Roofing projects are expensive and take time to complete correctly. When something goes wrong, your tenants and customers feel it first. That’s why property managers and operations leaders need a commercial property roofing plan that starts with the right materials, roof, and timing. Smart roof planning means fewer surprises, less disruption, and more long-term value from every square foot.
Waiting until a problem occurs is the most expensive way to manage your roof. Emergency repairs for commercial properties often cost more, take longer, and shut down parts of your building while crews scramble to fix a preventable issue. That lost time affects tenant traffic, customer trust, and your bottom line. Worse, poor material choices or rushed patch jobs often mean repeat repairs and more business interruptions.
Avoid the chaos by understanding how Knights Roofing can provide your business with unique commercial roofing materials found across Edmonton-area businesses, and when your company should implement a maintenance schedule once your roofing project is completed.
Our team provides expert knowledge, care, and installation of commercial property roofs across the greater Edmonton area. We can help your business remain secure and ease any structural roofing burdens your building, tenants/employees, and your business face.
Your Roof Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All: 3 Things to Consider for Commercial Roof Maintenance
Every commercial property is built differently, meaning your commercial roofing maintenance solution needs to be unique to your property. Choosing the wrong commercial roofing material can lead to premature failure, skyrocketing repair costs, and a loss of tenant confidence. The right roofing system should be chosen based on how your building is used, how often the roof is accessed, your budget, and your long-term plans for the property. A thoughtful approach to commercial roofing renovation means not just evaluating the materials, but how these materials will help the infrastructure of your building overtime. Knights Roofing is here to help guide you through that process.
Before committing to a new commercial property roof upgrade, consider:
- Building use (retail, small industrial, large industrial, office tower)
- Roof design (flat, low-slope, steep-slope, architectural standing seam)
- Expected roof lifespan and durability
- Maintenance needs and foot traffic on the commercial roof
- Budget and long-term ROI
- Warranty and insurance compatibility
- Energy efficiency and utility savings for your commercial property
Knights Roofing works closely with operations and property managers to recommend the best roofing systems based on your building’s specific demands. Our team of expert Edmonton commercial roofing specialists can guide you towards the roofing materials your property needs for long-lasting structural integrity.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Materials for Your Commercial Property
Not all roofing systems are created equal, and not every option will suit your building. The materials you choose today affect how long your roof lasts, how much it costs to maintain, and how well it protects your investment. Each roofing material brings its advantages, from energy efficiency to foot traffic. Here’s what to know before you commit:
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is ideal for Edmonton’s climate and is commonly used on low-slope or architectural roofs. It offers a light, sturdy, strong, weather- and fire-resistant structure. Metal roofing systems come with protective coatings that help resist rust and damage, giving you an added layer of security against the elements. They last anywhere from 30 to 60 years and can often be retrofitted to extend their service life, making them a smart long-term investment for business owners seeking durability and lower lifecycle costs.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Also known as “tar and gravel” roofs, BUR systems are a classic solution for flat and low-slope commercial rooftops. They consist of alternating layers of insulation board, asphalt or tar, felt, and gravel. This multi-ply design creates a weather-resistant surface capable of withstanding high traffic and harsh climates. It’s customizable based on your budget—the more layers, the greater the protection. BUR is a trusted option for retail centres, office buildings, and multi-unit residential properties.
Membrane Roofing
Membrane roofing is a flexible option for flat and low-slope designs, installed as a single or double membrane layer over insulation. This category includes:
- SBS: Modified bitumen, known for strength and flexibility.
- EPDM: A rubber membrane that’s affordable and long-lasting, especially effective in colder climates.
- TPO: A lightweight, reflective, and cost-effective material ideal for reducing heat absorption and energy use.
Membrane systems are quick to install, easy to maintain, and highly customizable for energy savings and structural performance.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen is a two-ply system made by applying reinforced fabric soaked in bitumen directly to the roof deck. It’s a smart choice for buildings with heavy foot traffic, like condos and office towers. The layers offer excellent stability, weather resistance, and longevity. It’s been a reliable solution for Edmonton’s variable climate for decades and continues to deliver low-maintenance, high-durability protection.
Get Ahead with a Strategic Commercial Roofing Maintenance Schedule
Proactive property managers know their roof’s condition before it becomes a problem. Routine inspections and scheduled upkeep keep systems working and extend roof lifespan. A good maintenance schedule varies by material and roof design:
- Flat and Low-Slope Roofs: Inspect twice a year (spring and fall) and after major storms.
- Metal and Architectural Roofs: Inspect annually, with added attention to sealants and fasteners.
- High-Traffic Roofs (Apartments, Offices): Quarterly walk-throughs to check for wear.
Knights Roofing helps you stay on schedule with expert inspections, maintenance, and repair plans tailored to your building.
Secure Your Commercial Roof–And Everything Underneath It
Your commercial roof serves as the first line of defence against the elements, safeguarding not just the structural integrity of your building but also the valuable assets within. From critical equipment and inventory to the safety of employees and tenants, a well-maintained roof ensures uninterrupted operations and peace of mind. Neglecting regular seasonal commercial roof maintenance can lead to leaks, mold growth, and structural damage, resulting in costly repairs and potential health hazards. By prioritizing proactive roof care, you protect your investment and maintain the trust of those who rely on your facility.
Commercial Property Roofing Solutions Start with The Right Partner
Strategic commercial property roofing is about more than patching leaks—it’s about planning for your property’s long-term value and security. When you partner with Knights Roofing, you get more than just a contractor; you get a commercial roofing team that:
- Helps you choose the right materials for your building type and budget
- Builds a seasonal inspection and maintenance plan
- Completes repairs that are done right the first time
- Prevents leaks, damage, and insurance claim denials
Whether you manage one retail site or an industrial portfolio, our team is your commercial roofing ally.
Together, we’ll help you avoid costly surprises and build a roof that works as hard as you do. Don’t wait until it’s too late—request a commercial roof assessment quote from Knights Roofing today to find out how our experienced team can help you find the roof your business needs.