Commercial Roofing Systems: TPO, EPDM, Built-Up & More

When a leak appears overhead in your warehouse or office, every second drags. Maybe it’s a slow drip over a weekend—maybe a full-on waterfall during a storm. Either way, commercial roof problems never wait for a convenient time. That’s why understanding your options, from TPO to built-up systems, matters more than ever.

At STL Roofing, we’ve seen every roof scenario: frantic midnight calls, scheduled upgrades, and everything in between. Our crews know how critical it is to keep your business dry, safe, and open. Whether you need emergency roofing or want a cost-effective replacement, the right material and approach can make all the difference.

System Overviews 🏢

Before choosing a roof, it helps to picture each system like a different kind of armor—each with its strengths in the face of sun, rain, hail, and time.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

• Appearance: Bright white, seamless rolls.
• Common Use: Warehouses, retail, schools—buildings with big flat areas.
• Key Features: Reflects heat, flexible, lightweight.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

• Appearance: Black rubber, like a giant bicycle inner tube.
• Common Use: Office parks, medical buildings, older flat roofs.
• Key Features: Absorbs heat, resists hail, long-lasting.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

• Appearance: Layered tar, gravel, and felt—think of a rocky road ice cream, but for roofs.
• Common Use: Low-slope commercial roofs, historic properties.
• Key Features: Multiple layers, heavy, time-tested.

Metal Roofing

• Appearance: Long, interlocking panels—like smooth armor plates.
• Common Use: Distribution centers, industrial facilities, modern offices.
• Key Features: Durable, fireproof, sleek look.

Roof Coatings

• Appearance: Smooth, paint-like finish—usually white or silver.
• Common Use: Extending life of older roofs.
• Key Features: Seals minor leaks, reflects UV, bridges cracks.

Pros and Cons

Every system wears a different cape. Let’s compare their strengths and quirks.

TPO

Pros:

• Highly reflective—keeps buildings cooler in summer.
• Welded seams mean fewer leaks.
• Often lower upfront cost.

Cons:

• Can puncture if walked on regularly.
• Newer formulas vary in quality.

EPDM

Pros:

• Handles extreme cold and hail well.
• Simple repairs—patches like a bike tire.
• Proven track record (used since the 1960s).

Cons:

• Black surface absorbs heat (can raise cooling bills).
• Seams are glued, not welded.

Built-Up Roofing

Pros:

• Multiple layers = more protection.
• Gravel surface shields against UV, hail.
• Fire-resistant.

Cons:

• Heaviest system—needs strong decking.
• Smelly install (hot tar).
• Higher labor costs.

Metal Roofing

Pros:

• Lasts 40+ years with care.
• Sheds snow and water fast.
• Fire, wind, and animal resistant.

Cons:

• Can dent from hail or falling debris.
• Expansion/contraction needs careful design.

Roof Coatings

Pros:

• Fast to apply.
• Seals over small cracks and leaks.
• Boosts reflectivity, saves energy.

Cons:

• Temporary fix—won’t solve major structural issues.
• Needs reapplication every 5–10 years.

Maintenance Needs 🛠️

Roofs are like cars—they last longer when maintained. Here’s what each system craves:

• TPO: Annual seam checks. Clean off debris. Watch for punctures.
• EPDM: Inspect seams and flashings twice a year. Patch any splits.
• Built-Up: Check gravel for bald spots. Clear drains and check for puddles.
• Metal: Tighten fasteners and check for rust. Clear branches/leaves.
• Coatings: Inspect for bubbles and cracks. Recoat on schedule.

Routine inspections by a certified pro—like those required by NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association)—are key. STL Roofing is fully licensed and trained to meet industry safety and code standards.

Choosing the Right System

Picking a roof is like choosing shoes for a marathon—fit, function, and budget all matter.

• Flat, wide buildings love TPO or EPDM.
• Older buildings might need built-up for extra weight and tradition.
• Modern or visible roofs often go for metal for looks and longevity.
• Tight budgets or quick fixes? Consider coatings as a bridge to future replacement.

ROI Tip: Think lifespan, not just upfront cost. A cheaper roof that needs replacing twice as often isn't a bargain.

