Top view of group of large modern commercial transportation terminal roofs.

Commercial Roofs 101: An Overview of the 6 Most Popular Types

Commercial roofs come in a variety of different materials, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In order to make an informed decision about which type of roof is best for your needs, it is important to understand the different types that are available. 

This introductory guide will provide an overview of the six most popular types of commercial roofs: Single Ply Membrane, Seamless Elastomeric Coating, Asphalt Shingles, Metal Roofing, Modified Bitumen Roofing, or Tar and Gravel Built-Up Roofing.

Single-ply membranes are one of the most popular types of commercial roofing materials. They are made of a single layer of impermeable material, which makes them very durable and resistant to tears and leaks. Single-ply roofing membranes are also relatively lightweight, making them easy to install. Some of the most common types of single-ply membranes include PVC, TPO, and EPDM.

Pros:

  • Durable and resistant to tears and leaks
  • Lightweight and easy to install

Cons:

  • May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of roofing materials
  • Limited color options
TPO roofing system being installed on a flat roof with roofer using a seam heater on wheels
Single-ply membrane roofing installed correctly is one of the best commercial or industrial roofing systems on the the market.

Seamless elastomeric coatings are liquid-applied spray foam roofing. This unique type of commercial roof material is made up of a single layer of elastic material. The roofing foam forms a seamless elastomeric membrane as the roof coating is applied in liquid form using a spray gun. A resilient architectural membrane is formed that is very durable and resistant to tears and leaks.

Pros:

  • Durable and resistant to tears and leaks
  • Can be sprayed on in a single layer, making it very easy to apply
  • Many different colors available

Cons:

  • May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of roofing materials
  • Limited color options
White elastomeric roofing spray being applied by worker on Lake of the Ozarks commercial building.
Spray-on foam roof coatings are a great option to repair and protect low-sloped or flat roofs that are aging or leaking.

Another popular choice for commercial roofs, asphalt shingles are affordable and durable. While other types of shingles are available, customers typically choose 3-tab or architectural shingles that are made with asphalt. These shingles consist of felt paper or fiberglass coated with asphalt — a sticky, black liquid mixed with minerals to create a roofing material that is both waterproof and weatherproof. Asphalt shingles are often coated with a layer of mineral granules to give them a finished look and greater durability by protecting them from the sun’s UV rays.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Durable
  • Many different color options available

Cons:

  • May not last as long as more expensive commercial roofing systems
Roofer squaring up black asphalt roofing shingles.
Shingles are still a popular option for commercial roofs, especially on smaller buildings.

Metal roofs are used on many businesses and other commercial buildings. They are very durable and can last for many years with little to no maintenance. Metal commercial roofs are also resistant to fire, wind, and hail damage, making them a good option for buildings in areas that are prone to these types of weather events. There are a variety of different metal roofing options available, including steel, aluminum, and copper.

Pros:

  • Very durable and long-lasting
  • Resistant to fire, wind, and hail damage
  • Many different color and style options available

Cons:

  • Usually more expensive than other types of commercial roofing materials
  • Maintenance costs may be higher than other types of roofing materials
Architectural detail of metal roofing on commercial construction
This white roof is a combination of metal covered with a spray-on coating.

Modified Bitumen Roofing, often referred to as MB roofing, is a type of roofing material that is made up of asphalt and fiberglass. The asphalt is melted and combined with the fiberglass to create a material that is then used to cover the roof. MB roofing is often used on commercial buildings because it is durable and can withstand the wear and tear that comes with this type of use. MB roofing can also be installed in a variety of different ways, including ballasted, fully adhered, or mechanically attached.

Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Can be installed in a variety of ways

Cons:

  • More prone to leaks due to difficult installation
  • May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of roofing materials
  • Shorter life span than other commercial roofs
Flat roof bitumen felt

A modified bitumen roofing system on a commercial flat roof building in Europe

Tar and Gravel Built-Up Roofing has been a popular type of commercial roofing for more than a century. This type of roofing is made up of three or more layers of materials, including a layer of tar or asphalt, a layer of reinforcing fabric, and a layer of gravel. The layers are applied one on top of the other and then heated to create a waterproof seal.

Pros:

  • Very durable and long-lasting
  • Can be installed over many different types of surfaces
  • Many different color options available

Easy to repair

Cons:

  • May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of roofing materials
  • Adds a significant amount of weight to roofs
Asphalt and gravel built-up-roofing surface on a flat roof with with vents projecting upward.
Gravel and asphalt built-up roofing is still used on flat roofs.

As you can see, commercial roofs come in a variety of different materials, each with their own set of pros and cons. If you are in the market for a new commercial roofing system or need repairs on your current one, it is important to understand the different types available. 

Our expert commercial roofing contractors at Roof Lux can help you get a free roofing inspection and estimate. And we’ll work with you to find the best type of roof for your business. So, take the next step and give us a call today!

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