Commercial Flat Roof Options for Utah Businesses

Single-ply membranes are the most common commercial roofing choice today. They're durable, cost-effective, and relatively easy to install and repair.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): TPO is the most popular choice right now. It's white, which reflects heat and improves energy efficiency—significant in Utah's sunny summers. TPO is heat-welded at seams, creating watertight bonds. It handles UV well and resists punctures. For most Utah commercial buildings, TPO is my default recommendation.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): EPDM is a rubber membrane that's been around for decades. It's black (though white versions exist), durable, and less expensive than TPO or PVC. The downside: seams are adhered or taped rather than welded, so they're potentially weaker. EPDM works well but is declining in popularity compared to TPO.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is similar to TPO—white, heat-welded seams, reflective. It's slightly more expensive but has superior chemical resistance, making it ideal for restaurants, factories, or buildings with roof-mounted kitchen exhaust. If grease or chemicals are a concern, PVC is the answer.

All three handle Utah's temperature extremes well, though white membranes (TPO, PVC) perform better with our intense summer sun.

These traditional systems are still used, particularly for specific applications:

Built-Up Roofing (BUR): Multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, topped with gravel or a cap sheet. BUR creates a thick, durable roof that handles foot traffic well. It's heavier and more labor-intensive than single-ply, but has a long track record. Still used on buildings with frequent roof access or heavy mechanical equipment.

Modified Bitumen: Asphalt modified with polymers for improved flexibility and durability. Applied in rolls, either torch-applied or self-adhering. Modified bitumen bridges the gap between BUR and single-ply—it's more flexible than BUR but has the multi-layer durability. Good choice for buildings in Utah's mountain areas where flexibility in temperature extremes matters.

Both systems are proven performers, though they're more expensive and labor-intensive than single-ply. We typically recommend them for specific situations rather than general commercial roofing.

Metal isn't just for residential. Commercial metal roofing has its place:

Standing Seam: For commercial buildings with some roof slope, standing seam metal offers excellent longevity (50+ years), low maintenance, and good aesthetics. Warehouses, retail buildings, and industrial facilities often use metal. The upfront cost is higher, but lifecycle costs are competitive.

Metal Retrofits: For existing flat roofs nearing end of life, metal retrofit systems can go over the existing roof, avoiding tear-off costs. These use a lightweight metal panel system that adds decades of life to the building.

Metal makes sense for buildings with adequate slope, long-term ownership plans, or where durability is the primary concern.

The right commercial roof depends on your specific situation:

Budget Priority: EPDM offers the lowest initial cost. TPO provides better value considering longevity and energy savings. Consider total cost of ownership, not just installation price.

Energy Efficiency: White reflective membranes (TPO, PVC) reduce cooling costs significantly in Utah summers. For buildings with high cooling loads, energy savings can offset higher material costs.

Chemical Exposure: Restaurants, manufacturing, or buildings with rooftop exhaust should use PVC for its chemical resistance.

Foot Traffic: If your roof sees regular maintenance traffic, consider more durable options like BUR or thicker single-ply with walkway pads.

Building Use: Retail wants aesthetics and energy efficiency. Warehouses prioritize durability and low maintenance. Restaurants need chemical resistance. Match the roof to the building's purpose.