What is a Membrane Roof?

If you’ve been researching options for your commercial roofing project, you’ve probably come across the term membrane roof and wondered what exactly that means. At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping businesses choose the right roofing solutions for over 40 years, so we understand how confusing roofing terminology can sometimes feel. Let us break it down for you. 

Simply put, a membrane roof refers to a type of commercial roofing system made from synthetic materials designed to protect your building from the elements. These roofs are known for their flexibility, durability, and ability to provide long-term protection against roof leaks and weather damage. The most common types of membrane roofs include EPDM, TPO, and PVC. 

What are the different types of membrane roofing systems? 

When you hear membrane roof, it typically refers to one of three primary materials used in commercial roofing systems: 

What is EPDM roofing? 

EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. It’s a synthetic rubber compound that has been used in commercial roofing for decades. Because of its long track record, EPDM is often considered the traditional membrane roofing material. It offers excellent flexibility and durability, making it a great option for a wide range of commercial buildings. EPDM roofs are typically black, which helps with heat absorption in colder climates. 

What is TPO roofing? 

TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. This is a newer type of membrane roof that combines some characteristics of rubber with thermoplastic properties. TPO roofs are typically white or light-colored, which helps reflect sunlight and can reduce cooling costs for your building. At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, TPO roofing is one of the most popular options we install. In fact, 60 to 70% of our reroofing projects use TPO because of its excellent performance, energy efficiency, and cost savings over time. 

What is PVC roofing?

PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. This membrane contains more plastic polymers, making it highly durable and resistant to chemicals, grease, and fire. PVC roofing is a great option for buildings such as restaurants or manufacturing facilities where chemical resistance is important. Like TPO, PVC roofs are usually white, which also offers energy-saving benefits. 

How thick are membrane roofs? 

One of the key factors in determining the durability and lifespan of a membrane roof is the thickness of the material. Membrane roofs typically come in various thicknesses, including 45 mil, 60 mil, 80 mil, 90 mil, and even up to 115 mils in specialized applications like fleece-backed systems. Generally, the thicker the membrane, the more durable and longer-lasting it will be. 

Thicker membranes often come with extended warranties as well—ranging from 15 years for thinner options to 30 years for the thickest membranes. This is an important consideration when you’re thinking about your roof investment protection. 

What are the advantages of membrane roofing? 

Membrane roofs offer many benefits for commercial property owners, investors, and managers: 

• Durability: Designed to withstand extreme weather and temperature changes. 

• Flexibility: Perfect for buildings with low-slope or flat roof designs. 

• Leak prevention: Fewer seams mean fewer opportunities for roof leaks. 

• Energy efficiency: Reflective options like TPO and PVC can lower cooling costs. 

• Low maintenance: With regular roof inspections and care, these systems provide long-lasting performance. 

When combined with a proactive maintenance program like our Max Life Roof Care™ program, a membrane roof can significantly extend your roof lifespan and lower your total cost of ownership. 

How do I know which membrane roofing system is right for my building? 

Choosing the right commercial roofing membrane depends on several factors, including: 

• The type of building you have. 

• How your building is used (industrial, retail, office, etc.). 

• Your local climate. 

• Your budget. 

• Your long-term maintenance and performance expectations. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we guide you through this process by conducting thorough roof inspections and understanding your specific needs. We don’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach—our goal is to help you make the best roofing choice for your situation. 

Can a membrane roof save me money in the long run? 

Yes. While membrane roofs might seem like a larger upfront investment compared to other options, they often provide significant roof cost savings over time. Their energy efficiency can reduce utility bills, and when combined with consistent roof maintenance and inspections, they can prevent expensive emergency roof repairs down the line. 

Plus, a well-maintained membrane roof can help avoid disruptions to your business caused by roof leaks or structural damage—protecting both your assets and your bottom line. 

If you’re still unsure about whether a membrane roof is right for your building, or if you want to learn more about commercial roofing systems in general, we’re here to help. At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we are committed to providing honest, cost-efficient solutions that protect your roofing investment. 

Ready to get answers about your roofing project? Reach out to us today and let’s start the conversation.