As a Salt Lake City roofing professional, MAD Roofing knows how important it is to choose the right roof for your commercial property. Your roof isn’t just a protective covering—it impacts energy efficiency, maintenance costs, and the long-term value of your building.
But with so many options available, comparing commercial roof types can feel overwhelming. Should you go with TPO or PVC? Is metal worth the extra investment? What about roof coatings? These decisions can be tough, but that’s where we come in.
In this blog, we’ll break down the most common types of commercial roofs in Salt Lake City, explore their pros and cons, and help you figure out which one is best for your building.
Why Choosing the Right Commercial Roof Matters
Your roof is your first line of defense against Salt Lake City’s unpredictable weather. From heavy snow and high winds to intense sun and occasional hail, it needs to handle it all. The wrong roofing system can lead to leaks, higher energy bills, or even structural damage over time.
That’s why choosing the right roof isn’t just about cost—it’s about durability, energy efficiency, and finding a system that fits your building’s needs.
At MAD Roofing, we’re committed to helping you make that choice with confidence.
The Most Common Types of Commercial Roofs
Let’s dive into the most popular options for commercial roofing in Salt Lake City and compare their benefits, drawbacks, and ideal uses.
TPO Roofing (Thermoplastic Olefin)
TPO roofing has quickly become one of the most popular types of commercial roofs due to its affordability and energy efficiency.
Why it’s popular:
- Reflective surface helps lower cooling costs during summer
- Resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and punctures
- Remains flexible in cold temperatures, reducing the risk of cracks
Potential downsides:
- Quality can vary depending on the manufacturer
- Requires expert installation—poorly welded seams can lead to leaks
Best for: Retail spaces, industrial buildings, and storage units that need an affordable, energy-efficient solution
MAD Roofing’s Approach: We use premium TPO materials and ensure all seams are expertly heat-welded for maximum durability
PVC Roofing (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC roofing is another single-ply membrane known for its strength and chemical resistance.
Why it stands out:
- Excellent resistance to chemicals and grease
- Strong, heat-welded seams enhance durability
- Reflective surface helps reduce energy costs
Potential downsides:
- Higher upfront cost compared to TPO
- Can become brittle in extremely cold temperatures
Best for: Restaurants, factories, and buildings exposed to oils or harsh chemicals
MAD Roofing’s Approach: We focus on precise installation, ensuring that every seam is heat-welded for superior performance in Salt Lake City’s varying climate
EPDM Roofing (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
Often called the “rubber roof,” EPDM has been a reliable choice for commercial buildings for decades.
Why it’s a solid option:
- Cost-effective and durable
- Highly resistant to UV damage and weathering
- Flexible enough to handle temperature fluctuations
Potential downsides:
- Black surface absorbs heat, leading to higher cooling costs
- Seams are adhered rather than heat-welded, which can be a weak point
Best for: Warehouses, storage units, and large flat roofs where budget is a major factor
MAD Roofing’s Approach: We use top-grade EPDM materials with strong adhesives to ensure long-lasting performance. We also offer white EPDM options for better energy efficiency
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is known for its long lifespan and durability, making it a great investment for many commercial properties.
Why people love metal roofs:
- Lifespan of 40–70 years with minimal maintenance
- Fire-resistant and durable against Salt Lake City’s extreme weather
- Reflective surfaces help lower cooling costs
Potential downsides:
- Higher upfront investment
- Can be noisy during heavy rain or hail
Best for: Multi-family properties, retail complexes, and churches looking for a long-lasting roofing solution
MAD Roofing’s Approach: We offer a variety of metal roofing options, including standing seam, corrugated metal, and metal shingles, tailored to your building’s needs and design
Roof Coatings
Roof coatings are a great way to extend the life of your existing roof without the cost of a full replacement.
Why consider a roof coating:
- Adds waterproofing and reflects sunlight, improving energy efficiency
- Extends the life of your roof by several years
- Cost-effective alternative to a complete roof replacement
Potential downsides:
- Not suitable for roofs with significant structural issues
- Requires maintenance to stay effective over time
Best for: Property owners looking to extend their current roof’s life and improve energy efficiency without a major investment
MAD Roofing’s Approach: We apply high-performance roof coatings that protect your roof and help reduce energy costs, making them ideal for Salt Lake City’s changing weather.
Factors to Consider When Comparing Commercial Roof Types
When comparing commercial roof types, it’s important to think beyond just materials and costs. Let’s break down the key factors that should guide your decision.
Building Structure and Design
The structure and design of your building play a huge role in determining the right roof.
Flat roofs often work best with TPO, PVC, or EPDM systems. These materials are designed for low-slope surfaces and provide excellent waterproofing.
If your building has a sloped roof, metal roofing could be a better fit. It sheds water and snow more efficiently and offers a sleek, modern look.
Also, consider the weight of the materials. Some buildings can’t support heavier roofing systems without reinforcement, which can add to the overall cost.
Salt Lake City’s Climate
Salt Lake City’s weather is unique—it experiences intense sun, heavy snow, high winds, and occasional hail. Your roof needs to handle all of these conditions.
TPO and PVC roofs are great for reflecting UV rays and reducing cooling costs during hot summers. Metal roofs excel at handling snow loads and resist wind damage, making them ideal for the city’s winter months.
Salt Lake City’s freeze-thaw cycles can also take a toll on roofs. Flexible materials like TPO and EPDM can better handle these temperature swings without cracking.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Every roofing material comes with different upfront costs and long-term expenses.
If you’re working with a tight budget, EPDM and TPO offer affordable solutions that still provide durability and weather resistance.
If you’re thinking long-term, metal and PVC roofs offer extended lifespans and lower maintenance costs, making them a smart investment despite their higher upfront prices.
Don’t forget to factor in energy savings. Reflective roofs like TPO and PVC can help lower cooling costs, which adds up over time.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a big deal for commercial properties, especially in Salt Lake City’s hot summers.
White or reflective roofing systems, like TPO and PVC, can significantly lower your building’s cooling costs. Roof coatings can also enhance energy efficiency without the need for a full roof replacement.
If you’re considering a darker roofing material, like traditional EPDM, you might want to explore lighter-colored options or roof coatings to help manage indoor temperatures.
How MAD Roofing Makes It Simple
At MAD Roofing, we know that comparing commercial roof types can feel overwhelming. That’s why we make the process as simple and transparent as possible.
We start with a detailed inspection using professional bidding software. You’ll get photos and videos that show exactly what’s happening on your roof, so there’s no guesswork involved.
Communication is key. From the first inspection to the final walk-through, we guide you through each step, explaining your options and what to expect. You’ll never be left wondering what comes next.
As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we use only top-quality materials and follow strict installation guidelines to ensure your roof meets both industry standards and warranty requirements.
Ready to Choose the Right Roof for Your Property?
If you’re in Salt Lake City and still deciding which roofing system is right for your property, MAD Roofing is here to help. We specialize in comparing commercial roof types and guiding you through the process so you can make the best choice for your building and budget.
Give us a call at 801-900-3296 or email info@madroofers.com to schedule your inspection. Our team will walk you through your options, answer your questions, and make sure you get a roof that lasts.
When it comes to types of commercial roofs in Salt Lake City, MAD Roofing delivers the quality and expertise your property deserves.
