Start Googling 'roofs' and you’ll see a lot of lists that compare shingles vs. metal roofs, but what about the forgotten middle child: flat roofs?
Often used for commercial buildings, flat roofs can also be found on garages or sunrooms. The best all-around flat roofing material is TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin), but EPDM (Rubber Roofing) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) may still be the better option for select projects.
Equity Commercial Roofing has helped hundreds of Central PA facility managers choose the best material for their company’s roofs. We’ve sat down to compare costs, maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency hundreds of times—and now we’re sharing it with the internet.
This guide will walk you through the most common flat roofing materials. You’ll be able to make an informed decision based on your structure, climate, budget, and long-term goals.
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Modern flat roofing relies on membrane systems that create a waterproof barrier across your roof surface. Each system has unique characteristics that make it better suited for different applications and budgets.
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin): White reflective membrane with heat-welded seams
Lowest pricing option
Lower long-term maintenance than EPDM
Popular choice for commercial buildings
EPDM (Rubber Roofing): Black rubber membrane with adhesive seams
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Premium membrane with exceptional chemical resistance
Now that you understand the core differences between flat roofing materials, the next question is usually about cost; let’s break down which one fits your budget.
The cheapest option for a flat roof is typically an EPDM (rubber) roof. Understanding both the initial costs and long-term expenses helps you make the most economical choice for your situation.
| Flat Roof Type | Estimated Cost per Square Foot | Key Cost Considerations |
| TPO | $5.00 to $10.00 | • Price varies for mechanically attached (low) vs fully adhered (high) • Heat-welded seams require specialized labor • Better value on larger commercial jobs |
| EPDM (Rubber) | $6.00 to $11.00 | • Price varies for mechanically attached (low) vs fully adhered (high) • Edge details and transitions add complexity |
| PVC | $8.00 to $12.00 | • Premium materials and techniques • Best for demanding (e.g., greasy or chemical) environments |
Each roofing system has different maintenance needs that directly impact your long-term ownership costs and involvement.
| 1–10 Years | 10–15 Years | 15+ Years | Annual Tasks |
| EPDM: Very low maintenance |
Monitor seams and patches as adhesives may weaken | More frequent inspections; possible resealing of seams/patches | • Twice-yearly inspections • Debris removal • Gutter/drain cleaning |
| TPO/PVC: Very low maintenance |
Continue monitoring, though issues are rare | Watch for membrane brittleness and hail damage susceptibility | • Basic inspections • Debris removal • Check for physical damage |
A flat roof will last between 20 to 35 years or more, depending on the material used and if the roof has had regular maintenance.
| Roof Type | Expected Lifespan | Durability Notes |
| EPDM (Rubber) | 25–35 years | • Seams may weaken after 10–15 years • Membrane stays durable with upkeep |
| TPO | 20–30 years | • Heat-welded seams rarely fail • May become brittle or hail-susceptible over time |
| PVC | 25–35+ years | • Excellent chemical and weather resistance • Most reliable heat-welded seams |
While the best material for a flat roof will always depend on the property owner's specific needs and priorities, we generally recommend the following:
Best choice: TPO or PVC
Best choice: EPDM
Best choice: EPDM or TPO
Consider these key factors when choosing your flat roofing system:
If Budget is Your Top Priority: TPO offers the lowest upfront cost, with EPDM following close behind.
If Energy Efficiency is Your Top Priority: Refrigerated buildings, such as cold food storage facilities, will benefit more from TPO. Buildings that produce a lot of humidity and require a warm environment, such as a paper mill, will perform better with EPDM.
If Maximum Durability is Your Top Priority: PVC delivers the longest-lasting performance in demanding environments.
If Long-Term Value is Your Top Priority: Consider both initial costs and maintenance requirements over the expected 20-30 year lifespan.
TPO is typically the cheapest flat roof system, averaging $5.00–$10.00 per square foot. The cost varies depending on if it is mechanically attached (low end of range) vs fully adhered (high end of range)
Flat roofs last 20 to 35+ years, depending on the material. EPDM and PVC both offer lifespans of 25 to 35 years, while TPO typically lasts 20 to 30 years.
In snowy regions like Central Pennsylvania, EPDM is ideal. Its black surface absorbs heat and helps melt snow, reducing ice buildup and structural strain.
TPO and PVC both have heat-welded seams that resist leaks and require minimal maintenance, just seasonal inspections and debris removal.
TPO: Lowest cost, white reflective membrane, energy efficient
EPDM: Lower cost (only slightly more than TPO), rubber membrane with adhesive seams
PVC: Highest cost, premium chemical resistance, best for restaurants or industrial sites
TPO or PVC is best for a commercial roof due to their heat-welded seams, durability, and energy efficiency.
Choosing the best flat roofing system for your property is a balance. Whether you’re a business owner or manage a commercial building, understanding these differences helps you make an informed decision that provides the best long-term value.
Now that you understand your options for a flat roof, it’s time to find the right crew to install it. Review the top 10 Roofing Companies in Central PA, serving both commercial and residential roofing needs. Remember that proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial regardless of which system you choose.
At Equity Roofing and Equity Commercial Roofing, our experience with commercial buildings and flat roof installations ensures your new roof will come out flawless the first time. Contact a member of our team to discuss your project today!