Overview: What are the most common commercial flat roofing systems? What is the cost of each flat roofing system? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a flat roofing system?
We get it, there are a lot of roofing options for your commercial or industrial building. And each architect and contractor you spoke to swears by a particular system.
Well, if you're looking to sort through the bologna and make a more informed decision, take 5 minutes to keep reading.
Just as a heads up, Titan Applicators has an extensive portfolio in the commercial roofing, reroofing, and roof restoration market. What's the point? - We're constantly getting questions about the very questions that are answered below.
[Roof Replacement Vs. Roof Restoration]
What are the most common flat roofing systems?
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roofing - TPO is a single-ply membrane that is known for its durability, heat reflectivity, and resistance to UV rays and chemicals.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing - PVC is another popular single-ply membrane option that is known for its durability, heat weldability, and resistance to chemicals and UV rays.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing - EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane that is known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to UV rays, ozone, and extreme temperatures.
Modified Bitumen roofing - Modified Bitumen is a type of asphalt-based roofing that is reinforced with fiberglass or polyester and can be applied in a variety of ways, such as hot-mopped, cold-applied, or self-adhered.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing - High-density spray foam is a type of insulation and roofing system that is applied as a liquid, and then expands, hardens into a closed-cell foam, and then covered, typically by a roof coating.
Remember, not all commercial and industrial facilities are equal. The best commercial flat roofing system will depend on the specific needs of the building and the climate it is located in. A professional roofing contractor should be consulted to determine the best option for a particular building.
What is the average cost per square foot for commercial flat roofing systems?
Obviously, it can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the quality of the installation, the materials used, and the size of the roof. Nonetheless, these are the average cost per square foot for each of the flat roofing systems as of 2023:
- TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roofing: TPO roofs typically cost around $5.50 to $8.50 per square foot installed.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing: PVC roofs typically cost around $6.50 to $8.50 per square foot installed.
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing: EPDM roofs typically cost around $5.00 to $7.50 per square foot installed.
- Modified Bitumen roofing: Modified Bitumen roofs typically cost around $4.50 to $7.00 per square foot installed.
- Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing: SPF roofs typically cost around $6.00 to $9.00 per square foot installed.
These costs will vary depending on factors like: location, the quality of the roofing contractor, the type of warranty offered, the size of the roof, the number of rooftop penetrations, and accessibility. Get ahold of a professional roofing contractor near you to get accurate figures!
Advantages of the most common commercial flat roofing systems:
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roofing: TPO roofs are known for their durability, heat reflectivity, and resistance to chemicals. They are a popular and cost-effective option and due to the ease of installation. TPO is also a popular choice because it is a "green" roofing option.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing: PVC roofs are known for their durability, heat reflectivity, and resistance to chemicals. PVC is also considered a "green" roofing option, as it is made of thermoplastic material, which can be recycled.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing: EPDM roofs are common because they can be installed much cheaper than other systems.
Modified Bitumen roofing: Modified Bitumen roofs are known for their durability and resistance to UV rays and extreme temperatures.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing: SPF roofs are known for their high insulation value, seamless and monolithic barrier, versatility, and durability. They require less man-power and can be less disruptive to facility operations during the installation process.
Disadvantages of the most common commercial flat roofing systems:
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roofing: TPO roofs do not do well to prolonged Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure and can break down prematurely.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing: PVC roofs can become brittle in cold climate zones, compared to other roofing materials. They also have a limited color palette and may not look as attractive as other roofing options.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing: EPDM roofs can be affected by UV rays over time, which can lead to cracking or shrinking. Also, EPDM roofs are susceptible to punctures and tears and may not be as durable as other roofing materials in extreme weather conditions.
Modified Bitumen roofing: Modified Bitumen roofs are relatively heavy and can be more difficult to install than other roofing materials. They also require regular maintenance to prevent leaks and prolong their lifespan.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing: SPF roofs can be more expensive to install than some other roofing materials and require a skilled professional to apply it. They also require regular maintenance to prevent leaks and prolong their lifespan, and if not properly installed, can lead to moisture issues.
