Selecting the right commercial and industrial roofing system is a huge decision that can affect your long-term costs, energy efficiency, and the aesthetics of your business premises. A well-chosen and properly installed roof can improve a building’s lifespan considerably, as well as reduce the amount of maintenance you have to pay for.
This article will explore the 10 most common and popular commercial roof coverings and systems, outlining the benefits and considerations of each to help you make the best choice for your business’s needs.
Contents
- Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Commercial Roofing Systems
- The 10 Main (and Best) Commercial Roof Types
- Common Shapes of Commercial Roofing
- How to Choose a Quality Commercial Roof Installation Service
- What if I Need Commercial Roofing Repairs?
Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Commercial Roofing Systems
When choosing a commercial roofing system, it’s best to start by considering your needs. We’ve broken down the key considerations for you to make this thought process easier:
Building Design
The design of your building plays an important role in determining the best roofing system. For example, flat roofs often benefit from popular systems like single-ply membranes, which are designed for proper water drainage and sealing seams effectively. In contrast, sloped roofs may be better suited for metal or tile systems that facilitate fast water runoff and a distinct aesthetic.
Upfront and Ongoing Costs
While the amount you’re required to pay upfront is important, it’s wise to think about long-term maintenance costs and energy savings too. A roofing system with a higher upfront cost, such as slate or fibreglass, often offers lower maintenance expenses, increased lifespan, and improved energy efficiency, making it a stronger and more cost-effective choice over time.
Durability
Naturally, you’ll want to choose a roofing system which protects your property the longest; reducing the need for frequent roof replacements. Examples of more durable materials include slate, metal, and high-quality single-ply membranes, which usually offer the best resistance to general wear and tear.
Maintenance Requirements
Different types of roofing materials come with varying levels of maintenance demands. Some materials, like asphalt shingles, may require regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs to ensure the best performance. On the other hand, materials such as metal often need less frequent attention, saving you valuable time and resources.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient roofing systems can contribute to substantial savings by reducing heating and cooling costs. Reflective materials and insulation-enhanced systems, such as TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membranes, can help reflect UV radiation and maintain stable indoor temperatures; reducing utility bills and contributing to a more sustainable building design.
Weatherproofing
Since we experience a great deal of contrasting weather in the UK, it’s important to consider a roofing system that can withstand hot summers, cold winters, and periods of heavy rain and wind. Therefore, your chosen roof covering should offer a robust weatherproofing solution to prevent leaks and structural damage, such as roofs made from multiple layers or reinforced materials.
Sustainability
Sustainability is an increasingly important topic for businesses in the UK, providing a greater emphasis on reducing environmental footprint. Recyclable materials or systems that support green roofs can provide environmental benefits by reducing waste and improving urban air quality. Sustainable roofing can even improve your building’s marketability when it’s time to sell the premises, especially if you’ve considered elements such as the installation of solar panels!
The 10 Best Commercial Roof Types
Material is one of the most important considerations for your new industrial or commercial roofing. Below we’ve discussed the most popular choices that are being used in 2025:
Single-Ply Roofing
Perhaps the most popular choice (particularly for flat roofs), single-ply systems involve a single layer of synthetic membranes that provide a lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective solution. They can come in many variations - mainly TPO, PVC, and EPDM - each offering excellent energy efficiency, ease of installation, and resistance to UV exposure.
EPDM Roofing
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a type of synthetic rubber roofing that falls under the single ply category. Known for its impressive durability and resistance to extreme temperatures, EPDM is a popular choice for flat roofs. It also offers excellent weathering properties and is relatively easy to install, making it a cost-effective and long-lasting option.
Metal Roofing
Another very popular type of roof covering, metal roofing consists of panels made from steel, aluminium, or zinc. Best known for their longevity, metal roofs offer outstanding resistance to extreme weather conditions and fire, often boasting a lifespan of 40 to 80 years. In addition to their strength, metal roofs are energy efficient due to their reflective properties.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing is an evolution of traditional asphalt roofing that incorporates polymers to improve performance. This system is applied in multiple layers, which can provide extra reinforcement against punctures, water infiltration, and degradation caused by UV rays. Modified bitumen roofs are particularly suited for flat or low-sloped roofs.
Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP)
Also known as fibreglass roofing, GRP is a highly durable roofing material that is particularly popular for flat roofs. It’s made by layering fibreglass matting with a polyester resin, which hardens to form a strong, waterproof surface. GRP is a lightweight and highly waterproof choice, but is more prone to cracking under heavy impact.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
One of the oldest systems on the market, built-up roofing systems, sometimes known as “gravel roofs”, consist of 3 to 5 layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics topped with aggregates. These multiple layers offer excellent waterproofing, insulation, and resistance to UV rays. Although BUR systems are reliable, they tend to be heavier and may require more maintenance.
Polyurethane Liquid-Based Coating
Polyurethane liquid-based coatings are applied as a liquid that cures to form a protective membrane over existing roofs. Valued for their superior waterproofing capabilities and flexibility, liquid-applied coatings have the ability to extend the lifespan of underlying roof systems, such as steel. These coatings are also quick and simple to apply, providing minimal disruption.
Green Roofing
Green roofs, sometimes called “living roofs”, integrate vegetation into roofing systems to provide a natural insulation layer and contribute biodiversity. They help reduce the urban heat island effect (where built-up areas become hotter), manage rainwater, and improve air quality while offering an aesthetic appeal. Although initial installation can be costly, green roofs offer long-term energy saving benefits.
Slate Roofing
Although less commonly seen on commercial properties, slate roofs offer a large range of benefits for businesses that use them. Slate offers low water absorption, excellent durability, and strong fire resistance, giving you a roof that can last over 80+ years in some cases. Although slate roofs are expensive to install, they are low maintenance and often simple to repair.
Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panelled Roofing
PV panels and tiles use solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to create renewable energy for use on your property. Solar panel roofing is an increasingly popular choice for businesses in the UK, particularly those making a greater effort for sustainable solutions. Solar panels and tiles can be applied to many types of roofs, such as metal and flat roofs.
Common Shapes of Commercial Roofing
Roofing can come in several different shapes and sizes, each offering different benefits. Some of the most popular to consider include:
Flat Roofing
Flat roofs are common in commercial buildings due to their ease of installation and maintenance. Flat roofs also open up opportunities to maximise useable roof space, such as for outdoor break spaces. However, they require meticulous waterproofing and drainage, as they are prone to water pooling if not properly maintained.
Low Slope Roofing
Low-slope roofs feature a gentle pitch, balancing aesthetics with ease of maintenance. They feature improved water drainage compared to flat roofs and are particularly compatible with solar panels. They are, however, less efficient at draining rainwater compared to steep slopes, and are a little more limited in design options.
Steep Slope Roofing
Steep slope roofs feature a pronounced pitch, which can ensure a quick runoff of rainwater to reduce the risk of leaks. Steep slope roofing also supports a range of traditional materials, such as slate, metal, or shingles. However, steep-sloped roofing often comes with higher construction and maintenance costs, since they are more challenging to access for inspections or repairs.
How to Choose a Quality Commercial Roof Installation Service
For the most successful, long-lasting commercial roof systems, you’ll need a professional installation. Here’s what you should keep in mind to find the best roofer for the job:
- Read reviews from within your local area, especially for similar projects.
- Review their track record with commercial roof coverings and systems.
- Check for insurance and general roofing licenses to ensure you’re covered.
- Gain multiple quotes for the best idea of costs - remember, cheap isn’t always best!
- Enquire about flexibility to find an installation time that works for your business.
What if I Need Commercial Roofing Repairs?
It’s natural to have concerns over what might happen to your roof if problems arise. Although roofing repairs can sometimes be costly, there are very few problems that an experienced roofing company can’t handle!
In the event that an issue occurs, it’s recommended to contact a local and reputable roofer to avoid further damage. In most cases, they’ll be able to address cracks, leaks, or any other problem promptly, helping your business to stay protected and operational. Always look for a roofer who has experience in your roofing system for the most precise cure, helping to stop the issue from becoming a recurring thorn in your side.
Contact Our Team of Skilled Roofers for Commercial Coverings & Systems
Arranging the installation of a new commercial roof covering is an important decision for your business to make. Here at Empire Roofing, we aim to make the process as stress-free as possible.
Our team are experienced in installing and repairing a wide range of commercial coverings and systems, such as slate, EPDM, and metal, and we offer a no-obligation free quote upfront, to give you an accurate estimate of the cost of the work.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your needs and how we can help!
