Commercial Roofing FAQ

Commercial roof systems are designed for periods of 10 to 30 years.  Building owners should know when their warranty expires so they can plan ahead of time to replace their roof.  If the warranty information is unknown,  a roofing professional can inspect and advise a building owner regarding replacement or repair options. 

Commercial single-ply membrane roof systems are designed to last between 10 to 30 years.  The age varies by system type, the thickness of the membrane, and other design components.  A roofing professional can design a system based on the specific needs of the building owner. 

Single-ply (membrane) roof systems are designed in a number of different ways depending on building–specific requirements.  Prices range from just a couple of dollars per square foot to upwards of $20 per square foot depending on the complexity of the roofing system.  It’s important to hire a roofing professional that can lay out performance-based design criteria that fit within the building owner’s budget. 

Most commercial roofing systems require preventative maintenance programs by the manufacturer.  Professional roofing contractors have service departments that building owners are able to contact during emergencies or when a roof system needs preventative maintenance.  A study by Firestone Building Products showed that an average 20-year roofing system will last beyond the warranty period if a preventive maintenance program is in place.  Conversely, the roofing systems without maintenance programs lasted only 13 years on average.  It is important to treat your commercial roof system as an asset and ensure that maintenance occurs at least twice a year. 

Single-ply commercial roofing membranes have characteristics that make them perform well in different building types.  Roofing professionals may specify an EPDM, TPO, or PVC membrane depending on the desired roof system performance.  These membranes come in different thicknesses such as .045 (45 mil), .060 (60 mils), or even thicker.  Generally speaking, the thicker membranes perform better than the thinner ones. 

It’s important to choose a commercial roofing contractor that is licensed and trained to install commercial roofing manufacturer systems.  Ask the contractor which systems that they are licensed to install and get references from the manufacturer of your choice. 

TPO is an acronym for thermoplastic polyolefin.  It is a type of single-ply roofing membrane that is made from flexible synthetic materials.  TPO membranes perform well because the seams are heat welded together, making them extremely durable.   TPO membranes have more market share in the U.S. than any other roofing system. 

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is the technical name for a rubber membrane roofing system.  EPDM roofs have been installed since the 1960s and have a proven record of high performance.  Membranes are installed in a variety of thicknesses and widths and are either mechanically attached, adhered, or ballasted.