STL Roofing’s Portfolio & Certifications

We’ve handled projects for schools, retail chains, manufacturing plants, and office parks—each with its own unique needs. Our portfolio includes:

• 100,000+ square feet of TPO on distribution centers
• Historic built-up roof restorations for local municipalities
• Metal retrofits for modern office complexes
• Emergency roofing repairs after severe summer storms

Our team holds OSHA 30 and manufacturer installation certifications for leading products (Firestone, GAF, Carlisle, and more). We stay up-to-date with International Building Code (IBC) and local safety requirements.

Cost & ROI Charts 💸

When budgeting, think of roofing costs as an investment in downtime prevention—and peace of mind.

TPO

• Installed Cost: Moderate
• Lifespan: 15–20 years
• Energy Savings: High (reflective surface)
• ROI: Quick payback in cooling-heavy buildings

EPDM

• Installed Cost: Moderate-to-high
• Lifespan: 20+ years
• Energy Savings: Low (black surface)
• ROI: Best for long-term owners

Built-Up

• Installed Cost: High
• Lifespan: 20–30 years
• Energy Savings: Moderate
• ROI: Strong if building structure supports weight

Metal

• Installed Cost: Highest
• Lifespan: 40–60 years
• Energy Savings: High (reflective options)
• ROI: Excellent for owners planning decades ahead

Coatings

• Installed Cost: Low
• Lifespan: 5–10 years (before recoat)
• Energy Savings: High (white/silver)
• ROI: Best for extending life of a good roof

Maintenance Needs

Regular care is the secret sauce. A missed inspection can turn a small fix into a big expense.

• Tip: Schedule biannual inspections—spring and fall. Remove debris and check seams, drains, and flashings.
• Industry Standard: The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends at least two professional inspections per year.

Choosing the Right System

Think of your roof as your building’s helmet. Weather, age, and use all decide which style fits best.

• Flat roofs? TPO or EPDM.
• Heavy snow? Metal.
• Short-term fix? Coatings.
• Historic charm? Built-up.

Ask yourself: How long will you own the building? What’s your climate like? Need emergency roofing or a preventive upgrade? Your answers point the way.

STL Roofing’s Portfolio: Real-World Results

• Logistics Warehouse: 120,000 sq ft TPO install with rapid storm recovery.
• Downtown Office: Metal retrofit, added skylights for energy savings.
• Public Library: Built-up roof preservation, modern insulation added.

Industry Certifications

STL Roofing is certified by:

• Major manufacturers (Firestone, GAF, Carlisle)
• OSHA 30-hour safety standards
• Local and state code compliance (per IBC and St. Louis County guidelines)

Our crews receive ongoing training to keep your project compliant and safe.

Practical Tips for Building Owners 📝

• Trim trees: Prevent branch damage.
• Clear drains: Standing water is a silent enemy.
• Check after storms: Even small hail can bruise a membrane.
• Keep records: Maintenance logs help with insurance claims.

FAQ

How long does a commercial roof replacement take?
Depends on size and weather. Small buildings: a few days. Large complexes: up to two weeks, especially with rain delays.

Can I install solar panels on these roofs?
Yes—TPO, EPDM, and metal are all solar-ready. Always consult a professional roofer and certified solar installer.

How do I know if I need emergency roofing?
If water is entering the building or you see bubbling, sagging, or daylight through the roof—call for help immediately.

Do coatings work on every roof?
Not always. Structural issues or saturated insulation need repair first. Coatings are best for roofs in decent shape.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Missouri’s wild weather means roofs take a beating: hail in spring, heat in summer, ice and snow in winter. STL Roofing tailors solutions for these swings—selecting materials that flex and seal year-round.

• Spring: Inspect for winter damage.
• Summer: Watch for UV wear.
• Fall: Clear leaves from drains and gutters.
• Winter: Monitor snow loads on flat roofs; clear when needed.

Ready to Protect Your Business?

Roof problems don’t keep business hours. STL Roofing does. Whether you need quick repairs, a full replacement, or just a second opinion, we’re here to help keep your building safe, dry, and open for business.

Call STL Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  888-887-3097 .