Commercial Roof Types
Let's explore the top 9 Commercial Roof Types & Their Benefits.
ROOFING
Selecting an appropriate roofing system for a commercial building is crucial in ensuring the structure's performance and longevity. With the Midwest's hot, humid summers, heavy storms, and cold winters, the choice of roofing material becomes even more significant. Here, we explore nine common commercial roofing types, along with their strengths and weaknesses.
The 9 Types of Commercial Roofs Explained
1. Single-Ply
The Pros of Single-Ply Roofing
Single-ply roofing is a popular choice for commercial and industrial buildings, and for good reason. This roofing type offers several advantages that make it a practical and cost-effective option. Let's explore some of the key benefits of single-ply roofing.
Energy Efficiency: Single-ply roofing materials often come in reflective or white surfaces that can significantly reduce a building's cooling costs. These materials reflect sunlight, helping to maintain a more stable indoor temperature, which can result in energy savings.
Lightweight: Single-ply roofing is lightweight compared to many other roofing systems. This feature reduces the load on the building's structure, making it ideal for designs that can't support heavier roofing materials.
Installation Speed: Installing single-ply roofing is generally faster compared to other roofing systems. The sheets come in large rolls or sheets, which can be quickly and easily applied, reducing labor costs and minimizing disruption to building occupants.
Waterproofing: Single-ply roofing materials are excellent waterproofing agents. They create a seamless, watertight barrier over the roof that effectively prevents leaks and water damage.
Durability: These roofing materials are designed to withstand the elements and last for many years. They can resist UV radiation, ozone exposure, and extreme weather conditions, making them a long-lasting choice.
Ease of Maintenance: Maintaining single-ply roofing is relatively simple. Regular inspections and minor repairs can extend the roof's lifespan, ensuring it continues to perform effectively.
2. PVC
Benefits of PVC Roofing
Durability and Longevity
PVC roofing is renowned for its robust nature, capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and extreme temperatures. With proper maintenance, a PVC roof can last over 20 years.
Energy Efficiency
The reflective properties of PVC membranes reduce heat absorption, making them an energy-efficient option. This can lead to significant savings on cooling costs, especially in warmer climates.
Chemical Resistance
PVC roofing is resistant to various chemicals, making it an ideal choice for commercial facilities that may encounter chemical exposure, such as airports, restaurants, and manufacturing plants.
Fire Resistance
PVC membranes are naturally fire-resistant, providing an additional layer of safety for your building.
Eco-Friendly Options
Many PVC roofing systems are recyclable and can contribute to LEED credits, supporting environmentally conscious building practices.
3. TPO
One of the most compelling advantages of TPO roofing is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to other roofing materials, TPO offers a lower initial investment, making it an attractive option for those who need a budget-friendly solution without compromising on quality or performance.
Key Benefits of a TPO Roof
Affordability
Heat Reflection
TPO roofing is known for its excellent heat-reflective properties. The reflective surface of TPO membranes helps to reduce the building's heat gain, which can lead to significant energy savings, especially during hot summer months. This characteristic not only reduces cooling costs but also contributes to the overall comfort of the building's interior environment.
Damage Resistance
Durability is a hallmark of TPO roofing. The membrane is crafted to withstand a variety of environmental challenges, including wind, rain, and UV radiation. Its resistance to punctures, tears, and impacts ensures that it remains intact and effective over time, minimizing repair and maintenance costs.
Long Service Life
With proper installation and maintenance, TPO roofing can deliver a long service life, lasting up to 20-30 years. This longevity is a testament to its robust design and resilience, providing building owners with peace of mind and a reliable roofing solution.
4. EPDM
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer) is often referred to as the “original” single-ply membrane and is known to last up to 40 years. Like TPO, EPDM is manufactured in rolls of various widths and thicknesses.
EPDM is constructed from a rubbery material and has been considered a trustworthy option for years. EPDM roofing membrane has a proven track record of being a cost-effective, long-lasting, environmentally friendly option (100% recyclable).
Why Choose EPDM?
Durability: EPDM roofs are known for their long lifespan and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Flexibility: This material remains flexible even in low temperatures, reducing the risk of cracks and leaks.
Energy Efficiency: EPDM roofing reflects heat, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your building and potentially reducing energy costs.
Environmentally Friendly: Made from recycled materials, EPDM is an eco-friendly option for environmentally conscious businesses.
5. Built-Up Roof
Built-Up Roofing (often called “tar and gravel roofs”) has been used in the U.S. for over 100 years, making it one of the oldest and most proven commercial roofing systems.
A Built-Up Roof consists of multiple layers of asphalt (bitumen) alternated with reinforcing plies, finished with a gravel or mineral cap sheet. A common hybrid variation includes a modified bitumen cap sheet for additional flexibility and performance.
