Choosing the right commercial roofing system for your Calgary property is a crucial business decision. With Alberta’s challenging weather conditions, you need a solution that provides long-lasting protection without breaking your budget. At Silverback Torch On Systems, we help business owners understand their options and make informed decisions about their roofing investments.
The Most Popular Flat Roofing Systems in Calgary
Modified Bitumen (Torch-On) Roofing
What it is: A rubber-like material reinforced with fiberglass and topped with stone granules. It’s typically installed in multiple layers that are heat-fused together, creating a seamless, waterproof membrane.
Best for: Medium-sized commercial buildings, especially in areas with high foot traffic or where mechanical equipment access is needed.
Benefits:
- Excellent durability in Calgary’s extreme temperatures (-40°C to +35°C)
- Strong resistance to tears and punctures from maintenance traffic
- Generally lasts 15-20 years with proper maintenance
- Cost-effective installation compared to some alternatives
- Multiple layers provide redundant waterproofing protection
- Proven track record in Calgary’s climate for decades
Considerations:
- Requires professional installation by experienced flat roof contractors
- Installation involves open flames, requiring appropriate safety measures
- Regular maintenance needed to maximize lifespan
- Darker surface absorbs heat, which can impact cooling costs
- More seams than single-ply alternatives
Calgary climate factor: Modified bitumen performs exceptionally well in Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycles due to its flexibility and multi-layered protection. It can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations without compromising waterproofing integrity.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
What it is: A single-ply reflective roofing membrane made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It’s typically heat-welded at the seams to create a consistent, watertight surface.
Best for: Large commercial facilities and businesses focused on energy efficiency. Ideal for buildings where cooling costs are a significant concern.
Benefits:
- Energy-efficient white surface reflects UV rays, reducing cooling costs
- Resistant to dirt accumulation and bacterial growth
- Can last 20+ years when properly installed
- Environmentally friendly option with recyclable materials
- Fewer seams than modified bitumen systems
- Chemical resistance makes it ideal for restaurants or manufacturing facilities
- Lightweight system that doesn’t add significant load to the structure
Considerations:
- Installation quality is crucial for performance, especially at seams and details
- Higher initial cost than some other options
- Relatively new material compared to traditional systems
- Potential for shrinkage over time if improperly installed
- May be punctured by sharp objects
Calgary climate factor: TPO’s reflective surface helps reduce heat absorption during Calgary’s sunny summer days. However, installation during cold weather requires special attention to ensure proper seam welding.
EPDM (Rubber Roofing)
What it is: A synthetic rubber roofing membrane (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) installed as a single-ply system. It’s typically adhered or mechanically attached to the roof substrate.
Best for: Large commercial buildings with minimal roof penetrations. Performs well on warehouse facilities and large retail structures.
Benefits:
- Excellent resistance to UV radiation and ozone
- Performs well in extreme temperatures with exceptional flexibility
- Simple installation process compared to other systems
- Long lifespan of 20-30 years when properly maintained
- Fewer seams than multi-ply systems
- Highly resistant to hail damage
- Easy to repair if damaged
Considerations:
- Dark color absorbs heat (not ideal for energy efficiency)
- More vulnerable to punctures than some alternatives
- Seams require special attention during installation
- Not recommended for restaurants or areas with grease exposure
- May shrink over time, putting stress on perimeter attachments
Calgary climate factor: EPDM’s exceptional elasticity allows it to accommodate the extreme temperature fluctuations Calgary experiences throughout the year. It remains flexible even in the coldest winter conditions.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
What it is: A traditional roofing system composed of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt) and reinforcing fabrics that create a finished membrane, typically topped with gravel for protection.
Best for: Buildings where durability and longevity are primary concerns, especially those with minimal slope or drainage challenges.
Benefits:
- Extremely durable, with some systems lasting 30+ years
- Multiple layers provide redundant protection
- Excellent for low-slope applications
- Highly resistant to foot traffic and maintenance activities
- Gravel surface provides fire resistance and UV protection
- Time-tested performance in Calgary’s climate
Considerations:
- Heavy system that may require structural considerations
- Higher installation costs due to labor intensity
- Longer installation time than single-ply systems
- Strong asphalt odors during installation
- More difficult to identify leak sources if problems develop
- Less environmentally friendly than newer alternatives
Calgary climate factor: BUR systems handle Calgary’s heavy snowfall well due to their weight and durability. The multiple layers provide excellent insulation properties for our cold winters.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your System
The best commercial roofing companies in Calgary will help you evaluate:
- Building use and occupancy
- Is this a warehouse, office, or retail space?
- Will there be frequent roof access?
- Are there special considerations like restaurant exhaust or chemical emissions?
- How sensitive are interior operations to potential leaks?
- Budget considerations
- Initial installation cost vs. long-term value
- Energy efficiency savings potential
- Maintenance requirements and associated costs
- Expected lifespan in Calgary’s climate
- Potential for phased replacement
- Environmental factors
- Calgary’s extreme temperature swings (-40°C to +35°C)
- Snow load concerns and drainage requirements
- Potential for hail damage and storm resilience
- Sun exposure and UV radiation intensity
- Local wind conditions and uplift concerns
- Warranty options
- Material warranties (typically 10-30 years)
- Workmanship guarantees
- What maintenance is required to maintain coverage
- Transferability if you sell the property
- Coverage limitations and exclusions
Commercial Roof Maintenance: Essential for Any System
No matter which system you choose, regular maintenance is critical. Industrial roofing contractors should offer maintenance programs that include:
- Bi-annual inspections (spring and fall)
- Drainage system cleaning and testing
- Seam inspections and preventative repairs
- Documentation of roof condition
- Prompt attention to any developing issues
Proper maintenance can extend your roof’s life by 25-50%, representing significant savings over time. Most manufacturer warranties actually require regular professional maintenance to remain valid.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
In Calgary’s climate, roofing choices significantly impact energy costs:
- Reflective membranes (like TPO) can reduce summer cooling costs by 15-30%
- Additional insulation during roof replacement provides year-round energy benefits
- Proper drainage prevents ice damming and associated heat loss
- Air barrier integrity prevents energy loss through air leakage
Many building owners find that energy savings alone can justify upgrading to more efficient roofing systems, especially for older buildings with minimal existing insulation.
Get Expert Advice for Your Building
Every commercial building has unique needs based on its design, use, and location. At Silverback Torch On Systems, we provide customized recommendations based on your specific situation. As one of the leading Calgary flat roofing companies, we install and maintain all major commercial roofing systems.
Our process includes:
- Comprehensive roof assessment
- Budget-conscious recommendations
- Energy efficiency analysis
- Life-cycle cost projections
- Clear explanation of options
Contact us today for an assessment of your commercial property and discover the roofing solution that offers the best value and protection for your business. Our experienced team serves businesses throughout Calgary with high-quality commercial roofing services designed for our unique climate challenges.