Choosing the Right Commercial Roof: A Look at TPO, EPDM, PVC, and Mod Bit
January 18, 2025

Guide to Commercial Flat Roofing Systems

Choosing the right flat roofing system for a commercial property is a critical decision that impacts longevity, energy efficiency, and maintenance costs. Given the complexity and variety of options available, it's essential to partner with a roofing contractor who specializes in the specific materials suited for commercial applications.


Here is an overview of the most common and effective flat roofing systems used in commercial construction today:


1. TPO Roofing System (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO remains one of the most popular commercial roofing systems due to its robust combination of performance and value.


  • Classification: Thermoplastic single-ply membrane.
  • Key Features & Updates: TPO is highly durable, versatile, and cost-effective. Modern formulations offer improved UV resistance and flexibility, significantly extending the material's lifespan. The seams are hot-air welded, creating an extremely strong, monolithic, and waterproof bond.
  • Benefits: Excellent puncture resistance, high reflectivity (leading to significant energy savings and compliance with "cool roof" standards), and minimal maintenance requirements.
  • Ideal For: New construction, re-roofing projects, and facilities prioritizing energy efficiency.


2. EPDM Rubber Roofing System (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

Often referred to as "rubber roofing," EPDM is a time-tested material known for its exceptional durability.


  • Classification: Elastomeric (synthetic rubber) single-ply membrane.
  • Key Features & Updates: EPDM is an incredibly long-lasting material. While traditionally black (absorbing heat), it is now widely available in white (reflective) formulations to improve energy efficiency, providing a solution for both hot and cold climates. Installation can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted.
  • Benefits: Extraordinary resistance to UV light, ozone, weathering, and temperature extremes. It is an excellent choice for roofs with low slope or totally flat configurations and is highly repairable.
  • Ideal For: Structures in various climates needing a durable, long-term, and reliable waterproofing solution.


3. PVC Roofing System (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is a premium, high-performance thermoplastic membrane favored in demanding environments.


  • Classification: Thermoplastic single-ply membrane.
  • Key Features & Updates: PVC is flexible, lightweight, and engineered for superior resistance to chemicals, grease, and fires. Like TPO, the seams are hot-air welded for ultimate waterproofing. Modern PVC systems maintain their flexibility and strength even in harsh conditions.
  • Benefits: Superior resistance to fats, oils, and chemical effluents, making it ideal for restaurants or other facilities with rooftop exhaust. It also stands up exceptionally well to continuous dampness and ponding water without suffering adverse effects from plant roots, fungi, or bacteria.
  • Ideal For: Commercial kitchens, industrial facilities, and buildings requiring chemical and grease resistance.


4. Modified Bitumen (Mod Bit) Roofing System

Modified Bitumen is a sturdy, traditional system often used as an upgrade to traditional asphalt built-up roofing (BUR).



  • Classification: Asphalt-based rolled roofing, enhanced with polymer modifiers (either APP or SBS).
  • Key Features & Updates: This system consists of one or more layers of rolled roofing material. While older methods relied on torch-application (heating the asphalt adhesive), the industry has largely shifted to safer, highly effective peel-and-stick (self-adhered) systems. These modern systems utilize all-weather-grade adhesives, eliminating the need for an open flame and simplifying installation.
  • Benefits: Enhanced resistance to thermal shock and fatigue compared to traditional BUR. The mineral-granule surface provides excellent UV protection and durability.
  • Ideal For: Repairs on existing built-up roofs, projects with complex flashing details, and buildings where redundancy in layers is preferred.


Roofing Solutions Tailored to Your Needs

At B&D Roofing Solutions, we are proficient in the repair and replacement of all major commercial flat roofing systems: TPO, EPDM, PVC, and Modified Bitumen. We understand that each material—from the superior longevity and durability of TPO and EPDM, to the chemical resistance of PVC, and the robust layering of Modified Bitumen—offers specific advantages. Our expertise ensures we recommend and install the optimal system for your building's unique requirements, climate, and budgetary considerations. We are committed to delivering superior performance and long-term energy efficiency for a wide variety of commercial facilities.


Contact Us today at 336-899-1985 for a free on-site evaluation and estimate to determine the best modern roofing solution for your commercial property.