Commercial Roofing Materials & Average Life Expectancy

How long will your commercial roof last? That depends greatly upon which materials you choose. In this infographic from Skywalker Roofing, we’ll survey 13 roofing material options with their respective lifespans.

Commercial Roofing Materials & Their Longevity

Choosing the right material is essential when planning your commercial roof. Here’s a sample of what we cover in the infographic:

1. Build-Up Roof

One of the oldest commercial roofing methods, these roofs are created from layers of roofing felt and asphalt set in bitumen. They deliver an average life expectancy of 15-20 years.

2. Silicon Roof

The silicon is converted to a spray and then literally sprayed on, creating a seamless roof. The average life expectancy is up to 20 years.

3. PVC Roofing

PVC is resistant, delivers effective UV protection, and is also fairly flexible. If properly installed, a PVC commercial roof can last 20-30 years.

4. TPO Roofing

TPO is a popular choice for flat roofs, thanks to its price point and reliable performance. It offers very good UV protection and helps reflect infrared heat, too. The average life expectancy is around 25 years.

5. Solar Roofs

Newer technologies build solar energy absorption into the roofing materials themselves. These new solar roofing materials have a listed life expectancy of 25+ years, but could potentially last much longer.

6. Slate Roofs

Looking for a natural, beautiful, lifetime roof? Slate has been used in roofing systems for centuries. Slate isn’t cheap, but it could make sense for your commercial roof. The average lifespan is 40-50 years.

7. Metal Roofing

Metal is a great choice for residential and commercial roofs alike. It’s long-lasting and needs little maintenance. With a good enamel protection system, a metal roof can last a lifetime.

Check out the full infographic from Skywalker Roofing for all the details!