What is the best flat roofing material for commercial buildings?

TPO roofing is currently the most popular for commercial buildings due to excellent balance of performance, cost, and energy efficiency. It costs $5-8/sq ft, lasts 20-25 years, and white reflective surface reduces cooling costs significantly. PVC roofing ($6-10/sq ft) is best for restaurants or chemical exposure due to superior grease and chemical resistance. EPDM rubber roofing is most economical but less energy-efficient in black. We help you select based on building use, budget, and performance priorities.

How long do TPO and PVC roofs last in coastal areas?

TPO roofs last 20-25 years in Myrtle Beach coastal climate with proper installation and maintenance. PVC roofs last 25-30 years, making them longest-lasting single-ply membrane. Both resist salt-air corrosion, UV degradation, and humidity exceptionally well. EPDM rubber can last 25-30 years. Lifespan depends heavily on installation quality, seam integrity, and regular maintenance. Roofs with standing water or improper drainage fail prematurely. Our installations include proper tapered insulation systems ensuring drainage.

How much does commercial flat roof replacement cost?

Commercial flat roof replacement costs $5-10 per square foot depending on material and installation method. TPO averages $5-8/sq ft. PVC runs $6-10/sq ft. EPDM costs $4-7/sq ft. For a 10,000 sq ft commercial building, expect $50,000-$100,000 including tear-off, insulation, new membrane, and flashing. Prices vary based on roof access, penetrations (HVAC units, pipes), existing damage, and insulation upgrades. Recovering over existing roof (when possible) saves 20-30% vs complete tear-off.

What is the difference between TPO and PVC roofing?

Both are thermoplastic single-ply membranes with heat-welded seams, but differ in key ways: TPO costs less ($5-8/sq ft vs $6-10/sq ft for PVC), has 20-25 year lifespan (vs 25-30 for PVC), and is widely used for general commercial applications. PVC offers superior chemical, grease, and fire resistance—making it ideal for restaurants, hospitals, and manufacturing. PVC is more flexible in cold weather. Both are highly reflective and energy-efficient. TPO is most cost-effective for standard applications; PVC for demanding environments.

Can flat roofs withstand hurricanes and heavy rain?

Yes, when properly installed with appropriate wind uplift ratings. Modern flat roofing systems are engineered and tested for high-wind hurricane zones. Mechanically attached and fully adhered systems provide superior wind resistance compared to ballasted. Proper edge termination and seam strength are critical. We install systems meeting Miami-Dade hurricane requirements. Heavy rain requires proper drainage—ponding water dramatically shortens roof life. All our flat roofs include tapered insulation systems directing water to drains. Scuppers provide emergency overflow protection.

Do white flat roofs really save energy?

Absolutely! White TPO and PVC roofs reflect 70-85% of solar energy (vs 5-15% for dark roofs), reducing rooftop surface temperatures by 50-80°F. This translates to 25-40% cooling cost reduction for commercial buildings with significant flat roof area. ENERGY STAR certified systems qualify for utility rebates and tax incentives. In Myrtle Beach's hot climate, reflective roofing typically pays for itself through energy savings within 5-10 years. The larger the roof, the greater the savings. Essential for reducing AC costs in commercial buildings.

How often should commercial flat roofs be maintained?

Commercial flat roofs require semi-annual inspections (spring and fall) plus post-storm checks. Maintenance includes clearing drains and scuppers, removing debris, inspecting seams and flashings, addressing ponding water, and repairing minor damage before it spreads. Regular maintenance extends roof life 30-50%—turning a 20-year roof into 30+ years. We offer maintenance contracts starting at $500-2,000 annually depending on roof size. Preventive maintenance costs 10-20% of reactive repairs and prevents business disruption from emergency leaks.

Can you install solar panels on flat roofs?

Yes! Flat roofs are ideal for solar installations. TPO and PVC membranes are compatible with ballasted solar racking systems (no roof penetrations) and attached systems. We coordinate with solar installers to ensure proper flashing, maintain warranty coverage, and verify structural capacity. Consider installing solar during roof replacement for maximum efficiency. White reflective roofing under solar panels enhances performance by reflecting light back to panel undersides. Many commercial buildings combine energy-efficient roofing with solar for maximum sustainability and cost savings.

TPO, PVC & FLAT ROOFING SYSTEMS

Professional flat and low-slope roofing solutions for commercial and residential properties featuring energy-efficient membrane systems built for coastal durability.

