At Colonial Contracting, Inc., we understand the importance of protecting your Northern Virginia business from the elements. The right roofing material will not only keep out rainwater, but also the heat and humidity to provide you a more comfortable place for you to operate your business.
In this blog, our roofing experts discuss two of our most popular commercial roofing options for flat roofs: TPO and BUR. We’ll cover their unique benefits and disadvantages to help commercial property owners determine the best roof for their needs.
TPO Roofing Systems
A TPO or thermoplastic polyolefin roof is made from a blend of synthetic thermoplastic and rubber, which makes it both strong and flexible. It comes in sheets of single-ply membrane that are then welded together to create a waterproof and seamless roof.
Pros of TPO Roofs
- Energy efficiency: TPO reflects UV rays to reduce heat absorption and improve energy efficiency within commercial buildings by reducing the need for HVAC to maintain an ideal temperature.
- Affordability: TPO is more affordable than many other roofing options including other single-ply roofing membranes and buildup roofing.
- Environmental friendliness: TPO is often recyclable, making it an excellent choice for those trying to commit to more sustainable business practices.
Cons of TPO Roofs
- Less proven: TPO roofs were introduced in the early 1990s and, as a newer roofing option, haven’t had the chance to prove long-term durability.
- Seam strength: If not properly installed by a certified roofing contractor, TPO seams can fail and cause leaks in your commercial building’s roof.
- Inconsistency: The quality of TPO materials can vary significantly across manufacturers so it’s important to choose a reputable brand.
Built-Up Roofing Systems
Used for more than a century, built-up roofing or BUR is made of multiple layers of asphalt or tar between reinforcing layers of fabric. The top is then finished with a layer of gravel for additional protection.
Pros of Built-Up Roofs
- Proven performance: Over the last 100 years, BUR has proven to provide excellent durability and protection from commercial properties.
- Great waterproofing: Thanks to its many layers, BUR offers great water resistance even against pooling.
- Durability: BUR is UV and weather resistant, has excellent insulation properties, and provides some fire resistance thanks to its top gravel layer, making it highly durable in all conditions.
Cons of Built-Up Roofs
- Complex installation: The many layers involved in BUR require a lengthy and complex installation and may even require additional structural support due to the weight of the roofing materials.
- Cost: The labor and large amount of material required for a BUR system make them more expensive than single-ply options like TPO.
Choosing the Right Roof for Your Business
Finding the right commercial roofing material for your business can be complicated. Both offer their own unique benefits, which means owners need to assess their priorities to make the best selection. In general, BUR is a better choice for harsh environments but will require additional maintenance and greater upfront cost. On the other hand, TPO is an energy-efficient, affordable option for businesses that are looking for fast and easy installation.
Choose CCI for Commercial Roofing in Northern Virginia
When you need expert commercial roofing services in Northern Virginia, trust Colonial Contracting, Inc. Our team is proud to offer uncompromising quality, value, and service with an unmatched level of attention to detail. As pioneers of the industry, our family-owned and -operated roofing company has established a reputation for excellence and earned an A+ BBB rating. Plus, with a 10-year limited warranty, you can rest assured we stand behind our work.
Schedule a free, no-obligation inspection by calling Colonial Contracting, Inc. today.
