Roofing Wisdom from a Dentist: Top 5 Commercial Roofs in Fort Worth, TX

As a business owner, are you concerned about your commercial roof? 

Let’s face it: weather conditions in Fort Worth aren’t the prettiest. 

Mostly, it is sunny. But, the place does get struck by harsh weather conditions like heavy rain, storms, and hail. 

According to Dallas News, the hail storm that had occurred around May ‘2023 resulted in damage of one billion dollars, which includes a lot of residential and commercial roofs. 

This area is prone to harsh weather conditions. 

Many more will follow, as history suggests. 

But imagine having a roof that can withstand such harsh conditions and save your money from another replacement. Wouldn’t you like that?

At American Dream Roofing, we can install a roofing system that can serve your business for many years. 

What are the Best Commercial Roof Types in Fort Worth, Texas? 

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer)

In the United States, the EPDM roofing system is the most popular for commercial purposes. 

The material is a synthetic rubber membrane that offers long-lasting durability and superior protection against harsh weather conditions. 

Manufacturers produce EPDM in three thicknesses: 45, 60, and 90 thousandth inches. 

Contractors commonly use the 60 thousandths of an inch. 

It is sold in wide rolls of eight to twenty feet, requiring fewer seams. 

EPDM has been serving millions of commercial spaces for the past 40 years. 

Pros 

• The installation process is simple; you must use the anchors, adhesives, and rollers.  
• Depending on your property’s requirements, the membrane can be loosely laid or fully adhered to the roof surface. 
• EPDM roofs require minimal maintenance, reducing overall costs for building owners over time. Compared to other materials, it weighs comparatively much less. 
• This roofing system is known for its energy efficiency properties. 
• The rubber membrane effectively insulates against heat transfer between interior and exterior environments.

Cons

• EPDM systems can be done within a reasonable budget.
• The ultraviolet rays degrade the adhesives used on seams and flashing, causing premature separation. 
• The black membrane of the material absorbs the ultraviolet light, causing shrinkage and brittleness, decreasing its lifespan faster than expected. 
• During the installation process, protective mats are needed. This is because the thin membranes of EPDM are easily susceptible to punctures due to foot traffic on sharp objects.  
• As Fort Worth is prone to harsh weather conditions, repairs to flashing and seams can be required long before the warranty expires. 

TPO

TPO is a type of roofing material that is a single-ply membrane. 

It is made from a combination of rubber and plastic polymers, designed to provide excellent durability, flexibility, and energy efficiency for commercial buildings.

Manufacturers produce in rolls of four to twelve feet at a thickness of 45, 60, and 90 thousandths of inches. 

Like EPDM, TPO is also popular among contractors and commercial space owners. 

Pros

• Unlike the other materials, TPO seams are welded. It means the seams are less likely to be separated. 
• This roofing system can reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. 
• It helps to lower cooling costs during the hot summer months in Fort Worth. 
• It improves energy efficiency by reducing the strain on HVAC systems. 
• Additionally, TPO roofs offer superior resistance against weather elements such as UV rays, ozone, chemicals, and punctures. It makes them an ideal option for buildings in Fort Worth, as it is prone to harsh weather conditions. 
• Due to its lightweight nature and flexibility, TPO membranes can be installed quickly and efficiently using heat-welding or adhesive bonding methods. 
• The versatility of TPO membranes also allows easy customization to fit various roof shapes and sizes.

Cons

• First, it is relatively recent since it has been around for the past 20 years, unlike EPDM, which has been around for a few decades. 
• Its track record shows several revisions and improvements needed due to surface and seam failure. 
• It would be best to have an experienced contractor calibrating their welding machines properly. Improper can lead to seams coming loose and, in the worst case scenario, a water infiltration. 
• Also, since Fort Worth is known for excessive heat, it causes ultraviolet degradation on the material. 
• The TPO system is known to shrink, and its rigidity can cause stress on the themes and flashing. 

Modified Bitumen

Bitumen Modified Roofing System, also known as Polymer-Modified Bitumen (PMB). 

This system combines traditional asphalt with polymer modifiers. As a result, it creates a roof that can withstand extreme conditions. 

It can be combined to create two or three-ply membranes; it is the best commercial roofing system with a 40-year guarantee. 

Manufacturers produce PMB in two thicknesses, 0.12 and 0.18 inches. Each roll is three feet wide and can be up to thirty-six feet long. 

