Commercial Roofing Materials Comparison: Find the Best Option for your Business

 

Made from natural or synthetic materials, roofs have important functional and aesthetic roles in construction. The right roofing material can increase energy efficiency, maximise the functionality of a commercial building, and create optimal operational conditions inside.

Doing a commercial roofing materials comparison before finalising the decision is essential if you want to experience functional benefits and longevity. 

Are you feeling a bit perplexed and worried about making a choice? Worry not, we have you covered. Use our comprehensive roofing materials comparison to acquaint yourself with the most important uses, pros, and cons of some popular commercial roofing material products.


Metal Roofing

Uniquely stylish and very durable, metal roofs are another popular choice for commercial buildings. Aluminium and steel are both recognised for their durability and longevity. According to many, the benefits of choosing a metal roof far outweigh the disadvantages.

Pros

  • Very long-lived (lifespan often exceeds 100+ years)
  • A cost-efficient choice in the long run, excellent return on investment
  • An energy-efficient choice
  • The material is environmentally friendly
  • Because the material is so tough and durable, its maintenance needs are minimal

 

Cons

  • Upfront cost of installing a metal roof is high
  • Hail or falling branches can dent metal roofs
  • Can be noisy, especially when there’s a downpour

 

Ideal for

Businesses seeking a long-term, weather-resistant roofing solution.


Single-Ply Membrane Roofing

Single-ply membranes are essentially sheets of rubber that create a reliable layer of protection. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and ethylene propylene diene thermopolymer (EPDT) are the two most common varieties used in commercial settings.

Pros

  • Cost-efficient
  • Lightweight, very flexible, and very durable
  • EPDT has been on the market for decades and its positive characteristics are well-recognised
  • Very easy to install

Cons

  • Susceptible to UV damage
  • Can get punctured more easily than other materials

 

Ideal for

Versatile use in small industrial facilities or large-scale projects like factories and airports.


Built-Up Roofing

This is another specialised commercial roofing option. Built-up roofing (BUR) membranes evolved from asphalt roofing but they consist of bitumen and fabric reinforcements.

Pros

  • Very low maintenance
  • UV and fire-resistant
  • More cost-efficient than other commercial roofing materials
  • Durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions
  • Easy to repair

Cons

  • Can be heavier than other materials
  • There are some environmental concerns about the material

Ideal for

Low-slope commercial roofs that require durability and cost-effectiveness.


Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen roofing is asphalt-based. As such, it’s been around since the 1960s. The polymer-modified bitumen is reinforced, which makes the material even more reliable.

Pros

  • Easy to install and very flexible
  • Very high level of water resistance
  • Offers some UV protection
  • Very durable

Cons

  • Shorter lifespan in comparison to other roofing materials
  • Can absorb heat
  • Can be more expensive than other commercial roofing materials

Ideal for

Flat or low-slope commercial buildings requiring water resistance and flexibility.


Tile Roofing

Clay and concrete tiles both give roofs a distinctive look but the benefits of those materials extend beyond aesthetics. Most buildings can benefit from the addition of tile roofing because it’s so incredibly versatile and an environmentally friendly material that will last a very long time. 

Pros

  • Very durable and long-lived
  • Low-maintenance roofing material
  • Can be used to create a distinctive look
  • Various models and designs are available
  • Excellent energy efficiency

Cons

  • Can be quite heavy, necessitating a solid framing structure underneath
  • Colours will fade with time
  • Can be a lot more expensive than budget-friendly materials

Ideal for

Buildings seeking a distinctive, environmentally friendly roof that’s built to last.


Wood Shingles or Shakes

Probably considered one of the most classic options, wood roofing adds some warmth and charm to every property. It’s also an incredibly environmentally friendly material, especially if you pick the right kind of wood for your project.

