Deciding to replace a roof involves weighing your options carefully. After all, it’s one of the most expensive investments that you can make on a building - and one of the most important. The wrong roof will result in leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs. When you are choosing a new system, consider the climate and weather conditions of your area, as well as your aesthetic preferences. To give you a better idea of what your options are, here are some details about the most common materials used for commercial roofs: 

 

Types of commercial roofing:

Metal roofing

Winnipeg experiences extreme weather conditions, from heavy snowfalls in the winter to violent rainstorms in the summer. For these environments, a metal roof is up for the task. This material is resistant to fluctuating temperatures. It’s both fireproof and impervious to insect damage or mildew.  Metal roofs can be made of a variety of materials, including galvanized steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, or stainless steel. Their durability allows them to last for up to 50 years. Highly customizable, metal roofs are offered in a range of colours, textures, and shapes. Winnipegers definitely appreciate that these systems can be easily installed all year-long, even during the winter! Better yet, they can be applied over an existing roof without the labour costs of having to remove the old material. Once it’s time for a replacement, the materials used in your metal system can be recycled.

 

Flat roofing

A modern choice that has gained popularity in recent years is a low-sloped or flat roof; their flat design makes it easy to install HVAC units or solar panels on top of them. The slight angle allows water to run off from the surface, preventing leaks and water damage. Installing a draining system allows for no build-up of snow and rain. Flat roofs can endure harsh conditions and are highly energy efficient. Unlike sloped roofs, a flat roof can be walked upon - this gives space to add features like a rooftop patio. When properly maintained, they can last over 20 years. This structure is an ideal choice for the eco-conscious consumer; you can even put a garden on your rooftop.

 

Tar & gravel

One option for a commercial roof is tar and gravel; it’s an affordable option with a long lifespan. This type of roofing system can last up to 40 years with the proper maintenance. It can provide solid protection against UV rays. The materials used are energy efficient, since the gravel will scatter and disperse light, keeping your home cool. This roofing option is a hardy one, and won’t require repairs that frequently. Its strength means that it's also safe to walk on. If you’re concerned with fires, you can take comfort  in knowing that gravel is a fire retardant, which will keep your home safer in the event of an emergency. For an economic and energy efficient option, consider a tar and gravel roof.


Building owners understand the importance of their roof system in the protection of the building and the people and assets within. It is important that your roof is designed and installed to last. We install and maintain all types of commercial roofing and waterproofing systems. Our installers are trained by the manufacturers in the latest waterproofing installation methods and certified to install their products.

Installed Systems:

Asphalt & Gravel (4-ply system)
Modified Bitumen SBS (2-ply system)
EPDM - Ethylene propylene diene monomer (Single-ply system)
TPO - Thermoplastic Polyolefin (Single-ply system)
PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride (Single-ply System)
Coatings – fluid applied membrane
Sloped roofing – metal and shingles

All our work comes with a 5-year RCAM workmanship (labour + material) warranty. We are COR certified and carry the appropriate liability insurance to ensure you are protected.

When it is time to upgrade your roofing system you have many options to consider. We will assist in this process by assessing your current roof system and give you options based on your budget, use of building and R-value required. There are financial incentives available through the MB Hydro Building Envelope Program to increase the insulation on your building.

For an estimate on your roofing project, or answers to your roofing questions, call Transcona Roofing today at 1-204-233-3716