Posted on Thursday, May 1st, 2025 at 9:00 am
You don’t have much time to worry about incidentals when you run a business. However, when protecting your investment, it pays to understand which commercial roofing system is right for your building. Your roof protects everything you’ve worked so hard to build. One bad choice in roofing materials or the roofing system and one strong Texas storm may be enough to cripple your business.
As a business owner, no one expects you to be a roofing expert. That’s why you should put your trust in the professionals at RoofsOnly.com. We are the area’s go-to roofing professionals, specializing in customized business solutions that meet your needs and protect your business.
Do you need a new roof or roofing repairs? It’s time to learn which commercial roofing system is right for your building.
What Makes a Great Commercial Roofing System?
What sets a fine commercial roofing system apart from a great commercial roofing system? One can help you get by, while the other provides years of durability, efficiency, and performance. Roofing professionals can personalize an outstanding commercial roofing system to protect your property, reduce long-term costs, and withstand Austin’s harsh environmental conditions, such as heat, hail, and wind damage. Here are some of the key qualities that define an exceptional commercial roofing system:
- Durability and Longevity – As a busy business owner, you don’t want to think about roof repairs or replacement regularly. An exceptional commercial roofing system should be durable and stand the test of time. Materials like BUR, TPO, PVC, EPDM, and metal are popular for their strength and resistance to weathering, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations.
- Weather Resistance – Austin weather can be unpredictable. A great commercial roofing system protects against rain, wind, hail, and intense summer heat. Proper drainage systems, waterproof membranes, and strong seams are vital to prevent leaks and storm damage that can ruin your roof and business operations.
- Proper Installation – Even the best roofing material will fail if installed incorrectly. An excellent commercial roofing system combines quality materials with expert installation.
- Compatibility with Your Unique Needs – The best roofing system should suit the structure’s size, use, and layout. Flat roofs, sloped designs, and specialized roofing types should align with your business’s goals and operational needs.
Top Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings
A one-size-fits-all roofing system approach does not work for commercial properties. Every business and property is unique and should have a roof customized to its building specifications and operational needs. Different commercial roofing systems provide various benefits and drawbacks that should be considered before roof repairs or installations. Some of the most common roofing systems for commercial buildings include:
- Metal Roofing – Metal roofs continue to be one of the most popular choices in the Austin area. These systems are known for their longevity and structural strength. A metal roof can last up to 40 years or more with minimal maintenance. They are fire-resistant and highly durable. A metal roof also reflects the sun, helping to conserve energy, and is compatible with solar panels and rainwater harvesting.
- Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) Roofing – A TPO roof is an excellent choice because it is energy efficient and cost-effective. TPO is a plastic roof that can handle high temperatures and repel UV rays. It is lightweight, easy to install, and resistant to chemicals, fire, and bacteria.
- Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) – An EPDM roof provides durability in variable climates and is known for its excellent resistance to weathering. It also tends to be easy to install and maintain.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Another plastic roof option is PVC, a lightweight, fire-resistant plastic that can reflect UV rays and is generally energy-efficient due to its reflective surface.
- Built-up roofing (BUR) – BUR offers proven performance and multi-layer protection because multiple layers of industrial fabric are sandwiched between asphalt or tar. These roofs provide UV and waterproof protection and are excellent insulators.
- Modified Bitumen Roofing – A modified bitumen roof is reinforced with fiberglass or polyester for durability and offers flexible designs. It requires little maintenance, and the layered structure can provide outstanding waterproofing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roofing System
Cost is a significant factor for many businesses when choosing a roofing system. However, business owners should consider several vital factors before investing in a roof and the future of their business. When choosing a commercial roofing system, evaluating more than just cost is crucial. The right roofing system can enhance your building’s energy efficiency, durability, and long-term performance. Some of the most essential factors to consider include:
- Building Structure and Design – What is the size and shape of your building? Answering these questions is vital to helping you choose the right roofing system for your commercial building. Some systems, like TPO and EPDM, are best suited to flat roofs, while metal is an ideal choice for sloped roofs. The weight tolerance of the building can also make a difference in the roofing materials you choose.
- Weather Conditions – Austin weather can throw a lot at your building, from hail to extreme heat. Materials suited to UV resistance, rain, hail, and wind can provide longevity and durability when needed.
- Lifespan – How often do you want to think about your roof? Roofing systems like metal and PVC can offer long-term durability with little maintenance.
- Energy-Efficiency – Materials with reflective surfaces can help you reduce HVAC costs and offer better energy efficiency. Some roofing options are also more compatible with solar panels or provide better insulation, depending on your needs.
- Environmental Impact – Environmentally conscious commercial businesses may want to invest in eco-friendly roofing systems to support sustainability goals or take advantage of tax incentives.
Get a Quote From a Commercial Roofing Professional Today
The other factor to consider is local building codes and regulations. You want to ensure that no matter what, your new commercial roof complies with local codes, zoning laws, and insurance requirements. That’s why it pays to contact the local commercial roofing professionals with RoofsOnly.com. We offer exceptional customer service and a roof you can count on to last.
Contact our Austin office today and speak with a commercial roofing specialist about getting a free quote.