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Top Commercial Roofing Materials: Which One is Best for Your Business?

Written by R.A. Curless Construction | Oct 2, 2024 3:51:51 PM

When it comes to protecting your business, a high-quality, durable roof is one of your most important investments. Whether you’re building a new facility or replacing an existing roof, choosing the right commercial roofing material is essential for ensuring longevity, performance, and energy efficiency. At RA Curless, we specialize in commercial roofing solutions for businesses across central Indiana. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top commercial roofing materials and help you decide which one is the best fit for your business.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO roofing has become one of the most popular choices for commercial buildings due to its balance of affordability, durability, and energy efficiency. TPO is a single-ply membrane that reflects UV rays, which helps to reduce cooling costs during Indiana's hot summers. This material is highly resistant to punctures, chemical exposure, and bacteria, making it ideal for many commercial applications.

Advantages of TPO:

  • Energy Efficiency: TPO’s reflective surface helps lower energy bills by keeping your building cooler.
  • Cost-Effective: TPO offers a strong balance between performance and cost, making it an economical choice.
  • Durability: Resistant to tears, punctures, and most weather conditions.
  • Flexibility: Works well for both flat and low-sloped roofs.

Best For:

Businesses that prioritize energy savings and need a durable yet cost-effective roofing solution. TPO is a great option for restaurants, retail buildings, and office spaces.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

EPDM roofing is a synthetic rubber membrane known for its excellent weather resistance, flexibility, and durability. This material has been used in commercial roofing for decades and is particularly effective in areas with extreme weather conditions, such as the fluctuating temperatures we experience here in central Indiana.

Advantages of EPDM:

  • Longevity: EPDM roofs can last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance.
  • Weather Resistance: Highly resistant to UV radiation, hail, and temperature extremes.
  • Low Maintenance: Once installed, EPDM requires minimal maintenance compared to other materials.
  • Cost-Effective: Like TPO, EPDM is a relatively affordable option for commercial roofing.

Best For:

Buildings that need a reliable, long-lasting roof to withstand Indiana’s seasonal temperature shifts. EPDM is ideal for warehouses, industrial buildings, and distribution centers.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC roofing is another single-ply membrane known for its strength and durability. What sets PVC apart is its exceptional resistance to chemicals, grease, and fire, making it an excellent choice for certain commercial industries, like restaurants or facilities that handle chemicals. PVC roofing is also highly reflective, which contributes to energy efficiency by reducing the heat absorbed by your building.

Advantages of PVC:

  • Chemical Resistance: Stands up to oils, grease, and other chemicals that can degrade other roofing materials.
  • Fire Resistance: PVC is naturally fire-resistant, offering an added layer of safety.
  • Durability: Highly resistant to punctures, wind, and weather-related damage.
  • Energy Efficiency: Like TPO, PVC roofing reflects sunlight and helps reduce cooling costs.

Best For:

Businesses that deal with chemicals, such as restaurants, food processing facilities, or manufacturing plants. It’s also great for companies seeking high durability and fire resistance.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has long been a popular option for commercial buildings due to its durability and longevity. Metal panels are extremely resistant to harsh weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rains, and even hail. Additionally, metal roofs can be coated with special finishes to improve energy efficiency by reflecting heat.

Advantages of Metal Roofing:

  • Longevity: Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, far outlasting many other commercial roofing options.
  • Durability: Resistant to fire, wind, and weather-related wear and tear.
  • Energy Efficiency: With reflective coatings, metal roofs can help keep your building cooler in the summer.
  • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep compared to other materials, saving long-term maintenance costs.

Best For:

Businesses that need a long-lasting and highly durable roofing solution. Metal roofing is ideal for agricultural buildings, warehouses, and industrial facilities that face harsh weather conditions or want to minimize long-term maintenance costs.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen roofing is an asphalt-based material commonly used in low-slope commercial roofs. It is typically installed in layers, providing a thick and durable surface. Modified bitumen offers strong resistance to foot traffic, making it a good option for buildings that may need rooftop access for equipment maintenance or other purposes.

Advantages of Modified Bitumen:

  • Durability: Designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and punctures.
  • Weather Resistance: Performs well in various weather conditions, including rain and wind.
  • Cost-Effective: Relatively affordable, especially for multi-layered systems.
  • Flexibility: Can be installed using different methods (torch-applied, hot-mopped, or cold-applied).

Best For:

Businesses that require regular roof access, such as apartment buildings or facilities with rooftop HVAC units. Modified bitumen is also suitable for budget-conscious companies that want a durable and cost-effective solution.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Built-up roofing (BUR) is one of the oldest and most reliable roofing systems for commercial properties. It consists of multiple layers of asphalt and tar that create a thick, durable barrier. BUR is especially effective at providing protection against water leaks, making it a top choice for flat or low-sloped roofs that experience standing water.

Advantages of BUR:

  • Water Resistance: BUR is excellent at preventing water infiltration, even on flat roofs.
  • Durability: The multiple layers provide extra protection and longevity.
  • Low Maintenance: Once installed, BUR requires little maintenance over its lifespan.
  • Fire Resistance: The thick layers of tar and gravel offer added fire resistance.

Best For:

Buildings with flat or low-sloped roofs that experience heavy rain or have drainage concerns. BUR is ideal for office buildings, shopping centers, and hospitals.

Which Roofing Material is Best for Your Business?

Selecting the right roofing material depends on several factors, including your building’s location, type of business, budget, and long-term goals. At RA Curless, we work closely with business owners across central Indiana to help them choose the best roofing solution for their needs.

Here are a few key questions to consider when deciding on a roofing material:

  • What is your budget? Some materials, like metal roofing, may have a higher upfront cost but offer long-term savings due to their durability.
  • What are the weather conditions? Central Indiana’s weather can be unpredictable, with hot summers and cold winters. Choosing a material that handles temperature extremes well is critical.
  • What is the lifespan of the material? If you want a roof that will last decades, options like metal roofing or EPDM may be your best bet.
  • Do you need energy efficiency? TPO, PVC, and metal roofing are all great options for businesses looking to reduce energy costs through reflective materials.

Conclusion: Trust RA Curless for Your Commercial Roofing Needs

At RA Curless, we’re committed to providing high-quality commercial roofing solutions that protect your business and help you save on energy costs. Whether you’re looking for a durable metal roof or an energy-efficient TPO system, our team of experts is here to guide you through the decision-making process and ensure a seamless installation.

Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you find the perfect roofing material for your commercial property in central Indiana.

Choosing the right commercial roofing material is a major decision, but with the guidance of RA Curless, you can be confident in your choice. Reach out to us to learn more about our roofing services and how we can help protect your business for years to come.