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What Are the Best Flat Roofing Materials?

Published by Andrew Schmidt

Flat roof covered with bitumen membrane and silver lacquer with chimney

Are you looking for the best flat roofing material for your commercial property? At Showalter Roofing, we’ve been installing, repairing, and maintaining flat roofs across Chicagoland for over four decades. Our expertise in flat roofing materials is unmatched, and we’re ready to help you choose the perfect solution for your business.

Types of Roofing Materials for Flat Roofs

When it comes to flat roof systems, selecting the right material is crucial for long-term performance and protection. Here are the top flat roofing materials we offer at Showalter Roofing:

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

This durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane is great for large commercial buildings like warehouses. Benefits of EPDM include:

  • Excellent weather resistance
  • Long lifespan (up to 30 years with proper maintenance)
  • UV-resistant and flexible in various temperatures 

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It’s an excellent choice for retail stores, restaurants, and eco-conscious businesses. Benefits of TPO include:

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is a thermoplastic membrane known for its durability. It is great for restaurants and industrial facilities. Its benefits include:

  • High resistance to chemicals, grease, and fire
  • Strong seams for excellent water resistance
  • Able to withstand high winds and impacts

Modified Bitumen

This hybrid of traditional built-up roofing and modern polymer-modified cap sheets is great for older commercial and industrial buildings. Associated benefits include:

  • Multi-layer protection
  • Good tensile strength and flexibility
  • Suitable for buildings with limited roof access

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) 

Multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric are perfect for property owners who need affordable roofing solutions: Benefits include:

  • Excellent waterproofing and UV protection
  • Durable and long-lasting (20-30 years)
  • Good for buildings with heavy roof-top traffic

Choosing the Right Flat Roof Roofing Material

The best flat roofing material for your commercial property depends on several factors, including:

  • Building structure and load-bearing capacity
  • Budget considerations
  • Local climate conditions
  • Maintenance requirements
  • Expected lifespan of the roof
  • Energy efficiency goals

If you are unsure of the best material for your building’s flat roof, schedule an inspection. During the inspection, roofing professionals will assess your property and needs to determine the ideal flat roofing solution for your commercial building.

Choose Showalter for Your Commercial Flat Roofing Needs

At Showalter Roofing, we’ve provided business owners in Naperville and the surrounding communities with reliable flat roofing services for over 40 years. Call us at 855.932.4488 for more information or to request a free estimate.

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