Choosing the Best Commercial Roofing Material for Your Property

Are you struggling to choose the perfect roofing material for your commercial property? Selecting the right commercial roofing material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a property owner. After all, it impacts not only the aesthetic appeal of your building but also its durability, energy efficiency, maintenance costs, and regulatory compliance.

In this blog, we will break down the most popular commercial roofing materials, compare their pros and cons, and provide expert tips to guide your decision. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what roofing option best fits your property’s unique needs—and as a bonus, we’ll offer you a free consultation with a trusted local roofing company.

Let’s dive in!

1. Overview of Key Commercial Roofing Materials

Commercial roofs come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its own advantages. Below are the most common types of roofing used in commercial buildings:

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

• Overview: TPO Roof is a single-ply roofing membrane made of synthetic rubber. It is known for being lightweight and reflective, which helps improve energy efficiency.
• Benefits: Highly energy-efficient, cost-effective, and easy to install.
• Drawbacks: Susceptible to damage from exposure to harsh UV rays over time.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

• Overview: A durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane that’s known for its long lifespan and low cost.
• Benefits: Resistant to extreme weather conditions, excellent for flat or low-slope roofs.
• Drawbacks: Typically requires more maintenance than some other materials.

Metal Roofing

• Overview: Metal roofs are made from steel, aluminum, or copper. They’re durable, long-lasting, and available in a variety of styles.
• Benefits: Exceptional durability, resistance to extreme weather, and high energy efficiency.
• Drawbacks: Higher upfront costs compared to other materials.

BUR (Built-Up Roofing)

• Overview: BUR systems involve multiple layers of asphalt and tar, providing reliable waterproofing.
• Benefits: Excellent protection against leaks, particularly in flat-roofed buildings.
• Drawbacks: Heavier, requiring more installation time and expertise.

Modified Bitumen

• Overview: A hybrid roofing system combining asphalt with rubber or plastic, typically applied in multiple layers.
• Benefits: Great for waterproofing and flexibility in installation.
• Drawbacks: May require more regular maintenance than other roofing options.

Visual Comparison Chart:

2. Durability and Lifespan Comparison

When considering roofing materials, the longevity of each option is key.

• TPO & EPDM: Both typically last 15–20 years when properly maintained. They are great for cost-conscious owners but require regular inspections to ensure long-term durability.
• Metal Roofing: The king of longevity—metal roofs can last over 50 years. They are resistant to extreme weather, such as heavy snow, rain, and hail. While they come with higher initial installation costs, the long lifespan makes them a cost-effective choice over time.
• BUR & Modified Bitumen: Both offer 20–30 years of protection but tend to require more maintenance to stay intact. They are ideal for flat roofs or low-slope buildings but are less energy-efficient than some newer options.

Factors That Affect Longevity:

• Climate: Extreme weather, such as heatwaves or ice storms, can wear down certain materials more quickly.
• Maintenance: Routine inspections and repairs are essential for extending the life of any roof.

3. Cost Analysis (Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings)

Choosing the cheapest roofing material may not always be the best decision in the long run. Let’s break down the cost factors:

Initial Costs:

• TPO: $3.00–$5.00 per square foot.
• EPDM: $4.00–$7.00 per square foot.
• Metal: $7.00–$12.00 per square foot.
• BUR: $5.00–$8.00 per square foot.
• Modified Bitumen: $4.50–$7.00 per square foot.

Long-Term Savings:

Investing in a more durable roofing option like metal roofing may cost more upfront, but the life cycle cost can be far lower due to its longer lifespan and minimal maintenance needs.

For example, a metal roof installed at $10,000 might require just a few minor repairs over 50 years, whereas a TPO roof might cost only $5,000 initially but could require repairs every 15–20 years, adding up to similar or higher long-term expenses.

4. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Energy-efficient roofs not only help save money but also reduce your building’s environmental footprint.

• TPO: Reflective properties help reduce cooling costs by reflecting sunlight, making it ideal for hotter climates.
• Metal Roofing: Highly reflective, offering excellent energy savings by reducing heat absorption.
• EPDM: While not as energy-efficient as TPO, newer versions of EPDM incorporate reflective coatings to improve performance.

Sustainable roofing options, such as green roofs (vegetative roofs) or solar roofs, are emerging as powerful solutions for reducing energy consumption and supporting environmental initiatives.

5. Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Installation Complexity:

• TPO and EPDM: Both are easier to install, requiring minimal downtime.
• Metal Roofing: While more durable, it is more complex to install, and proper expertise is needed.
• BUR: Due to multiple layers, installation can take longer and requires experienced professionals.

Maintenance:

• TPO & EPDM: Minimal maintenance, with annual inspections recommended.
• Metal Roofing: Requires occasional checks for rust or loose panels.
• BUR & Modified Bitumen: Higher maintenance, with more frequent inspections needed to address any wear on the layers.

6. Climate Suitability and Regional Factors

Different roofing materials perform better in certain climates:

• TPO: Performs excellently in hot climates due to its reflective properties.
• EPDM: Best for cold climates where its rubber-like properties help resist cracking.
• Metal: Ideal for all climates, with superior durability against snow, rain, and heat.

A regional map showing roofing preferences can help guide property owners to the best materials for their climate.

7. Case Studies of Successful Installations

Commercial Warehouse in Murfreesboro

A metal roofing system was installed, providing long-lasting durability, energy savings, and reduced maintenance costs for over 30 years.

Office Building in Franklin

An EPDM roof with a reflective coating led to reduced heating bills during the cold winters, offering both comfort and energy efficiency.

8. Regulatory Compliance and Building Codes

Every region has specific building codes that roofing materials must adhere to. It’s essential to work with a local roofing company familiar with local codes. Additionally, many energy-efficient materials, like TPO, comply with ENERGY STAR ratings.

9. Future Trends in Commercial Roofing Technology

The future of roofing is exciting, with new technologies that can extend roof life and improve building efficiency:

• Solar Roofs: Solar panels integrated into the roof to generate energy.
• Smart Roofs: Roofs with sensors that monitor wear, leaks, and temperature fluctuations.

These innovations can lead to long-term savings and make a property even more environmentally friendly.

10. Expert Insights from Roofing Professionals

Roofing professionals emphasize the importance of choosing materials based on both performance needs and budget. They also recommend regular inspections to catch issues early and maximize the lifespan of any roof.

Conclusion

Choosing the best commercial roofing material for your property isn’t just about finding the cheapest option—it’s about investing in the right material that offers durability, energy savings, and regulatory compliance. Whether you choose TPO, EPDM, metal, or another option, working with a trusted local roofing company ensures expert installation and ongoing support.

Contact us at +1 (615) 556-6598  today for a FREE roofing consultation and estimate!