There are eight major families of commercial roofing systems: steep slope, built-up roofs (BUR), modified bitumen, metal, roof coatings, foam, thermoplastic single-ply membranes (TPO and PVC) and thermoset single-ply membranes such as EPDM. Each commercial roofing system has its own performance characteristics and distinct advantages. SMART Roofing is a commercial roofer that has worked extensively to install, maintain and repair each of these roof systems.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and PVC Roof Systems
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) are thermoplastic roof system that are both white and highly reflective roof membranes. These roofs provide excellent weathering characteristics and are highly resistant to ultraviolet light and most chemicals. The membranes have a reinforced scrim and are puncture and tear resistance. Thermoplastic roofs have outstanding seam strength due to the fact the sheets are welded together using hot air. These types of roof systems are lightweight and well suited for second generation (roof-over) applications.
TPO and PVC roof systems are typically installed in one of three methods and provide a lightweight, cost-effective solution:
- Mechanically attached - The roof membrane is affixed to the structural deck with mechanical
- Fully adhered - The membrane is bonded directly to the affixed insulation board or other roofing membrane substrate.
- Point-affixed - Ideal for retrofit installation over metal applications, plates are installed at set intervals and the roof membrane is welded directly to the plates.
EPDM Roof Systems
Ethyline Propolyne Diene Terpolymer (EPDM) is a dimensionally stable membrane that can withstand and resist almost any type of nature-born stress. This single-ply roof membrane, also commonly referred to as a rubber roof system, utilizes carbon black as its the molecular "backbone" which enables it to take on characteristics such as the ability to expand up to 300% yet retain 100% structural memory. EPDM also has excellent weathering resistance and serves as a superb second generation (roof-over) application.
EPDM roof systems are typically installed in one of three methods:
- Mechanically attached - This application provides a lightweight, cost-effective solution whereby the roof membrane is affixed to the structural deck utilizing mechanical anchors.
- Fully adhered - The system is applied by bonding the membrane directly to the affixed insulation board or other roofing membrane substrate.
- Ballasted - Using large sheets and 10 to 12 pounds of rock ballast to hold the membrane in place, this roof system can be the most cost-effective due to the ease and speed of installation. However, this application does require a structural engineer's approval.
Modified Bitumen
Composed of asphalt and reinforced with either polyester or fiberglass, modified bitumen roofs are a blend of traditional and modern roofing technologies. Two different polymers, Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) or Atactic Polypropylene (APP), are used to modify the membrane and impart greater elasticity and temperature flexibility. Since polyester fiberglass fortify the roof system, it exhibits more strength and resistance to punctures and is typically installed in various layers to provide a multi-tier protection system from water, extreme temperatures and wind uplift.
Modified Bitumen Roof Systems do differ in how they are installed on the roof based on the polymer sheet chosen. SBS, a polymer that gives bitumen characteristics similar to rubber, is typically installed with hot asphalt or cold adhesives. APP, a thermoplastic polymer, is almost always installed utilizing the torch method. SMART Roofing’s team of professionals will assess your roof and suggest the best application approach for your facility.
Built-Up Roof (BUR)
Built-Up Roof systems consist of multiple layers of felts, fabrics or mats that are saturated with bitumen, either asphalt or coal tar pitch. The surface of the roof can have a gravel application, a mineral cap sheet or a weather resistant coating to help protect the bitumen and felts from premature weathering.
BUR is one of the oldest low-slope roof systems that are still applied to commercial roofs today. BUR's 120 year track record is unsurpassed in the roofing industry and continues to offer building owners dependable service.
SMART Roofing, Inc. has thousands of square feet of installation experience with these types of roof systems. A SMART Roofing representative can review the performance characteristics associated with the various Modified Bitumen and Built-Up Roof systems so the right roof system can be selected based upon the conditions associated with your individual building.
Featured Commercial Flat Roofing Projects in Chicago's North Shore by Smart Roofing, Inc.
Arlington Heights Commercial Flat Roof Installation
In Arlington Heights, we recently completed a commercial flat TPO roof replacement designed to deliver maximum durability, efficiency, and protection for years to come. The old roofing system had reached the end of its service life, showing signs of wear, ponding water, and seam separation. We replaced it with a high-performance TPO membrane that provides a watertight seal, superior UV resistance, and improved energy efficiency through its reflective surface. The heat-welded seams ensure long-lasting waterproofing, making it a reliable solution for demanding commercial roof applications.
For this TPO roof replacement project, careful planning and precise installation were essential. We coordinated with the building owner to minimize disruptions to daily operations, scheduling work in stages to keep the property fully functional. Proper drainage was addressed to prevent future water accumulation, and all flashings were custom-fabricated for a tight seal at roof edges, walls, and penetrations. The result is a seamless, low-maintenance flat roof replacement that not only protects the building but also reduces operating costs through enhanced energy performance. This new TPO roof will serve the Arlington Heights property dependably for decades.
SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service flat roofing and metal roofing contractor and Carlisle Certified contractor serving Arlington Heights and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Arlington Heights, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Palatine, and Mt. Prospect commercial roofing and residential roofing contractor with plenty of experience with TPO flat roofs, EPDM flat roofs, commercial roof replacements, metal roofs, standing seam roofs, and aluminum gutters. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about Carlisle roofing products and email us for your commercial flat roof replacement, metal roof replacement, and gutter replacement needs.
