When considering what type of commercial roof to choose for your building in Pittsburgh, it’s important to balance durability, cost, and maintenance. Many traditional roofing systems—such as built-up roofing, TPO, or metal—offer distinct benefits but come with challenges like high installation costs or extensive upkeep. Roof coatings, however, provide an affordable, effective, and long-lasting solution that complements nearly any existing roofing system.
At MHI Roofing, we specialize in commercial roof coatings, helping Pittsburgh businesses extend the lifespan of their roofs, improve energy efficiency, and save on maintenance costs.
Why Roof Coatings Are an Excellent Solution
Roof coatings are a seamless, liquid-applied protective layer that restores and reinforces existing roofing systems. They’re designed to work with various roof types, offering an economical alternative to full roof replacement. Here’s how they stack up when comparing commercial roof types.
Built-Up Roofing and Modified Bitumen Roofs
Built-up roofing (BUR) and modified bitumen systems have been industry staples for decades. While these systems offer durability and strong waterproofing, they are prone to aging, cracking, and UV damage over time.
How Roof Coatings Help
A high-quality roof coating can restore BUR or modified bitumen systems by:
- Sealing cracks and preventing leaks
- Providing UV protection to reduce material degradation
- Extending the roof’s lifespan without costly tear-offs
Roof coatings eliminate the need for full replacement, saving business owners time and money.
Single-Ply Membranes: EPDM and TPO
Single-ply roofing systems like EPDM and TPO are known for their flexibility and energy efficiency. However, over time, they can suffer from punctures, seam failures, and reduced reflectivity due to dirt and aging.
How Roof Coatings Enhance Performance
Roof coatings restore the functionality of single-ply systems by:
- Reinforcing seams to prevent leaks
- Creating a reflective surface to reduce cooling costs
- Resisting punctures and environmental wear
Coatings also improve energy efficiency, which is especially valuable in Pittsburgh’s mixed climate.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are prized for their longevity and strength, but they can develop issues like rust, corrosion, and thermal expansion over time. These issues often lead to leaks and higher maintenance costs.
How Roof Coatings Protect Metal Roofs
Roof coatings are an ideal solution for aging metal roofs, offering:
- Rust prevention and corrosion resistance
- Seam and fastener reinforcement to prevent water infiltration
- Reflectivity that reduces thermal expansion and energy costs
A properly applied roof coating can extend the life of a metal roof by decades, making it an excellent investment for businesses.
The Unique Benefits of Roof Coatings
Roof coatings offer distinct advantages that make them a preferred solution for Pittsburgh businesses.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Replacement
Rather than removing and replacing your existing roof, a coating restores and protects the structure at a fraction of the cost. This approach minimizes waste and reduces labor expenses, making it a budget-friendly option for property owners.
Energy Efficiency
Many roof coatings are designed to reflect sunlight, reducing the heat absorbed by the building. This can lead to significant savings on cooling costs, especially during Pittsburgh’s humid summers.
Seamless and Waterproof
Roof coatings create a seamless, watertight layer that prevents leaks and resists standing water. This is especially valuable for flat or low-slope roofs, where water drainage is a common concern.
Minimal Disruption
Coating applications are quick and cause minimal disruption to your business operations. Unlike full roof replacements, there’s no need for heavy equipment or extensive downtime.
Sustainable Solution
Roof coatings are an environmentally friendly choice, as they reduce the need for roof replacement and the associated waste. Reflective coatings can also help lower your building’s carbon footprint by improving energy efficiency.
How Pittsburgh’s Climate Makes Roof Coatings Ideal
Pittsburgh’s weather conditions—heavy snow, frequent rain, and temperature fluctuations—pose significant challenges for commercial roofs. Roof coatings are specifically designed to withstand these elements, providing:
- Flexibility to handle freeze-thaw cycles
- UV resistance to prevent degradation in the summer
- Waterproofing to protect against rain and snow
These properties make roof coatings a smart investment for Pittsburgh businesses looking to extend the life of their commercial roofs.
Why Choose MHI Roofing for Roof Coatings
At MHI Roofing, we understand that every commercial roof is unique. Our team specializes in applying roof coatings that provide long-lasting protection and performance for Pittsburgh businesses.
Here’s why we’re the right choice for your roof coating needs:
- Over 42 years of experience in commercial and residential roofing
- Industry-leading warranties for peace of mind
- Free 20-point inspections to assess your roof’s condition and recommend the best coating solutions
- Expertise in addressing Pittsburgh’s specific roofing challenges
We focus on delivering quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction in every project we undertake.
Take the First Step Toward a Better Roof
If you’re comparing commercial roof types and considering what type of commercial roof to choose for your Pittsburgh business, roof coatings offer a versatile, cost-effective solution. At MHI Roofing, we’re ready to help you protect your investment and improve your building’s performance.
Call us today at 412-831-9991 or email info@mhiur.com to schedule your free inspection. Let’s discuss how a roof coating can extend the life of your roof and provide long-lasting protection for your business.