Commercial Roof Types

Durable Roofing Options for Your Commercial Property

The roofing system you choose has a direct impact on how your building performs for years to come. Legacy Contracting Group installs all major types of commercial roofing systems and can help you compare your options based on your property’s structure, your budget, and your long-term goals.

We work with business owners and property managers throughout Carroll County, Montgomery County, and the surrounding areas to find a roofing solution that makes sense for the building they’re responsible for.

The Commercial Roofing Systems We Install

Whether you’re building a new commercial building or replacing a failing roof on your current one, our team is experienced in installing flat and low-slope commercial roofs. We work with you to assess your property and select a new roofing system that aligns with your goals and needs.

TPO Roofing

TPO is one of the most widely used flat roofing membranes for commercial buildings today. It’s a single-ply membrane that is heat-welded at the seams, creating a strong, watertight bond across the entire surface.

TPO holds up well in Maryland’s climate and offers good UV resistance. Its reflective white surface helps manage cooling costs during hot summer days, making it a practical choice for buildings where energy efficiency matters.

EPDM Roofing

EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane that has been the commercial roofing standard for decades. It’s flexible, resilient, and performs well across a wide range of temperatures, including Maryland’s cold winters and hot summers.

This material is typically installed in large sheets, which reduces the number of seams and potential failure points. It’s a proven, lower-maintenance option with a long track record on low-slope commercial roofs.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen is a multi-layer asphalt roofing system reinforced with modifiers for improved flexibility and strength. It performs well on roofs with heavier foot traffic from HVAC maintenance or mechanical equipment, a common consideration for commercial buildings in areas like Montgomery County and Washington, D.C.

It’s also a natural fit for older commercial buildings originally constructed with built-up roofing systems. Modified bitumen can be installed using heat application, cold adhesive, or self-adhered methods, depending on the project.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

For commercial buildings with some pitch, standing seam metal provides one of the longest service lives available in commercial roofing. It’s highly resistant to wind, fire, and impact, and requires significantly less maintenance compared to membrane systems.

This is a strong choice for retail and office properties throughout Maryland, where curb appeal matters just as much as long-term performance. While the upfront cost is higher, the return on investment is virtually unmatched.

How to Choose the Right Roof for Your Property

There’s no universal best roofing system for every building. The decision depends on a few key factors:

Your budget for installation and long-term maintenance
How long you plan to own or manage the property
The structure and current condition of the existing roof deck
Whether energy efficiency or minimal maintenance is more important to you
The specific demands of the building — HVAC placement, foot traffic, drainage

Our team can walk you through the options and give you a clear comparison based on what your property actually needs. We don’t push one system over another — we recommend what makes sense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common roofing system for small commercial buildings in Maryland?

TPO and EPDM are among the most widely used options for flat and low-slope commercial buildings. Both are durable, cost-effective, and well-suited for Maryland’s range of seasonal conditions.

How long does a commercial flat roof typically last?

With proper installation and maintenance, TPO and EPDM systems typically last 20 to 30 years.

Can I change roofing systems when I replace my roof?

Yes, but with some limitations. Switching between flat roof types or pitched roof materials is possible, though different materials and systems may have varying structural and compatibility requirements. Moving from a flat roof to a pitched roof, or vice versa, requires significant structural changes and comes at a considerable cost.

Is metal roofing suitable for flat commercial roofs?

Standing seam metal roofing is for low-slope or sloped applications. For completely flat surfaces, membrane systems like TPO or EPDM are the more appropriate choice.

Do you help with material selection?

Yes. We walk you through your available options and explain the trade-offs in plain terms so you can make a confident, informed decision for your property.