Pros of Built-Up Roofing:
Excellent waterproofing protection
Multiple layers provide redundancy and durability
Fire-resistant assemblies available
UV protection from gravel or mineral surface
Handles heavy foot traffic better than many membranes
Withstands harsh weather when installed and maintained properly
Expected lifespan: 20–30 years with proper installation and maintenance
6. Spray Foam
Whether you're embarking on a new construction project or dealing with a leaky roof that has troubled you for years, Goad Construction offers a revolutionary solution to meet your needs. Our spray foam roofing system provides a long-term, cost-effective answer that not only resolves existing issues but also saves you money in the long run.
What Is a Spray Foam Roof?
A spray foam roof is a unique roofing system that involves applying a mixture of liquid chemicals that expand into a foam once sprayed onto your roof. This foam hardens to form a solid, seamless surface that offers exceptional protection and insulation.
Key Benefits of Spray Foam Roofs
Durability: Spray foam roofs are known for their resilience and longevity. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain their integrity for decades when properly maintained.
Energy Efficiency: By providing excellent insulation, spray foam roofs help regulate the temperature inside your building, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling and thus lowering energy bills.
Leak Prevention: The seamless application of spray foam prevents water from seeping through joints or seams, effectively putting an end to persistent leaks.
Cost Savings: Although the initial cost may be higher than traditional roofing materials, the long-term savings on energy and maintenance make it a wise investment.
Environmentally Friendly: The insulation properties of spray foam reduce energy consumption, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.
7. Modified Bitumen
What Is A Modified Bitumen Roof?
A Modified bitumen roof is a type of asphalt-based roofing system that is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. It is a popular choice for commercial buildings due to its durability and ease of maintenance. The material combines traditional roofing with modern polymer technology, making it a reliable choice for various climates and structures.
Key Benefits of Modified Bitumen Roofing
Durability: Modified bitumen is known for its resilience against harsh weather conditions, including UV rays and heavy rain.
Flexibility: The addition of polymers allows the material to expand and contract without cracking, making it ideal for varying temperatures.
Ease of Repair: Damaged areas can be easily repaired with patches or additional layers.
Variety: Available in multiple colors and finishes to match aesthetic preferences.
The lifespan of a modified bitumen roof can range from 20 to 30 years, depending on factors like installation quality, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Regular inspections and timely repairs can extend its longevity.
8. Metal
What Metal Roofing Does for Your Commercial Properties
Metal roofs are built to last, but they do far more than just outlast alternative roofing materials. Consider these core benefits of commercial roofing for commercial buildings.
Longevity and Weather Resistance
Well-constructed metal roofs resist damage from weather, pests, and time. Steel and aluminum roofing panels can last over fifty years, easily triple the longevity of typical shingles. But what makes metal roofing even more durable is the seals, closures, and trim options that help transform panels into a seamless roof without gaps, leaks, or holes where moisture can reach through.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Modern seals on commercial metal roofing can provide supplemental insulation, preventing drafts and reducing your commercial property’s energy bill. You can also choose roofing panels that are colored to reflect away excess heat from the hot sun.
Aesthetic Versatility for Modern Commercial Design
Find the right style and aesthetic for your commercial property. Goad Construction carries an extensive array of roofing panels that can complement the unique architectural style of virtually any building.
9. Steep Slope
As a leading authority in steep slope roofing, Goad Construction is renowned for its unparalleled expertise, innovative solutions, and exceptional service. Our commitment to excellence ensures that we meet the unique challenges of steep slope roof projects with precision and care.
Steep slope roofs are a popular choice for many commercial buildings, admired for their aesthetic appeal and functionality. These roofs are not just about looks; they offer significant advantages that make them an ideal investment for owners, architects, general contractors, and roofing consultants.
Commercial steep slope roofs present a distinct set of challenges compared to their low-slope counterparts. These challenges necessitate specialized engineering, meticulous installation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This article delves into the complexities of steep slope roofs, underscores the importance of proper engineering and installation, and highlights how Goad Construction consistently delivers superior quality and service.
What is a steep slope roof?
Steep slope roofs are architectural elements characterized by a pitch greater than 3:12 (where for every 12 units of horizontal distance, the rise is at least three units). This steep angle allows for efficient shedding of rainwater and snow, reducing the risk of water pooling and damage and enhancing longevity.
Known for their aesthetic appeal and superior water-shedding properties, steep-slope roofs are found on churches, malls, commercial buildings, multi-unit residential properties, ski resorts, storage facilities, and restaurants. Unlike low-slope roofs, steep-sloped roofs often feature architectural elements such as gables, dormers, and intricate roof shapes, adding visual interest to the building’s exterior.
We understand that no business owner wants to be left in the dark about their investments, especially when it comes to something as crucial as your roofing system. At Goad Construction, we're committed to providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Contact us today to learn more about how Goad Construction can provide the roofing solutions you need. Let us give you the peace of mind that comes with having the right roof over your head.
We’re here to help guide you through your roofing research. Whether you have questions about materials, installation processes, or long-term care, our team is ready to assist.
Why Choose Us?
© 2026 Goad Construction, LLC . All Rights Reserved
Corporate Office
393 Cummings Rd
Caledonia, IL 61011