Protect Your Investment: Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor for Commercial Buildings

Why Commercial Roofing is Different

Commercial roofing isn’t just bigger — it’s a different game.
Unlike residential roofs, commercial roofing systems are often flat or low-sloped, support heavy equipment, and must meet strict code and safety requirements. In addition, they must be designed to drain properly with structural slope or slope built up by insulation. Choosing the wrong contractor can result in costly repairs, premature failure, and even insurance issues.
That’s why building owners and property managers need to partner with professionals who understand the unique needs of commercial properties.

Your Roof, Your Investment

Your commercial roof isn’t just a protective cover—it’s a strategic asset. Like HVAC, lighting, and security, it directly affects your building’s value, operating costs, and tenant satisfaction.

Think Like an Asset Manager

Roofing decisions should never be made on initial cost alone. Consider:

• Energy Efficiency & Insulation
  A high-performing roof reduces heating and cooling loads, lowering utility bills and improving indoor comfort for tenants.
• Occupant Satisfaction
  Leaks, heat retention, and mold risks lead to complaints and even tenant loss. A reliable roofing system promotes stability and retention.
• Resale & Appraisal Value
  A well-maintained, warrantied roof increases the building's market value and attractiveness to investors or buyers.

Lifecycle Cost Analysis

Choosing a higher-quality system and pairing it with proactive maintenance pays off. While a cheaper installation might save money upfront, it can cost far more over the long haul in:

• Premature replacement
• Emergency leak repairs
• Insurance disputes
• Disrupted operations

Professional commercial roofing contractors can help you evaluate the total cost of ownership (TCO) to guide your roofing decisions wisely.

Maintenance & Inspection Plans

Consider investing in a maintenance and inspection plan. These programs are designed to extend the life of your roof and reduce long-term costs.

Benefits include:

• Scheduled inspections (bi-annual or seasonal)
• Leak tracking and resolution
• Warranty compliance reporting—including assistance with reporting leaks to the manufacturer
• Priority scheduling and discounted service calls

The financial advantages of proactive roof management include:

• Reducing the likelihood of emergency repairs and unplanned downtime
• Extending the life of the roofing system—delaying capital expenditures and improving return on investment

What to Look for in a Commercial Roofing Contractor

When evaluating contractors, don’t just compare price—look for long-term value and protection. Key traits to consider include:

• Proven Experience in Commercial Roofing
  Ensure your contractor specializes in commercial roofing systems such as TPO, EPDM, PVC, Modified Bitumen, or metal. Ask for a portfolio of completed projects similar to your own.
• Proper Licensing & Insurance
  Your contractor should be fully licensed in your state and carry both general liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Always ask for proof before signing.
• Strong Safety Record
  Commercial roofing is high-risk. Your contractor should follow OSHA guidelines and maintain comprehensive safety protocols to protect both workers and your property.
• Manufacturer Certifications
  Contractors certified by leading manufacturers offer stronger warranties and are held to higher installation standards. Ask if they’re certified for the roofing system you want.
• Clear, Written Proposals
  You should receive a detailed scope of work, pricing, material specifications, timelines, and warranty information in writing—no vague promises or hidden costs.

Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Commercial Roofing Contractor

Not all bids are created equal. These questions are designed to help you evaluate risk and make a well-informed decision when comparing contractors:

• Are you certified to install the specific roofing system I need?
• Can you provide proof of insurance and licensing?
• Do your insurance limits adequately cover potential leak damage, including products, equipment, and interior contents below the roof?
• What warranties do you offer, and what do they cover?
• Will you guide me through manufacturer warranty options and registration?
• Who will supervise the installation, and how is quality controlled?
• In-house crews vs. subcontractors—what insurance covers subs?
• Do you offer maintenance plans or post-installation inspections?

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Avoid contractors who:

• Can’t or won’t provide licensing and insurance documentation.
• Use high-pressure sales tactics or want immediate payment.
• Offer unusually low bids—this often means low-quality materials or inexperienced labor.
• Are unwilling to offer a written warranty.

Roofing Systems Comparison

Choosing the right commercial roofing system depends on your building's needs, climate, and budget. Here's a quick overview of the most commonly used systems in today's market:

• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
  A cost-effective, heat-weldable membrane for energy-efficient flat roofs. Available in white, tan, or light gray, it offers excellent UV resistance and reflectivity.
  Lifespan: 20–30 years
• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
  Highly flexible and weather-resistant, this black or gray membrane performs well in cold climates and under long-term UV exposure. Large sheet sizes make installation efficient, though TPO is more commonly used today.
  Lifespan: 20–30 years
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
  A premium membrane known for durability, flexibility, and strong chemical resistance. Ideal for restaurants, factories, and energy-conscious buildings.
  Lifespan: 20–30 years
• Metal Roofing
  Best suited for sloped roofs, metal systems offer architectural appeal, a variety of color and gauge options, and exceptional performance over time.
  Lifespan: 35–50+ years
• Modified Bitumen
  An asphalt-based reinforced system with multi-ply redundancy. Strong choice for complex roof shapes and areas with frequent foot traffic.
  Lifespan: 15–20 years

What About Lifespan?

While lifespan used to be a major differentiator between roofing types, that’s no longer the case. Thanks to advances in materials and installation, most commercial roofing systems now deliver 30+ years of performance with proper maintenance—metal systems even longer. Today, choosing the right system is more about application, energy efficiency, and long-term value, not just how long it lasts.
Need help choosing? A professional commercial roofing contractor can walk you through the pros and cons of each during your consultation.

Before and After Photos