some common industrial roof types.

About Industrial Building Roofs

Industrial buildings often house commercial entities and businesses, but the structures themselves are usually quite different from typical commercial and retail ones. Industrial buildings and structures are frequently large and designed for heavy-duty use. Some common examples include:

Factories, foundries, mills, and other processing facilities
Manufacturing and assembly plants
Warehouses and industrial-scale storage facilities
Structures housing heavy equipment and industrial machinery

Any roof is an investment and should be durable, strong, and visually pleasing. However, commercial roofing may be more likely to prioritize aesthetics or a certain architectural style. In contrast, an industrial building roof installation usually values functionality and strength over appearance.

The Importance of Quality Industrial Roofing Material for Buildings

Unlike other types, industrial building roofs tend to exceed normal wear and tear. This is because in addition to providing protection from weather and external damage, industrial roofing must also stand up to strong machinery vibrations, chemical exposure, exhaust, and near-constant occupation and operations.

The better a material and roof type can hold up to these conditions, the longer it will last and the fewer repairs and less maintenance it will need. Investing in high-quality materials and an experienced roofing installer, like Knickerbocker, extends the useful life of the roof and extends the time between repairs and replacements.

Common Industrial Roofing Types

Many industrial buildings and structures have flat or very low to minimally sloped roofs. This makes them susceptible to damage and wear from things like UV light, heavy snow and rain, excessive hot and cold temperatures, wind, and ice. Fortunately, there are several types of roofs that are durable and protective for very flat roofing applications. Many of these can be used with equal success on pitched or other non-flat roof styles.

Common industrial roof types include:

1. Thermoplastic Polyolefin Roofing

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing is a single-ply membrane system. The material comes in sheets that are attached mechanically or adhered with adhesives. Made from recycled rubber mixed with fillers, this material reflects heat and works with many types of insulation, which can save on energy costs. It is a lightweight, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solution.

2. Thermoset Roof Membrane

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) roofing is a single-ply membrane thermoset material that incorporates recycled rubber, sawdust, and slate dust. It is inexpensive and has a long service life. While it can be susceptible to punctures, it is easy to repair. This material is available in black or white, in several widths from 7.5 ft. to 50 ft., and thicknesses of 45 or 60 mils.

3. Metal Roofs

Metal roofs resist dents, rust, fire, wind, and heavy snow. They can be made from several materials including corrugated galvanized steel, stone-coated steel, aluminum, copper, tin, and stainless steel. Hidden or exposed fastener systems are also available, adding a distinctive look.

4. Built-Up Roofing

Built-up roofs (BUR) are applied in layers of reinforcing felts or ply sheets and bitumen (typically) asphalt with a top layer of gravel. This kind of application can only be used with flat or nearly flat roofs to ensure smooth and even layers. BURs are waterproof, durable, and cost-effective.

5. Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen roofs are layered like a BUR; however, the material comes in roll form. Bitumen is a blend of petroleum and fiberglass or other strengthening material. Rolls of bitumen are heated and sheets are applied to the roof, then topped with gravel. This material is resistant to harsh weather conditions including cracking in cold temperatures. It is also durable and well-suited to foot traffic.

Quality Industrial Roofing Solutions by Knickerbocker Roofing

At Knickerbocker Roofing, our staff provides high-quality roofing materials and expert workmanship for industrial buildings and structures. We also offer emergency repair services and maintenance and inspection plans on a per-project, semi-annual, or annual basis.