New Commercial Flat TPO Roof in Lake Forest
Commercial property owners in Lake Forest are choosing TPO flat roof membrane as a smart solution for flat roof replacement and low-slope roof replacement. Known for its strength, energy efficiency, and long service life, a TPO roof is ideal for protecting retail centers, office buildings, and industrial facilities. We recently completed a TPO roof replacement in Lake Forest that not only improved the building’s weather resistance but also enhanced its energy performance with a reflective, heat-resistant surface.
This flat roof replacement provided the client with a seamless, watertight system designed to stand up to heavy rains, strong winds, and seasonal temperature changes. TPO’s heat-welded seams and reinforced membrane make it a low-maintenance option that resists leaks and damage over time. For those seeking a dependable commercial roof in Lake Forest, TPO roofing delivers both immediate and long-term benefits. Smart Roofing specializes in expert TPO roof replacement services, ensuring your building stays protected, efficient, and ready to perform for decades.
SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service flat roofing and metal roofing contractor and Carlisle Certified contractor serving Lake Forest and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Libertyville, Highland Park, and Glencoe commercial roofing and residential roofing contractor with plenty of experience with TPO flat roofs, EPDM flat roofs, commercial roof replacements, metal roofs, standing seam roofs, and aluminum gutters. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about Carlisle roofing products and email us for your commercial flat roof replacement, metal roof replacement, and gutter replacement needs.
New Commercial Flat TPO Roof Replacement in Elk Grove Village
In Elk Grove Village, many businesses are turning to TPO roofing for its durability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Ideal for low-slope and flat roof applications, a TPO roof offers superior resistance to UV rays, punctures, and chemical exposure, making it perfect for warehouses, offices, and other commercial properties. Our recent flat roof replacement in the Elk Grove Village involved installing a high-quality flat TPO roof that provides excellent waterproofing while reflecting heat to reduce cooling costs.
A TPO flat roof replacement not only extends the lifespan of a commercial building but also minimizes maintenance needs over time. The heat-welded seams create a watertight barrier, ensuring reliable protection during heavy rains and harsh weather. For property owners seeking a dependable commercial roof solution, TPO roofing delivers exceptional performance and long-term value. Whether you need a complete flat roof replacement or are considering an upgrade to a TPO roof, Smart Roofing provides expert installation to keep your Elk Grove Village commercial or residential property with a flat roof protected for years to come.
SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service flat roofing and metal roofing contractor and Carlisle Certified contractor serving Elk Grove Village and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Wood Dale and Bensenville commercial roofing contractor with plenty of experience with TPO flat roofs, EPDM flat roofs, commercial roof replacements, metal roofs, standing seam roofs, and aluminum gutters. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about Carlisle roofing products and email us for your commercial flat roof replacement, metal roof replacement, and gutter replacement needs.
Chicago Roof Replacement - New Commercial Flat TPO Roof
Here at Smart Roofing Inc. we are experts with residential and commercial roofs alike. From flat roof maintenance, to complete flat roof replacement, Smart Roofing Inc. knows all the ins and outs of the commercial roof trade, especially in Chicago. Multi-family properties, commercial warehouses, or residential flat roofs are all roofs we have experience replacing or repairing. All single ply-membranes, such as TPO, EPDM, and PVC, along with skylight replacement, and necessary perimeter sheet metal pieces, we have done it all, and with over 25 years of experience in the Chicagoland area.
A commercial roof installation in Chicago requires more manpower, coordination, and strategy than a regular residential roof. Specific building code requirements, architect details, and safety specifications are also very important when replacing a commercial roof in Chicago. Smart Roofing Inc. has experience with all of those elements, having done a multitude of commercial flat roof replacements and roof repairs in Chicago over the last 25 years. Our project managers are very well coordinated and have extensive safety training to ensure the crews doing the work are safe and the building owners are protected. We have been working with architects since we started in the roofing industry, so we know how to get down to the details, which also ensures we follow building codes.
Aside from coordination and attention to detail, Smart Roofing Inc. has the knowledge of working with a variety of commercial flat roof materials needed to get the job done. We have done flat roofs with TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Whether the membranes need to be welded together, TPO and PVC, or adhered together with pressure sensitive adhesive tapes, EPDM, we will make sure that your new roof will not leak and look great. Flat roof replacements often call for new levels of insulation, usually insulation R-value of 30, and most buildings also need tapered insulation to create proper slopes. Creating saddles, or crickets, from tapered insulation to avoid standing water behind curbs is something of a specialty for our guys. We have worked with a variety of methods, such as mechanically attached roof systems, ballasted roof systems, induction welded roof systems, and fully adhered adhered roof systems. Our sheet metal crews have done miles of perimeter flashings for commercial flat or barrel roofs, so you can expect only the best. Every little detail matters when working on a commercial roof, and the professionals at Smart Roofing Inc. know every way to make your roof last as long as possible.
SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor serving Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Chicago Roofing Contractor with plenty of experience with commercial flat roofs. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service, and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404, to learn more, or email us for your residential or commercial roofing needs.
