1. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) Durability

TPO is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems in the U.S., and for good reason. This single-ply membrane offers a blend of durability, affordability, and energy efficiency.

• - TPO Lifespan: 20–30+ years with proper installation and maintenance.
• - Best For: Commercial buildings in hot or temperate climates looking for an energy-efficient roofing solution.
• - Considerations: TPO quality varies significantly by manufacturer. Always choose a roofing contractor (like Allied) that partners with proven brands backed by a warranty.
• ‍

What Makes TPO Durable:

• - Heat-welded seams create a watertight bond that resists leaks.
• - UV- and heat-resistant, reducing the risk of degradation in sunny climates.
• - Highly flexible, making it less prone to cracking, puncturing, or splitting.
• ‍

2. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Durability

Also known as "rubber roofing," EPDM has been a staple in the commercial roofing world for decades, and it doesn't show any signs of slowing down. It's a durable single-ply membrane that excels in both warm and cold climates.

• - EPDM Lifespan: 25–30+ years with maintenance.
• - Best For: Warehouses, manufacturing plants, and large flat-roof buildings.
• - Considerations: While highly durable, EPDM can be punctured by sharp objects and require a reflective coating to perform well in the hot climates (like Kernersville summers).
• ‍

What Makes EPDM Durable:

• - Exceptional resistance to UV rays, ozone, and extreme temperatures.
• - Strong track record for weathering freeze/thaw cycles.
• - Low maintenance and few seams (especially in large sheets), which reduces failure points.
• ‍

3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Roofing Durability

PVC is another single-ply roofing membrane, often compared to TPO. It offers excellent chemical resistance, making it ideal for buildings like restaurants or factories.

• - PVC Lifespan: 20–30+ years, depending on the conditions, installation quality, and maintenance.
• - Best For: Restaurants, commercial kitchens, or facilities with rooftop HVAC systems or grease traps.
• - Considerations: PVC can become brittle over time in colder climates and may shrink slightly if not installed correctly.
• ‍

What Makes PVC Durable:

• - Superior resistance to chemical exposure, grease, and oil.
• - Heat-welded seams provide excellent waterproofing.
• - Naturally fire-resistant and highly reflective.
• ‍

4. Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Durability

Built-Up Roofing is the oldest and most time-tested commercial roofing system. Made by layering asphalt and reinforcing fabrics, BUR creates a thick, waterproof membrane.

• - BUR Lifespan: 20–30+ years, depending on the number of plies and maintenance.
• - Best For: Flat-roofed commercial buildings with high foot traffic or where heavy-duty waterproofing is critical.
• - Considerations: BUR is heavier than most systems, which helps add to its durability; however, that also means you need a structure sturdy enough to handle the extra weight.
• ‍

What Makes BUR Durable:

• - Multiple layers provide protection, durability, and excellent waterproofing.
• - UV-resistant with the option to add gravel or reflective coatings.
• - Fire-resistant and very stable under foot traffic.
• ‍

5. Modified Bitumen Roofing Durability

A close cousin of BUR, modified bitumen roofing combines asphalt with rubber or plastic modifiers to increase flexibility and resistance to damage.

• - Modified Bitumen Lifespan: 20–25+ years when installed and maintained properly.
• - Best For: Buildings with flat or low-slope roofs in harsh climates, especially where freeze/thaw cycles are common.
• - Considerations: Improper installation (especially with torch-down methods) can lead to premature failure. Always use experienced installers (like those found at Allied Roofing).
• ‍

What Makes Modified Bitumen Durable:

• - Multi-ply system that resists punctures, tears, and weathering.
• - Can be installed with cold adhesives or torched for extra bonding.
• - Resistant to thermal shock and flexible in cold temperatures.
• ‍

6. Metal Roofing Durability

Metal has long been a top-tier roofing material for both aesthetics and strength. While it carries a higher upfront cost, metal roofing is unmatched in longevity.

• - Metal Roofing Lifespan: 40+ years, depending on the material (steel, aluminum, zinc, etc.) and installation quality.
• - Best For: Modern commercial buildings, retail spaces, or facilities needing long-term, low-maintenance performance.
• - Considerations: Metal can be noisy during rain or hail without proper insulation. Expansion and contraction must be accounted for during installation.
• ‍

What Makes Metal Roofing Durable:

• - Lifespan often exceeds 40 years with routine maintenance.
• - Resistant to fire, mildew, insects, and rot.
• - Excellent wind, hail, and impact resistance.
• - Recyclable and sustainable.
• ‍

Quick Roofing Material Comparison: Durability at a Glance

While there is plenty more to explore with each of these systems, it can be helpful to know the key talking points before speaking with a roofing expert. Here's a high-level overview to help you compare these materials side-by-side:

• - TPO: Cost-effective, UV-resistant, 20–30 years lifespan
• - EPDM: Low maintenance, weather-resistant, 25–30+ years
• - PVC: Chemical-resistant, highly reflective, 20–30 years
• - BUR: Time-tested, heavy-duty, 20–30+ years
• - Modified Bitumen: Flexible, weather-resistant, 20–25 years
• - Metal Roofing: Often the longest-lasting, 40+ years, but at a premium cost
• ‍

Key Considerations When Choosing a Durable Roof

You can optimize roofing durability when you pick the right material for your building and its conditions. Before committing to a roofing system, an expert will help you consider the following factors:

• - Climate: Cold vs. hot, dry vs. humid, and storm frequency could impact the ideal roofing material for you.
• - Roof Slope: Some materials work better on flat and low-slope vs. pitched roofs.
• - Foot Traffic: High-traffic roofs require tougher membranes or surfacing.
• - Energy Efficiency: Consider reflectivity and insulation performance if you live in an area with extreme climates.
• - Budget and Lifecycle Costs: Factor in upfront and long-term costs to find the best solution for your business's finances.

A qualified roofing professional will help you find the right roofing material for your building, climate, and roof composition. 

‍

Allied Roofing: Durable Roofs in Kernersville and Winston-Salem

A long-lasting roofing system starts with a reliable roofing professional. For businesses in Kernersville, Winston-Salem, and surrounding areas, that is Allied Roofing. Our specialists have the skills, expertise, insights, tools, and industry-leading materials necessary to set your roof up for success. We welcome you to explore our work or contact our local experts to get started today! 

‍