What are the Best Types of Commercial Roofing Materials?
TLDR:
Choosing the best commercial roofing depends on your building's needs. Here are top options:
TPO & PVC: Energy efficient single-ply membranes
EPDM: Durable and cost effective synthetic rubber
BUR & Modified Bitumen: Layered strength for flat roofs
Metal Roofing: Long-term performance and fire resistance
If you’re a building owner researching options for your next roofing project, you might be asking: What are the best types of commercial roofing materials?
Whether you’re working with a new construction or replacing an aging system, your choice of commercial roofing material can make a big difference in durability, cost, and energy efficiency.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top commercial roof types, including pros and cons of each system. We’ll also explain which materials work best for flat roofs, which are common on commercial buildings.
Why the Right Roofing Material Matters
Choosing the best commercial roofing material isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about how the roof performs over time. You’ll want to consider:
Weather resistance
Maintenance needs
Energy efficiency
Cost
How it fits your roof decking and building structure
Working with an experienced roofing contractor is key to making sure the system is properly installed and lasts for the long term.
1. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
TPO is one of the most popular types of commercial flat roofing materials today. It’s a single ply membrane that is heat-welded at the seams for durability and leak resistance.
Why choose TPO?
Highly energy efficient with a white reflective surface
Resistant to UV, chemicals, and punctures
Lightweight and easy to install
It’s a great choice for commercial roofing systems that need a balance of performance and affordability.
2. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
Often referred to as commercial rubber roofing material, EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane used widely on flat roofs.
Pros:
Proven durability (20–30 years)
Low cost and easy maintenance
Great for larger roof areas
While EPDM is durable, it typically comes in black, which can absorb heat. That said, white versions are available to improve energy efficiency.
3. PVC Roofing
PVC roof systems are another single ply membrane option with excellent strength and fire resistance.
Benefits:
Resistant to chemicals and grease—ideal for restaurants or industrial buildings
Naturally white, so it’s very energy efficient
Flexible and strong in harsh weather
PVC tends to be a bit pricier than TPO, but it offers added performance for specialty applications.
4. Built-Up Roofs (BUR)
Built-up roofs, or BUR systems, have been around for over a century. They consist of multiple layers of bitumen (asphalt) and reinforcing fabric.
Key features:
Excellent waterproofing
Strong and long-lasting
Adds insulation value to your roof
BUR systems are a trusted option among traditional commercial roofing material types, but they are heavier and more labor-intensive to install.
5. Modified Bitumen
This hybrid system combines the multi-layer approach of BUR with modern materials for better performance.
Why it works:
Durable and resistant to tears
Great for flat roofs with heavy foot traffic
Often includes reflective layers for energy efficiency
Modified bitumen is popular among commercial roof types that require toughness and flexibility.
6. Metal Roof System
When it comes to longevity, a metal roof system is hard to beat. These are often made of steel or aluminum and can be installed on sloped or low-slope roofs.
Pros:
Extremely durable—can last 40+ years
Fire-resistant and low maintenance
Reflects sunlight, helping to reduce cooling costs
Metal is one of the best commercial roofing materials if you want a long-term, eco-friendly solution.
7. Asphalt Shingles
Though not commonly used on large-scale flat roofs, asphalt shingles can be found on smaller commercial buildings with sloped roofs.
Advantages:
Budget-friendly
Easy to replace individual shingles
Readily available
While shingles are common in residential projects, they’re still a viable cost-effective option for certain commercial jobs.
Making the Right Choice for Your Building
There’s no single answer to what the best commercial roofing material is—it depends on your building’s structure, budget, and performance needs.
Here are some key considerations:
TPO or PVC if you want a reflective, energy efficient membrane
EPDM if you're looking for a proven, cost-effective rubber system
BUR or modified bitumen if you value durability and multi-layer protection
Metal roof systems if you want long-term performance with minimal maintenance
Asphalt shingles for small commercial roofing systems with slopes
Work with a Trusted Roofing Contractor
At Vision Roof Services, we help building owners choose and install the right system for their structure. Whether you need a modern single ply membrane, a durable built up roof, or a sleek metal roof system, we’ve got the tools and experience to get it done.
Our team ensures every roof we install meets industry standards and offers strong performance—today and into the future.
Ready to Choose the Best Roofing for Your Commercial Property?
Let’s talk. Contact Vision Roof Services for a free consultation and get expert advice on the best types of commercial roofing for your project.