Commercial Flat Roofing

Does a Flat Roof Make Sense for your Business?

Although there are many different commercial roofing systems to choose from. Expert roofing contractors will use a variety of tools and techniques to complete each project, whether it be for an installation, repair or replacement. In most cases, there are three main commercial flat roofing materials that are commonly used on modern-day structures. Knowing what they are and how they function can help you decide which one to apply to your building.

The Three Main Material Types 

Below are the three most common types of single-ply materials for commercial flat roofing systems regularly installed by contractors around the United States:

EPDM

As the most popular option for many clients, EPDM stands for “ethylene propylene diene monomer.” It’s often referred to as “rubber,” although it’s more of a combination of durable materials which, when combined, create a water-tight seal on the roof. Having been around for more than four decades, this stuff can be found on contemporary structures of nearly all shapes, sizes and ages, plus it’s the same material used to make innertubes.

FACT: EPDM is produced in different thicknesses (or gauges), which typically include 45, 60 and 90 thousandths of an inch. The industry standard is 60 on most commercial projects. 

PROS:

  • Least expensive material option available currently
  • Easy to install with the use of anchors, adhesives and rollers
  • Weighs less than all other single-ply roofing materials
  • Sold in wide rolls for fewer seams

CONS:

  • Ultraviolet sun rays can compromise the adhesive
  • Shrinkage and brittleness can occur prematurely
  • Protective mats typically needed to prevent punctures
  • May drive up heating and cooling costs significantly

TPO

TPO stands for “thermoplastic polyolefin.” It’s not nearly as popular as EPDM but it’s still one of the most trusted commercial flat roofing materials in the construction industry. As a single-ply synthetic type of rubber, it’s actually a three-layered membrane. Its composure makes it somewhat difficult to install, although it’s relatively easy to maintain and can even be recycled when the structure is torn down or the roof needs replaced.

FACT: TPO only comes in two available thicknesses (or gauges) – 45 and 60 thousandths of an inch.

PROS:

  • Attractive appearance if installed correctly
  • Seams are heat welded to prevent separation
  • White surface reflects UV sun rays
  • May be covered under a manufacturer’s warranty

CONS:

  • Somewhat new roofing technology
  • May cost more to install and/or repair
  • Shrinkage and brittleness can compromise seams and flashing

Modified Bitumen

MB, or simply bitumen, is an asphalt-based membrane that can be applied to a flat roof just like the other materials mentioned above. The main difference, however, is in the overall appearance and durability of the material. Modified bitumen has been in use since the late 1960s, with a long track record of being durable, long-lasting and at least moderately attractive if installed properly.

FACT: Modified bitumen membranes can be combined to create a two or three-layer roofing system.

      PROS:

  • Extremely resilient to hot and cold temperatures
  • Thickest commercial flat roofing material available
  • Granular ceramics for UV sun ray protection
  • Heat-fused seams to prevent separation

      CONS:

  • Requires highly skilled roofing technicians for installation
  • May be the most expensive option depending on the contractor
  • Additional membrane layers increase the overall installation cost

Regardless of which option you choose, remember that surface prep may add to the cost of installation, repair and removal as well as prolong the project timeline.