There are a few different types of roofs that we install at CCX on 0 slope roofs:
1. TPO roofs
2. PVC roofs
3. Tar and Ballast roofs
4. SBS modified rolled asphaltic roofs
5. EPDM rubberized black roofs
These are the white roofs often seen on large commercial buildings like Walmart. These roofs are heat welded and have an average lifespan of 30 years. They can be installed in such a way that water is held in a puddle on the roof surface, meaning no water will penetrate the roof. These roof types are often installed over a foam base, increasing the insulated value of the roof. These roofs are difficult to get in various colors, outside of tan white black or grey.
TPO roofs and PVC roofs can also be installed in colder weather because the welder controls the heat application between each lap no matter the ambient air temperature.
Tar and ballast roofing systems are the tar and gravel roofs you often see on structures built in the 80s-90s. They are effective roof systems that can last 30 years. A tar and ballast roofing system consists of several layers of tar and gravel or small stones. The process starts with laying down multiple layers of a base material, typically modified bitumen or asphalt, which is then coated with hot tar to form a water-resistant membrane. Then, a layer of gravel or small stones is poured over the tar layer to protect it from UV rays, reduce heat absorption, and add weight to hold the roofing in place. At CCX, we love to tear them off when they fail and replace them with TPO or SBS modified rolled asphaltic roofs.
SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) modified rolled asphaltic roofs are a specific type of modified asphalt roofing material. They are made by blending asphalt and SBS polymers, resulting in a highly elastic roofing material that can withstand extreme temperatures, UV radiation, and heavy foot traffic. SBS-modified asphalt roofs are also highly resistant to water penetration and can prevent leaks, even in the most severe weather conditions.
One of the primary advantages of SBS-modified asphalt roofs is their durability. They can last up to 25 years or more with proper maintenance, making them a cost-effective option for building owners looking for a long-term roofing solution. Additionally, because they are made from recycled materials, SBS-modified asphalt roofs are an environmentally friendly choice.
EPDM, rubberized black roofs are often installed at places like Walmart or other warehouses. These do best in extremely cold weather, due to their pliability, but are black so they attract heat. These are glued together and glued down to the roof deck. Similar to TPO, they are often installed over foam.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a type of synthetic rubber used in roofing applications. It is known for its durability, resistance to extreme temperatures and weathering, and low-maintenance requirements. EPDM roofs are typically black in color and are commonly used for low-slope or flat roofs.
Rubberized black roofs refer to roofing systems made with materials that contain rubber components. These roofs may be made from EPDM or other types of rubberized materials. The rubber content provides added elasticity and flexibility, which can improve the roof’s resistance to cracking and tearing. Black roofing materials are often preferred because they absorb heat and help melt snow and ice. These roofs are less common, but we can install them at CCX.
Commercial Roof Recommendations in Idaho
We typically recommend TPO. SBS modified asphaltic rolled roofing self-adhering. Our favorite of these is the Liberty roll from GAF or the OMNI seal from Malarkey. Omniseal is my particular favorite.
These are installed in either a 2-ply system with a base sheet and then a cap sheet, or a 3-ply system with a mechanically attached base sheet and a self-adhering base sheet above that and a cap sheet on top of that.
These roofs are growing in popularity because they are easier to install, and are often less expensive. They can last about 30 years for the 2-ply and 50 years for the 3-ply systems.
However, these roofs do have their limitations. They aren’t installed over the foam so they like a solid deck to be adhered to. They also require warm weather for their application to be super effective.
There are foam and sealant-applied roofs that we don’t install but there are a few really cool applications for these in commercial settings. A Trowell paint on surface coatings can be installed for cheaper options. When leaks arise, we particularly like the Lucas Seal 6000 and 5500 systems. These are easy to apply, but must be done properly. However, these don’t typically last longer than 5-10 years. This heavily relies on which chemical is installed, how thick, and if manufacturer specifications are strictly upheld.