Pros

  • Increases curb appeal
  • Easy installation
  • Energy efficient and very sustainable
  • Versatile, lots of beautiful designs and shades to choose from
  • Good insulation and wind resistance properties
  • Lightweight in comparison to other roofing materials

 

Cons

  • Susceptible to water, especially if the wood hasn’t been treated properly
  • Susceptible to pests
  • Susceptible to fire
  • Has a shorter lifespan in comparison with other roofing materials

 

Ideal for

Buildings emphasising rustic, classic aesthetics and sustainability.


Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Materials

Synthetic or composite roof shingles are made from synthetic polymers or recycled materials. The appearance replicates that of natural wood, slate tiles, or other expensive natural materials.

Pros

  • More affordable than the natural materials that composite roofing looks like
  • Environmentally friendly and sustainable
  • Beautiful appearance that’s identical to the look of natural materials
  • Various styles and colours, quite versatile
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Less durable than some natural materials
  • Fairly new to the industry
  • The lifespan is shorter than that of natural materials
  • Can be somewhat limiting in terms of acquiring resale value through the years

Ideal for

Commercial properties seeking high-end looks on a budget.


Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Most Durable Roofing Material?

Metal alloys tend to produce some of the toughest, most durable roofs out there. Still, a few factors have to be taken into consideration whenever strength is being assessed. The construction of the roof plays a role (is it flat, is there a slope). The climate will also determine the type of material that will withstand the elements for the longest period of time. 

 

How Often Should Roofs Be Replaced?

The lifespan of roofs varies. The material a roof is made of, as well as the weather plays a role. You should be on the lookout for signs of aging or damage. These suggest the time has come to consider the selection of a replacement roof. A few of these signs include curled or cracked shingles, missing shingles, sagging, leaks and signs of water damage, seeing daylight through roof boards, mould growth, and dark streaks on the roof. 

 

What Are the Most Eco-Friendly Roofing Options?

Anything coming from a renewable resource is a great, sustainable choice. Wood roofing is one such option. The same applies to clay and cement tiles. Recycled and reused materials are also a great choice. It may be a good idea to find out how roofing materials are sourced, especially if you’re interested in sustainable, ethical practices.

Final Thoughts

Commercial roofing materials can offer durability, energy efficiency and longevity when chosen correctly. By carefully evaluating your options, you can select a roofing material that meets your needs while delivering long-term value and performance. If you’re unsure which option is best, consult with a professional to make an informed decision tailored to your specific requirements. 

Here at RCR, our team of trained professionals can help you assess your unique roofing needs and guide you toward the best solution for your business. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your next roofing project.

To sum up the properties of commercial roofing materials, we’ve put together the following table:

Roofing Material Durability Lifespan Cost Maintenance Energy Efficiency Environmental Impact Best for Commercial Use
Metal Roofing Excellent; resistant to fire and weather 40–70+ years High Low (occasional inspection) High-reflective coatings help reduce cooling costs Recyclable, eco-friendly Warehouses, factories, hospitals
Single-Ply Membrane (TPO, PVC, EPDM) Good; flexible and weather-resistant 20–30 years Moderate Moderate (cleaning and seam inspections) High; excellent for flat roofs Recyclable; low environmental impact Office buildings, retail centres, schools
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Excellent; highly durable and weather-resistant 20–30 years Moderate to High Low (periodic inspections) Moderate; insulation can be added Uses natural materials like bitumen Large flat roofs, high-traffic areas
Modified Bitumen Very Good; withstands temperature fluctuations 10–20 years Moderate Moderate (periodic inspections) Moderate to High; reflective options available Partially recyclable, but sustainable Industrial buildings, high-exposure areas
Green Roof Good; provides additional insulation 40+ years (with maintenance) Very High High; requires vegetation care Very High; excellent for thermal insulation Improves air quality, promotes biodiversity Energy-efficient buildings, urban settings
Tile Roofing (Clay, Concrete) Excellent; very durable but heavy 50+ years High Low to Moderate (check for cracks) High; naturally insulative properties Sustainable and recyclable (clay/concrete) Hotels, resorts, historic commercial buildings