When it comes to protecting your commercial property from the elements, your choice of roofing system makes all the difference. The right flat roof not only safeguards your building but can also improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance longevity.

From time-tested materials to modern energy-efficient options, here are five of the most popular commercial flat roof types and how to choose the right one for your business.

1. Built-Up Roofing (BUR): Proven Durability and Strength

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is one of the oldest and most reliable flat roofing systems used in commercial construction. It consists of multiple layers of bitumen (asphalt or tar) and reinforcing fabrics, finished with a protective layer of gravel or mineral granules.

Why choose BUR?

Extremely durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions.
Handles heavy foot traffic, perfect for buildings requiring frequent roof access.
Offers strong UV protection and heat reflection, helping to keep interior temperatures cooler.

While BUR systems are heavier and may need additional structural support, they provide long-lasting performance that many business owners trust for decades.

2. Modified Bitumen: Flexibility in Any Climate

Modified bitumen roofing combines traditional asphalt with modern polymers to create a flexible, waterproof material that resists cracking and temperature fluctuations. It’s applied in rolls using heat, cold adhesives, or self-adhering sheets.

Key advantages:

Expands and contracts with temperature changes without damage.
Excellent waterproofing and UV resistance.
Easy to install and repair, making it a cost-effective roofing option.

Modified bitumen is ideal for properties in regions with wide seasonal temperature swings, offering the perfect balance between affordability and durability.

3. EPDM Roofing: Superior Weather Resistance

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing is a synthetic rubber membrane that’s known for its exceptional weather resistance and longevity. Available in both black and white, EPDM roofs perform well in extreme climates, resisting hail, wind, and heavy rain.

Benefits of EPDM roofing:

Outstanding resistance to UV radiation and ozone.
Lightweight single-ply design minimizes structural load.
Easy to maintain and repair, ideal for long-term cost savings.

For business owners seeking a low-maintenance, durable, and affordable flat roof, EPDM remains one of the most reliable choices on the market.

4. TPO Roofing: Energy Efficiency at Its Best

TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roofing has quickly become one of the most popular commercial flat roofing systems due to its energy-saving properties and environmental benefits. TPO membranes reflect sunlight, significantly reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling costs.

Why businesses choose TPO:

Highly reflective and energy-efficient surface.
Resistant to UV rays, mold, and chemical exposure.
Durable, flexible, and easy to install.

If your goal is to improve energy efficiency and lower your building’s operational costs, TPO roofing is a smart, sustainable investment.

5. PVC Roofing: Exceptional Chemical and Fire Resistance

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing offers impressive resistance to chemicals, grease, and fire making it ideal for restaurants, factories, and industrial facilities.

Key advantages:

Withstands harsh substances and extreme weather.
Reflective surface helps reduce cooling costs.
Long service life with minimal maintenance required.

PVC roofs are engineered for strength, flexibility, and environmental performance, making them one of the most durable and reliable flat roofing solutions available.

Protect Your Investment with Cephalo Roofing

Choosing the right commercial flat roof involves more than just picking a material, it’s about finding a system that fits your property’s needs, local climate, and long-term goals.

At Cephalo Roofing, we’re certified installers of top-quality commercial roofing systems from industry-leading manufacturers like GAF, Carlisle, and Versico. Our team specializes in energy-efficient single-ply membranes such as TPO, EPDM, and PVC & KEE HP, designed to deliver superior performance and lasting protection.

With Cephalo Roofing, you’re partnering with a team dedicated to innovation, durability, and energy efficiency. We continuously evolve our techniques to meet the latest industry standards ensuring your business gets a roof built to withstand time and weather alike.

Protect your business with a commercial roofing system that lasts. Contact Cephalo Roofing today to learn more about our professional flat roof installation and maintenance services.