Choosing the right commercial roofing system for your building isn’t just a budget decision—it’s a long-term investment in your property’s performance, protection, and value. And if you’ve found yourself Googling “flat roof comparison” or “TPO vs EPDM,” you’re not alone.
We get it. The sheer number of commercial roofing types and materials can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make the smartest choice for your property here in Eugene’s unpredictable weather conditions.
At NW Roofing and Siding Pros, we’ve installed, repaired, and replaced just about every commercial roof material out there. Whether you’re managing a large retail plaza, industrial warehouse, or a small professional office building, we’re here to simplify your decision-making process with practical insights and straight talk.
Let’s break down the most common commercial roof materials, their pros and cons, and how to determine the best roof for your commercial building.
Why Choosing the Right Commercial Roof Matters
Not all roofs are created equal—and not every roof is a good fit for every building. The wrong roof system can lead to poor energy efficiency, premature wear, costly repairs, and even liability issues if it fails.
You may be dealing with:
- Rising energy bills due to poor insulation
- Recurring leaks that cost time and money
- Expensive maintenance because of incompatible materials
- Confusing advice from contractors pushing a one-size-fits-all system
That’s where we come in. Let’s walk through a practical flat roof comparison and help you make an informed choice based on your priorities—not just trends.
TPO vs EPDM: The Most Common Flat Roof Comparison
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) are two of the most widely used commercial roofing types—and for good reason. They’re affordable, durable, and energy-efficient. But each has its own strengths depending on your needs.
TPO Roofing: Lightweight, Reflective, and Energy-Efficient
TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane that’s heat-welded at the seams, forming a watertight barrier. It’s known for its bright white surface, which reflects sunlight and helps lower cooling costs.
Pros:
- Excellent UV resistance
- Heat-welded seams reduce leak risk
- More rigid, less prone to punctures than EPDM
- Energy-efficient (especially in sunny areas)
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than EPDM
- Inconsistent quality among brands (we use top-tier systems like GAF EverGuard)
- Can be harder to install in colder temperatures
Best for: Commercial buildings with a high sun load or where energy efficiency is a top priority.
EPDM Roofing: Flexible and Budget-Friendly
EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane, typically black, and installed in large sheets. It’s known for its flexibility, especially in colder climates.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Flexible and easy to install
- Good resistance to UV and weathering
- Can last 20–30 years with proper care
Cons:
- Seams are glued, not welded, which can increase risk of leaks
- Black surface absorbs heat, raising cooling costs
- More vulnerable to punctures in high-traffic areas
Best for: Budget-conscious property owners or facilities with low foot traffic and less direct sun exposure.
At NW Roofing and Siding Pros, we’re certified installers of both TPO and EPDM systems, and we’ll help you determine the best fit based on your building’s structure and your long-term goals.
PVC Roofing: High-Performance for Specialized Commercial Use
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is another single-ply roofing material, similar in appearance to TPO but chemically different. It offers excellent resistance to chemicals, grease, and moisture, making it ideal for certain industries.
Pros:
- Heat-welded seams like TPO
- Superior resistance to chemicals and oils
- Long lifespan (up to 30 years)
- Highly reflective surface
Cons:
- More expensive than TPO or EPDM
- Less flexible in cold weather
- Can shrink over time if not installed correctly
Best for: Restaurants, food processing facilities, or buildings with rooftop grease vents or chemical exposure.
Our team has experience installing commercial-grade PVC systems from leading manufacturers like Carlisle and Firestone. If your business handles chemicals or oils, we’ll likely point you toward this system.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) and Modified Bitumen: Old-School Meets Labor-Intensive
Built-up roofs (BUR) and modified bitumen systems are multi-layered asphalt-based systems that have been used for decades.
Pros:
- Multiple layers offer strong protection
- Good fire resistance
- Proven track record
Cons:
- Heavy and labor-intensive to install
- Long installation time
- Not ideal for environmentally conscious properties
Best for: Older commercial buildings or projects where tradition and thickness matter more than energy efficiency.
While we don’t typically recommend BUR systems for new installations, we can maintain or replace sections if your building still uses this method.
Metal Roofing: Durable and Long-Lasting, with a Premium Price
Metal roofing isn’t just for barns or warehouses anymore. Today’s commercial metal systems are sleek, high-performance, and incredibly long-lasting.
Pros:
- Can last 40+ years
- Extremely durable against wind and hail
- Recyclable and eco-friendly
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Noisy during heavy rain if not insulated properly
- Not ideal for very low-slope roofs
Best for: Facilities needing a high-end aesthetic or long-term durability with minimal maintenance.
We work with industry-leading suppliers like ASC Metal and Taylor Metals to deliver commercial-grade metal systems that perform well in Eugene’s climate.
Key Factors When Choosing the Best Roof for a Commercial Building
It’s not just about cost or looks. The best roof system is one that fits your building’s structure, location, budget, and purpose.
Here’s what we consider when helping you choose:
- Roof slope and drainage needs
- Local weather patterns (Eugene sees wind and rain more than snow)
- Building use and foot traffic
- Budget for upfront vs. long-term investment
- Warranty coverage and maintenance goals
- Compatibility with rooftop equipment or solar panels
At NW Roofing and Siding Pros, we walk through each of these considerations with you. We don’t just install roofs—we help you protect what matters most, and that starts with education.
How NW Roofing and Siding Pros Can Help
When it comes to commercial roofing types, we bring more than just technical expertise—we bring clarity. With certifications from GAF, Weatherbond, and IKO, our team delivers roofing systems that perform reliably year after year.
We also offer:
- Drone inspections for accurate and safe evaluations
- Flexible financing through Hearth
- Workmanship warranties up to 25 years
- Local, family-owned service you can trust
Whether you’re comparing TPO vs EPDM, evaluating flat roof options, or just need help navigating commercial roof materials, we’ve got your back.
Ready to Choose the Right Roof?
If you’re still weighing your options, don’t worry. You don’t have to make the decision alone. NW Roofing and Siding Pros is here to guide you every step of the way—from inspection to installation to long-term support.
Call us at 541-935-9559 or email nwrspros@hotmail.com to schedule a consultation.
Let’s find the best roof for your commercial building—together.