Businesses need high-quality roofing to protect their buildings from leaks and maintain energy efficiency. The most common commercial roofing materials used for businesses with flat roofs are TPO, EPDM, built-up roofing, and modified bitumen. Each offers advantages and disadvantages that you need to understand to make the best decision for your business.

1. Built-Up Roofing

Built-up roofing, or BUR, is one of the longest-standing roofing materials for flat and low-slope roofs. It has been in use for the past 100 years. Commercial roofers install layers of fabric, bitumen(asphalt), and aggregate to create a sturdy sealed roofing surface. There are two installation methods: hot and cold. Hot installation involves heating the material and melting them into one continuous surface. Cold installation utilizes adhesives to stick the layers together.

Built-up roofing can last 15-30 years. This may seem like a long time, but its cost-lifespan efficiency is lower than other commercial roofing materials. They're low maintenance but can cost you more in labor if the commercial roofing service uses the hot installation method.

2. Modified Bitumen

Bitumen is another name for asphalt. It's modified with polymers that give it flexibility and resistance to heat. Like built-up roofing, modified bitumen can be installed using heat to melt the layers together, or with adhesives.

Modified bitumen performs very well in cold weather, making it a perfect option for businesses in areas of the country with harsh winters. Unfortunately, it also lags behind other materials in terms of lifespan, lasting around 15-20 years/ Without an adequate drainage installation, modified bitumen is more susceptible to leaks than other roofing materials like TPO or EPDM.

3. TPO

TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin, is newer commercial roofing material. It falls under the umbrella of "single-ply" roofing, along with EPDM. Single-ply roofing uses flexible materials and covers the roof with only one layer. Don't worry, though; the materials are weatherproof, durable, and UV resistant just like BUR and modified bitumen.

TPO is a very popular option nowadays. It offers cheaper upfront costs due to the ease of installation. The flexible material means that TPO is much less susceptible to expansion and contraction caused by fluctuating temperatures. Its white color is excellent at repelling UV rays and keeping your business energy efficient. According to EESI, this increased efficiency translates well to photovoltaic solar panels, boosting their efficiency by 16%. TPO roofing lasts around 23 years on average, but can last up to 30 years depending on the frequency of maintenance and the climate.

4. EPDM

EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene methylene, is another single-ply membrane that has similar properties to TPO but comes in a darker color. The darker color makes it better for cooler climates with less sun exposure. The biggest advantage of EPDM roofing is its lifespan. EPDM can last 50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance.

EPDM has been in use for around 60 years and has a good track record. The biggest disadvantage with EPDM is that hot weather can cause shrinkage that creates tears and cracks in the membrane. Again, proper installation goes a long way in preventing this.

It's also important to schedule regular maintenance and inspections for your roof to prolong its life. Expert commercial roofing contractors can take a look and spot small problems before they get out of hand and cost you an arm and a leg.

We offer all four types of roofing materials at Crown Exteriors & Construction. Each material offers durability, weather and UV resistance, and can increase your building's energy efficiency. Instead of thinking about which one is the best, think about which one is the best for your business. The right choice will depend on the climate your business is in and the budget you have to work with.

If you are looking for a reputable commercial roofing company, look no further than Crown Exteriors & Construction. We have over a decade of experience installing, maintaining, and repairing commercial flat roofs for businesses in Champaign, IL and surrounding areas. Each member of our team is extensively trained and we use the best materials and equipment for the job. Call today or visit our website to schedule an appointment for a free estimate!