Using cover boards for commercial roofing solutions

Sometimes the most dynamic improvements happen under the surface. This includes the popular use of cover boards under commercial roofing solutions, notably flat-roof systems. Cover boards are often composite material boards that are layered over a roof surface for added protection. They were first used in commercial roofing with hot mopped and torch-applied asphalt roofs and are now industry-wide standards for flat-roof application.
There are several unique benefits that cover boards provide:
- Cover boards are energy-efficient – Cover boards are designed to be installed over roof joints. This helps insulate against thermal loss or conduction throughout the seasons.
- Cover boards help with wind and fire resistance – roofs with cover boards tend to score higher in wind and fire resistance testing.
- Cover boards extend the life-cycle of a commercial roof – Most roofs age out because of the wear and tear of foot traffic and weather elements. Cover boards give added strength and protection for your roof to achieve its maximum life expectancy.
Cover boards can also be reused or recycled by removing them from on top of thermal insulation. Reused cover boards can be applied over a new roofing solution on the same roof or recycled onto a new roofing solution. The ease of recycling a cover board is much more advantageous than replacing both the cover board and any thermal insulation underneath.
Cover board availability has skyrocketed over recent years with a wider variety of material and board thickness capable of being as little as 1/4″ thick. Some of the greatest variety is available in foam cover boards, including fan-folded polystyrene and high-density polyiso boards. Orient stranded boards (OSB) are gaining popularity for high-performance roofs scoring well on wind and hail resistance.
If you’re considering a new flat-roof solution, our R&A Contracting team can share more about the benefits of adding cover boards to your installation. Easier recycling and reusing, greater resistance to wind, fire, and hail, and a longer life-cycle for your roof are just part of the greater return on investment.