Pros

• It possesses excellent flexibility and resistance to temperature fluctuations; it does not matter whether it is hot or cold. Suitable option for Fort Worth. 
• Polymers impart elasticity to the asphalt, allowing it to expand and contract without cracking or deteriorating. 
• These roofs are less prone to leaks and damage caused by thermal stress.
• It offers exceptional waterproofing properties. 
• The polymer modifiers improve the viscosity of bitumen, enhancing its ability to fill cracks and crevices effectively. 
• It prevents water infiltration and ensures long-lasting protection against moisture-related issues such as mold growth or structural damage.
• The membrane is embedded with granular ceramics to protect it from ultraviolet degradation. 
• The seams are fused with high heat to prevent any separation in the near future. 
• Unlike EPDM & TPO, PMB can sustain heavy foot traffic due to its two-ply system. 
• It can be installed over an existing one with minimal preparation. But, if needed, a complete overhaul can be done as well. 

Cons

• The problem with PMB is it requires highly qualified and trained roofers to execute the project. 
• Adding each layer of the roof can be expensive on large roofs. Compared to EPDM and TPO, it costs a bit more. 
• Since the modified bitumen membrane comes in black, it can absorb quite a lot of heat. But, there are other color options to choose from. 

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

The Built Up Roofing system is known as tar and gravel roofs. 

BUR is a roofing system made of asphalt and felt layers, offering superior weather protection.

It can create a seamless membrane by applying hot asphalt between each layer, which ensures a water-tight seal.

However, how BUR has been in service has changed over the years. 

• Nowadays, contractors use advanced membranes infused with polymers or fiberglass to improve strength and flexibility. 
• The latest modifications allow the roof to withstand heavy foot traffic, extreme temperature fluctuations, and even resist fire damage. 
• It is resistant to UV rays to prevent cracking and fading. 
• BUR offers exceptional insulation properties. 
• The multiple layers ensure superior thermal efficiency by reducing heat transfer through the roof structure. 
• It produces significant energy savings for building owners while providing comfortable indoor temperatures all year round.
• It is also quite easy to repair. Additional layers and asphalt can easily patch the damage. 

Cons

• However, BUR is heavier compared to other roof systems and may require additional reinforcements to be installed. 
• It has a shorter lifespan, lasting only 10 to 20 years; it will depend on the maintenance and the weather. And Fort Worth’s weather will test its limit very well. 
• During installation, BUR can transmit odors and fumes that may require additional ventilation support. 

Shingle Roofing

Shingle roofing systems are well-known for residential properties but can also work for commercial buildings. 

The commonly used shingle is used not just in Texas but in America; it is the asphalt. 

Millions of roofs are installed with asphalt. But whether or not, for your business, it is a decent option will depend on various factors. 

If you decide to go with asphalt, it must be high-quality, such as the Owens Corning three-tab. 

On the premium hand, you have the option of metal roofs. Very durable and lasting, but comes with a price.

Pros

• It is very cost-effective. Expensive options are available, too. 
• Compared to other roofing systems like PMB, it has a lower upfront cost. 
• As a business owner, if you are on a budget, a shingle roofing system suits you. 
• Shingles are simple to install and require less labor than complex roofing systems.
• Commercial space owners can choose from various shingle colors, styles, and textures to match their brand image and enhance their property’s visual appeal. 
• It provides excellent durability and protection against harsh weather conditions, depending on the quality of the shingle. 
• High-quality shingles resist moisture penetration and withstand heavy rain or snowfall without sustaining damage. 
• With proper maintenance and inspections, it can last up to 20 years or more. 

Cons

• The problem with the shingle system is its limited lifespan. 
• While shingle roofs may be suitable for residential properties, they are not designed to withstand the constant foot traffic and extreme weather conditions common in commercial areas.
• Unlike other roofing materials such as metal or membrane systems, shingles do not provide adequate insulation and can allow heat to escape during cold winters or enter during hot summers. 
• Businesses may experience higher utility bills as they try to regulate indoor temperatures using heating and cooling systems, as they don’t provide proper insulation. 

Conclusion: Modified Bitumen Best Choice

For most commercial buildings, we recommend Modified Bitumen (MB). 

It might cost a bit initially, but if the roofing system is implemented properly, it can serve for the next decades. 

At American Dream Roofing, we have the expertise to perform these projects. 

We have completed hundreds of roofing projects for business spaces in the past ten years. 

Feel free to contact us for a free-of-charge inspection.