Commercial Roofing (E02)
Commercial roofing systems differ fundamentally from residential – they’re engineered systems requiring specialized contractors and materials.
This BidScope guides you through commercial roof types: TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin – white reflective membrane, heat-welded seams, most popular new commercial roof), EPDM (rubber membrane, black or white, glued or mechanically attached, economical), PVC (premium single-ply, chemically welded seams, best for restaurants with grease), modified bitumen (torch-applied or cold-applied, multi-ply system, traditional commercial material), BUR (built-up roofing with tar and gravel, old-school but still specified), and spray polyurethane foam (SPF – seamless application, excellent insulation).
Learn attachment methods: fully-adhered for maximum wind resistance, mechanically-attached with plates and fasteners for economy, ballasted systems using stone or pavers.
Understand insulation requirements: R-values required by energy code (varies by building type), polyiso insulation boards most common, cover boards for protection.
Master drainage – critical for flat/low-slope roofs: minimum 1/4 inch per foot slope to drains, proper drain and scupper sizing, overflow scuppers required, ponding water indicates problems.
Navigate flashing requirements: parapet walls, roof penetrations (HVAC, plumbing vents), curbs around equipment.
Learn about roof walkways and equipment access pads to prevent membrane damage.
Understand warranty options: manufacturer NDL (no dollar limit) warranties require certified installers, extended warranties available with proper maintenance.
Know when coatings can extend roof life versus when replacement is needed.
Calculate lifecycle costs – cheap roofs cost more long-term through leaks and early failure.
This tool ensures your commercial roof is properly specified and installed for maximum performance.
What’s Included:
- Commercial roofing systems (TPO, EPDM, PVC, modified bitumen, BUR, SPF)
- TPO roofing (thermoplastic, white reflective, heat-welded seams, popular)
- TPO benefits (energy efficiency, durability, 15-25 year systems)
- EPDM roofing (rubber membrane, black or white options)
- EPDM attachment (fully-adhered, mechanically-attached, ballasted)
- PVC roofing (premium single-ply, chemically welded, grease resistant)
- Modified bitumen (SBS or APP, torch-applied or cold-applied)
- Modified bitumen multi-ply systems
- BUR built-up roofing (tar and gravel, traditional)
- Spray polyurethane foam (SPF seamless, insulation, waterproofing)
- Attachment methods (fully-adhered, mechanically-attached, ballasted)
- Fully-adhered benefits (wind resistance, clean look)
- Mechanical attachment (plates and fasteners, economical)
- Ballasted systems (stone or pavers, heavyweight)
- Insulation requirements (energy code R-values)
- Polyiso insulation boards (most common commercial)
- Cover boards (protection, traffic, hail)
- Tapered insulation for drainage
- Drainage requirements (minimum 1/4 inch per foot slope)
- Roof drains and scuppers sizing
- Overflow scuppers (secondary drainage)
- Ponding water issues and solutions
- Parapet wall flashing and caps
- Penetration flashing (HVAC, vents, pipes)
- Curbs for rooftop equipment
- Pitch pans (avoid if possible, maintenance issues)
- Expansion joints in large roofs
- Walkway pads and equipment pads
- Lightning protection integration
- Roof access considerations
- Manufacturer warranties (NDL vs limited)
- Certified installer requirements for warranties
- Preventive maintenance programs
- Roof coatings to extend life (acrylic, silicone, urethane)
- Coating vs recover vs replacement decisions
- Thermal imaging for leak detection
- Core samples and testing
- Utah wind and snow loads
- Commercial roof codes and standards
- Cost factors (material, insulation, attachment, warranty)
- Finding qualified commercial roofers
- NRCA membership and training
