Selecting the Best Commercial Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing material for your commercial property is one of the most important decisions you can make as a building owner or manager. Your roof plays a critical role in protecting your structure, maintaining energy efficiency, and preserving the value of your investment. In Santa Monica, CA, the climate and building codes must also be considered, making the material selection process even more crucial.

Understand Your Building’s Needs

No two commercial buildings are exactly alike. Factors such as roof slope, square footage, access points, HVAC system placement, and foot traffic all affect the ideal roofing solution. For example, low-slope roofs often benefit from membrane systems like TPO or PVC, while sloped surfaces may be suited for metal or modified bitumen.

Before settling on a material, conduct a professional roof assessment to identify any existing conditions or design constraints that may influence your options.

Overview of Common Commercial Roofing Materials

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO has become one of the most popular roofing membranes due to its cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. It’s highly reflective, UV-resistant, and suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC roofing is durable, chemical-resistant, and ideal for restaurants or buildings with grease exhaust systems. It performs well in high-heat environments and maintains strength over time.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

Also known as “rubber roofing,” EPDM is prized for its flexibility and weather resistance. It’s especially well-suited for areas that experience temperature fluctuations.

Modified Bitumen

This asphalt-based system offers excellent waterproofing and is commonly used on flat or low-slope roofs. It can be applied with heat or self-adhering sheets and has a solid track record for performance.

Metal Roofing

While more commonly used in residential or industrial applications, standing seam metal roofs are gaining popularity for commercial buildings seeking durability and longevity.

Consider the Long-Term Value

While initial installation costs are a major factor, commercial property owners must also weigh:

• Maintenance requirements

• Expected lifespan

• Energy efficiency and reflectivity

• Weather resilience

• Code compliance and warranty coverage

In the long term, a more expensive system with fewer repairs and better energy savings may prove to be the smarter investment.

Regional Considerations

In a coastal city like Santa Monica, the impact of sun exposure, salt-laden air, and occasional storm activity must be taken into account. Materials with UV resistance and strong waterproofing characteristics are ideal. Reflective roofing systems can also help reduce cooling costs during hot summers.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

A trusted contractor like Economy Roofing brings local expertise and up-to-date product knowledge to help you choose the best material for your specific needs. Their assessments consider climate, budget, energy codes, and warranty options to make sure you’re getting the best fit for your property.

Brands You Can Trust

Economy Roofing proudly partners with Malarkey, Owens Corning, and other industry leaders to ensure every commercial roof is built for strength, sustainability, and long-term performance.

Read also our blog: Deciding Between Roof Repair or Full Replacement

Selecting the best commercial roofing material requires more than browsing a product catalog. It takes a full understanding of your building, local conditions, and long-term goals. With the right partner, you can feel confident your roof is built to last—and built to perform.