Selecting the Right Roofing System for Your Commercial Property

Dmytro Morokhovets
Jun 21
3 min read

A Business Decision That Goes Beyond Curb Appeal

Choosing a roofing system for a commercial building isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a strategic investment in long-term performance, energy efficiency, and business continuity. In Santa Monica, CA, where coastal conditions, building codes, and sustainability goals all factor in, the right roofing choice can significantly impact your property’s functionality and value.

At Economy Roofing, we help business owners make informed, cost-effective decisions when it comes to selecting the right commercial roofing system for their specific needs.

Key Considerations for Commercial Roof Selection

Type of Building and Usage

Is your commercial property a retail space, warehouse, apartment complex, or office building? Each use case has different needs. A storage facility may require strong moisture protection, while a mixed-use building may prioritize energy efficiency and insulation.

Roof Slope and Drainage

Commercial roofs are often low-slope or flat, which limits material choices and increases the importance of proper drainage. Systems must be selected and installed with precise pitch and waterproofing to prevent pooling and premature deterioration.

Local Climate and Environmental Conditions

Being in Santa Monica, CA, your roofing system must stand up to salt-laden air, occasional storms, and year-round sun exposure. UV resistance, thermal regulation, and wind uplift protection are essential factors in material selection.

Popular Commercial Roofing Systems

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

Lightweight and highly reflective, TPO is an excellent option for businesses focused on reducing energy costs. It offers UV resistance, heat weldable seams, and strong performance at a competitive price.

Modified Bitumen

Made from asphalt-based materials, modified bitumen is well-suited for buildings that require a durable membrane with multilayer reinforcement. It’s often used for roofs that see light foot traffic or need added puncture resistance.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

This traditional option involves layering felt and bitumen, topped with gravel. It offers strong protection against heavy use and has decades of proven performance. However, it is heavier than modern systems and may require structural review.

Metal Roofing

Though more common in residential applications, metal systems are gaining popularity in commercial settings—especially sloped roofs. Brands like Malarkey and Owens Corning offer commercial-grade metal systems that provide excellent durability and aesthetic appeal.

Energy Efficiency and Reflectivity

Lowering Utility Bills

With California’s energy codes and rising utility rates, reflective “cool” roofing systems are essential. TPO and white-coated modified bitumen are both Energy Star-rated options that reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption—helping your HVAC system work more efficiently.

Look for commercial systems that meet Title 24 requirements and support sustainability goals.

Durability and Warranty

Long-Term Value

A commercial roofing system must be built to last 20+ years with minimal maintenance. Ensure your contractor provides warranty-backed installation with materials approved by leading manufacturers like Owens Corning, Polyglass, or Malarkey.

Economy Roofing offers complete system installations that combine materials, insulation, fasteners, and flashings for maximum performance—backed by manufacturer and workmanship warranties.

Installation and Maintenance Support

Choosing the Right Partner

Even the best roofing material can fail without proper installation and ongoing care. Choose a commercial roofing contractor who:

Is licensed and insured
Offers manufacturer certifications
Understands local building codes
Provides proactive maintenance programs

In Santa Monica, CA, Economy Roofing is a trusted name in commercial roofing. We offer customized solutions designed for your building’s architecture, usage, and budget.

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