The Evolution of Commercial Roofing

Did You Know??

1. Ancient Beginnings: Commercial roofing dates back to 3,000 BCE in Mesopotamia with sun-dried clay tiles. Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans later used thatch, clay, and stone for public buildings.

2. Middle Ages: Sloped roofs with wooden shingles and slate tiles became popular in Europe, designed to handle rain and snow on castles and guild halls.

3. Industrial Revolution: The 19th century introduced metal roofing with corrugated iron, transforming factories and warehouses due to its durability and fire resistance.

4. 20th Century Modernization: Asphalt shingles and flat roofs gained popularity in the early 1900s. Bitumen-based Built-Up Roofs (BUR) became a staple for their waterproofing abilities.

5. 1960s-70s Innovation: Single-ply membranes like EPDM and PVC offered lightweight, durable options for flat roofs, improving weather resistance.

6. Today’s Green Roofing: Modern commercial roofs focus on sustainability with green roofs, solar panels, and cool roofs that reduce energy consumption.

Fun Fact: Ford’s Rouge Plant in Michigan features one of the world’s largest green roofs, spanning 10.4 acres to help manage stormwater and reduce energy costs.

From ancient clay tiles to eco-friendly solutions, commercial roofing has come a long way!?