The 5 Most Common Types of Commercial Roofs Explained

Your building’s roof affects everything, from how comfortable the interior stays to how much you will spend on operating costs. Not sure which option makes sense for your property? Our commercial roofing services can help you choose and install a solution that suits your building’s structure, your budget, and the hot and storm-prone climate of this part of Texas.

 

Commercial Roofing Options Explained

Each type of roof construction has specific features that can determine whether it’s suitable for your commercial properties.

Commercial flat roof construction

If you want a cost-efficient option that offers additional usable space, look no further than flat roofs. This extra space makes it convenient to install HVAC units and solar panels directly on the roof. You just have to ensure that there’s proper waterproofing, as this roof style is prone to water buildup.

Low-slope commercial construction

With a gentle incline, low-slope roofs allow water to drain more effectively. While they suit most commercial buildings, they are not compatible with all roofing materials. For instance, installing metal panels on a low slope can increase the risk of leaks without precise installation.

Steep slope commercial construction

While less common in commercial projects, steep slope roofs are often chosen when you value aesthetics. They can give your property a more traditional and polished look, making them a popular commercial building roof construction for hotels and high-end offices. Plus, they offer superior water drainage, helping your structure look good for many years.

 

Essential Factors in Picking the Right Commercial Roof

Durability and lifespan: Metal roofs are among the most durable of all commercial roof types, lasting anywhere from 40 to 70 years with proper care. Single-ply membranes like TPO or PVC also offer strong performance, typically lasting 20 to 30 years.

Weather resistance: Is your building constantly exposed to intense sunlight or heat? UV-resistant materials such as asphalt shingles or metal roofs won’t crack or fade easily.

Energy efficiency: Energy-efficient commercial roofs can significantly lower your energy bills. These systems reduce heat transfer and improve insulation, making them helpful in stabilizing indoor temperatures and reducing the workload on your HVAC unit.

Maintenance needs: You might find metal or asphalt shingles to be more affordable up front, but they may need more upkeep down the road compared to premium materials such as TPO or EPDM. Factors like roof size and slope, as well as accessibility, can also affect how often maintenance is needed.

Installation and repair costs: Installation and repair costs can directly impact your long-term budget and return on investment. Materials like single-ply membranes are easy to install, which keeps labor costs down. But high-end materials can also be a good investment because they often last longer and perform better, cutting down on energy bills and maintenance over time.

Building structure: The right roofing system should complement your property’s architectural design and load-bearing capacity. When you call our commercial roofing services, we can also account for your building’s drainage layout and occupancy type. By considering these structural details, our roofing company in Waco can ensure that your roof will perform safely and effectively for years to come.

 

5 Most Popular Commercial Roof Types

1. Single-ply roofing (TPO, PVC, and EPDM)

Single-ply roofing systems are known for being lightweight and easy to install. Plus, they’re durable. These synthetic polymer membranes come in various colors and materials, offering strong waterproof protection and flexibility. When paired with proper insulation, they deliver excellent thermal performance without the need for open flames during installation, making them a safer choice.

If your roof has a complex shape, single-ply membranes are an excellent choice because they’re applied in continuous sheets. This allows them to support design additions, like terraces and balconies, as well as eco-friendly green roofs.

2. Modified bitumen (rubber roofing)

Modified bitumen is an upgraded version of traditional built-up roofing. It combines asphalt with polymerized rubber or plastic and is reinforced with fiberglass or polyester mats, so you get a flexible, waterproof membrane that performs well on low-slope roofs.

Additionally, this material provides strong weather resistance and durability while maintaining elasticity, allowing it to handle temperature fluctuations without cracking.

3. Built-up roofing (hot tar roofing)

Built-up roofing or hot tar roofing has been used for decades on low-slope commercial buildings. This system involves applying multiple layers of molten asphalt or bitumen to create a seamless, waterproof surface. That’s why it offers excellent protection against water infiltration and UV exposure, and effectively resists thermal expansion or contraction.

Thinking of installing built-up roofing? Working with hot materials demands experience and precision, so be sure to choose commercial roofing services with specialized training and safety certifications. When applied correctly, built-up roofs provide exceptional strength and longevity, making them a proven solution for high-traffic or high-exposure commercial buildings.

4. Metal roofing (standing seam and screw-down systems)

Metal roofing is a favorite for its sleek appearance and design versatility. It’s available in a variety of colors and finishes to complement your commercial building, no matter the architectural style.

5. Asphalt shingles (upgraded shingles)

Looking for cost-effective commercial roofing that won’t compromise on aesthetics? Ask your commercial roofer about asphalt shingles. Made from fiberglass mats coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules, these upgraded shingles resist UV rays and come in a wide range of colors and textures that add to their visual appeal. Their layered installation creates a dimensional look that complements almost any building style.

 

Choose the Best Commercial Roof for Your Building

Consider your budget, building type, and local climate

Your budget and building design directly influence which roofing system makes the most sense. But don’t overlook your local climate. Choosing materials and construction methods that match your region’s weather can extend your roof’s lifespan and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Work with a licensed commercial roofing contractor

Quality commercial roofing services start with a licensed contractor who installs the right system for your building — someone honest and dependable who can recommend materials that fit your structure and climate, install them correctly, and back the job with a solid warranty. That kind of workmanship saves you from expensive fixes down the line.

Don’t settle for the cheapest option

While it may be tempting to choose the lowest bid, a cheaper roof can cost more in the long run if it fails prematurely or requires frequent maintenance. Investing in a high-quality roofing system pays off over time through energy savings and fewer repairs. By focusing on long-term performance, you can ensure that your commercial property remains safe and visually appealing down the road.

 

Conclusion

Contact Clark Roofing today to explore the best roofing options for your commercial property. Call 254-374-4477 for a free estimate and get started on a roofing system designed to perform for years to come. You can also count on our commercial roofing services to complete your steel metal buildings in Texas.