Commercial Roofing Systems Compared in NJ: Finding the Right Fit

Finding the Right Roofing System for Your NJ Business

Your commercial roof does more than protect your property—it directly impacts your energy efficiency, maintenance costs, and long-term asset value. With New Jersey’s mix of snow, sun, wind, and rain, it’s critical to choose a roofing system that performs under local conditions.

At Golden Master Roofing, we help business owners across the state evaluate systems that fit their building type, usage, and budget. If you're just beginning the process, explore our commercial roofing services in New Jersey to get familiar with materials, project timelines, and our process.

TPO Roofing: Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems on the market—and for good reason. It combines affordability with high energy performance, making it ideal for businesses looking to reduce cooling costs.

TPO Pros:

• Reflective white surface reduces solar heat gain
• Resistant to UV exposure, chemicals, and punctures
• Welded seams provide strong waterproofing
• Often eligible for energy-efficiency incentives

TPO is especially effective for flat or low-slope buildings and is recognized by the Cool Roof Rating Council for its reflectivity.

EPDM Roofing: Durable and Time-Tested

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber membrane that’s been used in commercial applications for decades. It’s known for its long service life and excellent resistance to UV radiation and weathering.

EPDM Pros:

• Flexible in cold weather—ideal for New Jersey winters
• Long-lasting (20–30+ years with maintenance)
• Easy to install and repair
• Available in black (heat absorbing) or white (reflective) versions

EPDM works well on warehouses, offices, and institutional buildings that need durable performance without high upfront costs.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR): Traditional and Resilient

BUR, or Built-Up Roofing, consists of multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric topped with gravel or a protective surface. It’s one of the oldest commercial roofing systems still in use today.

BUR Pros:

• Excellent fire and UV resistance
• Strong protection against foot traffic and heavy equipment
• Redundant layers provide long-term durability
• Ideal for large commercial and industrial buildings

BUR systems require regular inspections and maintenance, but their performance in demanding environments makes them a popular choice for property managers across the Northeast.

Metal Roofing: Sustainable and Low Maintenance

Metal roofs are becoming more common in commercial construction due to their longevity and architectural flexibility. Common materials include steel, aluminum, and coated copper systems.

Metal Roofing Pros:

• Lifespan of 40–70 years
• High wind, hail, and fire resistance
• Reflective coatings reduce cooling loads
• Can integrate with solar panel systems

Metal is particularly well-suited for commercial buildings with long roof spans or where visual appeal and energy efficiency are top priorities. For comparison against other materials in extreme weather, check out our asphalt vs. metal roofing guide.

How to Choose the Right System for Your Building

Selecting the right system involves more than comparing costs. Consider:

• Building usage (e.g., retail, industrial, medical)
• Roof slope and size
• Local climate and snow load
• Long-term maintenance expectations
• Energy efficiency goals

Refer to NRCA guidelines for standards on commercial roofing design and installation best practices.

At Golden Master Roofing, we help business owners evaluate each of these factors to create a recommendation based on both performance and value.

Let's Build a Roof That Lasts

Don’t wait until leaks or wear force an emergency replacement. Whether you're building new or replacing an aging roof, our licensed commercial roofing team will guide you through every step—from evaluation to installation.

Schedule a commercial roofing consultation today and get expert support on choosing the best system for your property.