Yes. While traditional TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) or EPDM (Rubber) roofs typically last 15–20 years before requiring significant repair or replacement, a Butler MR-24® Roof System has a documented life expectancy of 50+ years.
The difference lies in engineering: traditional roofs are static blankets that fail under environmental stress, whereas the MR-24® is a high-performance structural system designed to move with the building.
Comparing the MR-24® to Traditional Commercial Roofing
| Feature | Butler MR-24® Roof System | Traditional Membrane (TPO/EPDM) |
| Documented Lifespan | 50+ Years | 20 to 30 Years |
| Primary Seal | 360° Pittsburgh Double-Lock Seam | Glued, Taped, or Heat-Welded Seams |
| Fastener Style | Floating Clip | Penetrating Fasteners |
| Maintenance Need | Minimal (Standard inspections) | High (Vulnerable to punctures & seam splits) |
| Thermal Movement | Specifically engineered to float | Material stretches or stresses until it tears |
The Secret to Longevity: Managing Thermal Movement
In Ohio, the climate is a roof killer. Temperature swings of 40 degrees in a single day are common in Wooster and across Wayne County.
When a membrane roof (TPO or EPDM) gets hot, it expands. When it freezes, it contracts. Because these membranes are often pinned or glued directly to the substrate, this constant tugging causes fastener fatigue, alligatoring (cracking), and eventually, seam failure.
The Butler® Floating Advantage
The MR-24® system solves this with exclusive floating roof clips.
- The Mechanism: These clips allow the roof to move up to 2.5 inches in response to temperature changes without compromising the seal.
- The Result: The roof breathes with the Ohio weather, preventing the stress that causes leaks in other metal or membrane systems.
The 360-Degree Pittsburgh Double-Lock Seam
Most metal roofs use a snap-together or a simple 90-degree crimp. Butler uses the Pittsburgh Double-Lock Seam.
- Factory Precision: Panels are factory-punched to ensure perfect alignment.
- Mechanical Seaming: A specialized Roof Runner® machine field-rolls the seam a full 360 degrees.
- Watertight Integrity: This creates a monolithic steel surface. In independent tests, this seam remained watertight even when submerged under 10 inches of water for five days.
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability: A Green ROI
Choosing a Butler Roof through Freeman Building Systems isn’t just a maintenance win; it’s a financial one.
- High-Performance Insulation: Systems like the ThermaLiner™ can achieve R-values up to R-38.7, drastically reducing the energy bleed during harsh Ohio winters.
- Reflective Cool Roof Finishes: Butler’s fluoropolymer finishes meet EPA standards for solar reflectance. By reflecting heat away from the building, you can reduce summer cooling costs.
- Recyclable: At the end of its multi-decade lifespan, the steel is recyclable, unlike petroleum-based membranes that end up in Ohio landfills.
Why Local Expertise Matters: Freeman Building Systems
Based in Wooster, Ohio, Freeman Building Systems has installed countless square feet of Butler roofing for industry leaders. We understand that a roof isn’t just a cover; it’s a long-term asset that protects your inventory, your machinery, and your people.
Is your current roof costing you money?
Don’t wait for a ceiling stain to take action. From new construction to retrofitting an existing leaky roof, Freeman Building Systems provides the engineering expertise you need.
If you are looking into getting a standing seam metal roof in Ohio, reach out to us for our roofing services. Freeman Building Systems roofing projects include commercial roof replacement in Wooster and Northeastern Ohio.
From roofing installation to roofing maintenance and roof repair, we do a great job with great customer service. If you are looking for roofing contractors for commercial roofing projects, we should be your top choice.
Contact Freeman Building Systems for a Professional Roof Assessment.
Phone: 330-264-3424
Address: 580 Venture Blvd, Wooster, OH 44691
