​​Commercial roofs come in a variety of materials which are decided by the make up of the building especially the steepness of the roof slope, and other factors like weather conditions, e.g., higher heat, extreme cold, or whether a surface needs to stand up to high foot traffic.

Single Ply Roofing
These roofing systems utilize PVC, TPO, and EPDM. They are extremely flexible, robust materials selected by many building owners because they resist cracking, peeling, and other types of weathering.
Their primary characteristic is that they are manufactored to be installed in a single layer. The two main categories existing within the single-ply roofing industry are – thermoset membranes and thermoplastic membranes.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
This material is more commonly found on lower sloped roofs in the Northern States and consists of reinforced roof sheets that have heat-welded seams and they are highly heat reflective. TPO, being a single-ply membrane, is typically composed of ethylene-polypropylene, polypropylene and rubber that has been polymerized.
TPO is member of the thermoplastic membrane family and comes in a host of colors, although the most popular colors are tan, grey, and white. The membrane can be laid down using several methods including, adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted polypropylene. 

PVC (PolyVinyl Chloride)
PVC roofing material is made up of two layers of PVC in additional to a polyester reinforcement scrim between. The top ply features an additive which makes the membrane UV resistant. The bottom ply is usually darker and has imbedded plasticizers for added flexibility which makes installation easier.
More benefits of a PVC membrane include longevity, durability, and fire resistance. PVC can also be welded together which means it can be fastened to an adjoining sheet to make it watertight.

EPDM Roofing (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
So what is EPDM roofing? These letters stand for “ethylene propylene diene monomer,” which is a hard-to-pronounce chemical compound that is famous for its toughness and elasticity. EPDM roofing includes a material that has an uncanny ability to deflect the constant bombing of ultraviolet light and all of the sun’s harmful rays.
It is one of the most applied commercial roofing materials currently used, EPDM rubber roofing is even more desirable because it combines affordability with resilient strength. The EPDM roofing membrane is a kind of synthetic rubber comprised of natural gas and oil.

Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems 
Modified bitumen roofing combines asphalt material and a unique chemical polymer offering flexibility and high temperature resistance. It can be applied in many layers, and in several ways (id. est.- hot mopped asphalt, self-adhesive sheets, cold-applied or torch-applied adhesives), in both cold and hot temperatures, making it a viable consideration for installation throughout the year.
The seams are combined with heat to form a secure bond.  They are rated against fire, wind, and also hail which means they resist damage even during a violent storm.

Built-Up Roofing Systems
Probably the oldest roofing system still in existence, the built-up roofing system consists of 3 to 5 layers of material for enhanced protection. Especially in extreme weather conditions with varying ranges of low and high temperatures.
Affectionately called BUR for short, built-up roofing has been in existence exceeding 100 years.

Liquid Applied Roofing
A liquid applied roof membrane is fastened in place with a resin and a reinforcing polyester. It boasts superior waterproofing capabilities since it is able to penetrate those hard to reach areas. It is sprayed on, or it is roller applied, and usually in two separate coats.
A liquid roof option, because of the way it is applied, does not create invasive disturbances nor emit dangerous or strong odors, making it a good choice for application when businesses need to stay open.


Roof Coating Systems
A fully adhered coating consisting of a fluid-spray-applied membrane. It can be stretched and returned to its original shape. There are many kinds of roof coatings, but the most applied include silicone and acrylic. It is best suited for metal roofs, and the coatings can help cool down the buildings, keep down energy consumption, provide protection against leaks, and extend the longevity of a commercial roof.

Of Course.
Asphalt shingle roofing, tile roofing, metal roofing, and others typically used in residential applications can be used for structures such as churches, universities, store front businesses or strip malls where a visible roof is part of the decor of the structure.

Commercial Roofing Installation Costs
​3 Essential Aspects of Commercial Roofing:
Roof Pricing- Commercial Roofing Installation cost depends mainly on the material pricing, the labour hours, and the level of difficulty.  Installation methods for a commercial roof can vary greatly. It is recommended to hire a reputable commercial roofing contractor who can complete the work on a timely basis, remain in budget, and work on your time table.
Roof Inspection- A comprehensive ​commercial roofing system inspection includes examining all possible problem areas such as the roof membranes, ventilation, the deck, flashing, the downspouts, guttering, and drainage. Accomplishing this will help stop potential roof deterioration, identify possible issues in advance, and prevent costly future repairs.
 Maintenance of Commercial Roofs- Responsible maintenance is important to lengthening the health of a commercial roof. This includes the clearing of debris, repairing any leaks, tears or water damage, in addition, fixing the flashing and HVAC systems, and keeping roofing material in top condition.