7 Types Of Commercial Roofing Systems Explained (Pros + Cons)

We Are Experienced in Many Commercial Roof Types, Techniques and Materials

Commercial roofing can get confusing because it can be described by roof type on the building such as a flat roofs, low slope, or shed. Other times, roofing is described by the installation technique itself, like built-up roofing (also known as BUR) or standing-seam roofing and PVC roofing. Roofing can also (most commonly) be described by the installation materials.

Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of 7 common commercial roofing systems types.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

First, let’s cover the basics of Modified Bitumen Roofing, or MB for short is comprised of asphalt and works best for buildings that have a low slope or “flat” roofing deck and structure.

Pros

One positive about this option is that they have a proven record of success since they gained popularity in the mid-1970s. Another strength is their five-layer structure that provides strong protection against leaks, heat, tears, and more.

These structures include:

1. Insulation, which provides temperature stability for the building.

2. Modified base sheets.

3. Modified bitumen membranes. These sheets are manufactured at the factory and are typically reinforced with materials like fiberglass or polyester.

4. Adhesive that serves as a waterproofing function.

5. Surfacing for protection against UV rays and other elements from nature.

In addition to its five-layer strength, bitumen roof systems like MB offer competitive pricing against other types of commercial roofing material. They’re typically installed in rolls, that require a torch to heat up and seal the seams.

Cons

Now for the cons. While MB is a popular choice for all the reasons above, its protective surface layers can’t always stop water from coming through. This depends heavily on a quality installation that includes a proper drainage system. During and after installation, there is often a smell associated with an MB roof, unlike others. Additionally, in comparison to other roofing systems, modified bitumen roofing’s life expectancy is shorter at just 10-20 years.

Metal Roofing

While often used interchangeably, a metal roof is not typically made from tin or stainless steel. Instead, the most common component is galvanized steel, which occurs when ordinary steel gets a bath in molten zinc.

Pros

Long life is one of the biggest pros of a metal roof. While other options may last 10-20 years, a metal roof frequently comes with a warranty for 30 to 50 years and survives even longer than that. When installed on a sloped roof, metal roofing is also extremely energy efficient, saving costs and lowering heat gain during seasons of sunshine and heat.

Metal roofing systems are considered to be a much more sustainable choice than traditional roofing since most include recycled materials and can be recycled upon replacement. Additionally, today’s metal roofs offer a variety of stylish options, from zinc and aluminum to copper and everything in between.

Cons

Metal roofing has a few downsides and the biggest is cost. The initial investment can be up to ten times more than traditional tar and shingles, but the installation costs can be more as well. A qualified roofing contractor is required to install these roofs.

While its beautiful appearance and reflective properties are one of the pros of metal roofing, the same roof can be easily damaged during a hail storm and is known for being noisier than alternatives.

EPDM Roofing

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (or EPDM) is sometimes referred to as rubber roofing because this roofing membrane material is black and flexible like a rubber inner tube. EPDM roofing can be installed on flat roofs and low-slope roofs.

The seams between EPDM sheets and the metal flashing are typically sealed with a special adhesive or solvents. EPDM is made up of a rubber material (single ply) that’s known as being versatile and resistant to ozone.

Pros

EPDM is a very cost-effective solution for commercial roofing projects. And it’s durability means that when properly installed, an EPDM roof can last more than 20 years. EPDM is also considered to be environmentally friendly and easy to install by a professional.

Cons

One of the questions to ask yourself when considering an EPDM roof is the importance of your aesthetic. This roofing option is utilitarian in look and doesn’t allow for much personalization. It also requires a professional and shouldn’t be attempted on your own.

While the rubber materials that go into an EPDM roof are durable, they’re not impervious to puncturing and may not survive well in the case of a severe storm where objects are slammed into the roof at high force.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) Roofing

Like EPDM roofing, TPO roofing is a single-membrane roofing system and is installed in large rolls. It can be installed using mechanical fasteners or with heat that fuses the seams together.

Pros

TPO is white in color and does a great job of reflecting the sun. This means TPO roofs are considered very energy efficient. They also are resistant to common problems like mold overgrowth or excessive dirt accumulation and stand up to most impacts well. It is also a cost-effective choice for many consumers.

Cons

Recent shifts by manufacturers require a knowledgeable contractor with extensive experience to help guide any decision. It is also important to know which manufacturer is staying current and has a proven product.

Additionally, if not installed properly, replacing fasteners can be costly and some TPO roof formulations offer only a ten-year warranty.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingle roofing is always a popular option that many commercial buildings, especially those with sloped roofs, trust. will always be popular.

Pros

This roofing option is one of the most affordable on the market. Asphalt shingles aren’t as long-lasting as alternative options (like metal or slate) but they deliver effective protection, often for 10-15 years. Asphalt shingles also come in many styles and colors, providing multiple options for business owners.

Cons

The biggest con for these shingles is their inability to survive in extreme weather conditions. They can fade in high heat over time, or experience damage if they’re installed in freezing weather. Dramatic weather changes back and forth can also cause damage.

Asphalt shingle roofing is also not considered to be environmentally friendly.

Liquid Roofing

This unique roof option is a great solution for many commercial roofing projects, even though it may be unfamiliar to many residential consumers.

Pros

This roofing material goes on in liquid form as the name suggests and that helps to eliminate common problems other roofing materials face, like leaking, cracking, and deterioration over time. Instead, a liquid roof is energy-efficient, long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and relatively inexpensive.

Cons

The biggest con of this list is the final end product. The application and material don’t allow for much design choice or style so if this aesthetic doesn’t appeal to you, a liquid roof may not be the right choice.

Green Roofs

Another unique option, green roofs aren’t for everyone but they have unique and aesthetically beautiful benefits.

Pros

These roofs are good for the environment and your building because they offer a layer of protection and absorb many natural elements that can impact other roof structures, such as rainfall and sun. A green roof also releases carbon dioxide into the environment and helps improve local air quality.

Cons

The costs of a green roof are more expensive and require a high level of ongoing maintenance. It’s also important to conduct a structural assessment before installation a green roof as the weight can be significantly different than traditional roofing options.

Expert Commercial Roofing Contractors

The expert roofers at Allstate Construction Roofing are trained and certified to work with many different types of commercial roofing systems in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Naples, Miami, Cape Coral, and nearby. We provide commercial roofing services like roof repair, maintenance, and roof replacement to ensure that your commercial building is properly protected.

Call us at 1-866-ROOF-NOW or send us an email to schedule an appointment today!