Roof Types

Commercial Roofing Types and Materials

SBS Modified Bitumen Roof

SBS modified bitumen roofing can withstand both high and low temperatures due to polymer modification. A standard SBS modified bitumen roof system is a two-ply system applied in rolls that overlap the edge of the previous roll. SBS is often the more popular system, as the synthetic rubber additive increases the product’s flexibility.

Common Types

Benefits

High durability
Weather resistant
Easy to repair
Flexible

TPO Roofing System

TPO is short for “thermoplastic polyolefin.” TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane that offers excellent performance at a cost-effective price. TPO can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. The seams of the membrane are hot-air welded to form a strong waterproof bond between sheets.

Benefits

Durable — strong puncture-resistant material
Energy efficient
Resistant to chemicals: acid, salt, oil, etc.
Naturally fungal resistant

EPDM Roof System

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane. It is a reinforced rubber sheet with excellent mechanical and weathering properties. EPDM can be installed either fully adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted, with the seams of the roofing system sealed with liquid adhesives or specially formulated tape.

Benefits

Resistance to thermal shock, hail, and breakdown
Effective in most climates
No shattering in extreme cold
Ability to withstand damage from UV rays
Adaptive to structural movement
Can be recycled when re-roofing
Available in different thicknesses

PVC Roof System

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing is a single-ply roofing solution used on commercial or industrial roofs that are flat or low sloped. PVC is the third most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer. PVC membrane comes in rolls of various sizes and thicknesses. PVC roof membranes can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. The rolls are bound together at the seams through heat welding.

Benefits

Hot-air welded seams and durable
Resistant to strong winds
Strong, puncture-resistant material
UV resistant

Liquid Applied Coatings

The coatings can be applied over most traditional roofing materials, including felt, asphalt, bitumen, and concrete. Roof coatings extend the life of traditional roof systems and act as a protective membrane against physical damage, general wear and tear, and UV rays. The reflective characteristics can reflect heat and UV rays, which can lower summertime cooling costs.

Benefits

Cost effective
High performance
High resistance to extreme temperatures

Metal Roof System

Most metal roofs are made from corrugated galvanized steel — a steel sheet coated with zinc. Copper, aluminum, or stainless steel metal roofing applications come in a variety of colors. The benefits of metal roofing include longevity, durability, and heat resistance. Additionally, metal roofs can withstand high winds and are largely impact resistant. Metal is not permeable to water, which is important in rainy and snowy regions.

Benefits