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Professional TPO, PVC & Flat Roofing Systems in Myrtle Beach, SC

Flat and low-slope roofing requires specialized expertise and materials distinct from traditional pitched roofs. Weather Shield Roofing provides complete flat roofing solutions for commercial buildings, modern homes, and roof additions throughout Myrtle Beach. We specialize in TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), EPDM (rubber), and built-up roofing systems that deliver decades of watertight performance.

Modern single-ply membrane roofing systems have revolutionized flat roof performance. TPO roofing combines affordability with excellent durability, costing $5-8 per square foot with 20-25 year lifespans. PVC roofing offers premium performance at $6-10 per square foot with superior chemical resistance and 25-30 year longevity. Both feature bright white reflective surfaces that reduce cooling costs by 25-40%—critical for commercial buildings with extensive flat roof areas.

Weather Shield Roofing's commercial roofing division has completed hundreds of flat roof projects including retail centers, office buildings, warehouses, restaurants, and multi-family housing. We're certified installers for GAF, Firestone, Carlisle, and Johns Manville flat roofing systems. Every installation includes proper drainage design, insulation upgrades, flashing details, and manufacturer-backed warranties. Our preventive maintenance programs extend roof life and protect your investment.

Why Choose Weather Shield for TPO, PVC & Flat Roofing Systems?

Energy-efficient white membrane options

Lower cost per square foot than sloped roofs

20-30 year manufacturer warranties

Excellent for commercial applications

Heat-welded seams (TPO/PVC) prevent leaks

Puncture and tear resistant

UV and ozone resistant

Quick installation minimizes business disruption

Renewable and recyclable materials

Multiple installation methods (mechanically attached, fully adhered, ballasted)

Excellent wind uplift resistance

Compatible with rooftop HVAC and solar

Our Proven Process

Roof Assessment & Design

Comprehensive evaluation of existing roof condition, drainage, insulation R-value, and structural capacity. System selection (TPO vs PVC vs EPDM) based on budget, performance needs, and building use.

Preparation & Tearoff

Remove existing roofing if necessary. Inspect and repair roof deck. Install new tapered insulation system for proper drainage. Ensure all penetrations are properly addressed.

Membrane Installation

Professional installation of TPO, PVC, or EPDM membrane using mechanically attached, fully adhered, or ballasted method. Proper overlap and seam preparation.

Seam Welding & Detailing

Hot-air welding of all seams (TPO/PVC) creates monolithic waterproof barrier. Custom flashing fabrication around HVAC units, pipes, drains, and roof edges. Termination bar installation.

Quality Assurance

Comprehensive inspection of all seams, flashings, and penetrations. Flood testing of drains. Final walkthrough and warranty documentation. Maintenance plan recommendation.

Service Features

Flat Roofing Material Options

TPO (economical, reflective, durable), PVC (premium, chemical-resistant, longest-lasting), EPDM (rubber, flexible, proven track record), Built-Up (traditional tar & gravel).

TPO Roofing Systems

Most popular commercial flat roofing. White reflective surface reduces cooling costs 25%+. Heat-welded seams prevent leaks. Excellent puncture resistance. Cost-effective at $5-8/sq ft.

PVC Roofing Systems

Premium flat roofing with 25-30 year lifespan. Superior chemical, grease, and fire resistance. Ideal for restaurants, hospitals, manufacturing. Highly reflective for energy savings.

EPDM Rubber Roofing

Proven 50+ year track record. Excellent flexibility withstands expansion/contraction. UV and ozone resistant. Available in black (heat-absorbing) or white (reflective). Most affordable option.

Installation Methods

Mechanically attached (fastest, wind-resistant), fully adhered (strongest, best wind uplift), ballasted (economical, re-roofing friendly). We recommend best method for your building.

Commercial Expertise

Specialized in minimizing business disruption. After-hours and weekend installation available. Proper coordination with facility managers. All work fully insured and bonded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Get Your TPO, PVC & Flat Roofing Systems Done?

Don't wait until small issues become major problems. Our expert technicians are ready to help protect your home with quality roofing solutions.

Special Offers:

• Free Professional Roof Inspections
• Insurance Claim Assistance
• Financing Options Available
• Lifetime Warranty Options

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Investment Range

$5-10 per sq ft installed

Factors affecting cost:

•Size and complexity
•Material selection
•Current condition

Free inspection available

Business Hours

Regular Hours:

Mon-Fri: 7:00am - 5:00pm

Sat: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Sun: Closed

Service Area:

Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach

Surfside Beach

All of Grand Strand

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