Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions a property owner can make. Whether you’re managing a commercial building in Denver or maintaining a rental property in the Colorado Rockies, your roof must be durable, reliable, and suited to the region’s demanding climate. Colorado brings intense UV exposure, heavy snow loads, hailstorms, and rapid freeze-thaw cycles, conditions that not every roofing material can handle.
With so many options available today, it can be difficult to know which roofing system is best for your building’s needs. Below, we break down the five most common roofing materials, how they perform in Colorado’s climate, and how to choose the right one for long-term performance and value.
1. TPO Roofing: Energy-Efficient and Cost-Effective
Best for: Commercial buildings, warehouses, retail centers, office spaces
Average lifespan: 20–30 years
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) has quickly become one of the most popular flat roofing materials used on commercial properties in Colorado, and for good reason. This single-ply membrane is highly reflective, helping reduce energy costs during Colorado’s sunny summers while withstanding the region’s intense UV exposure.
Benefits of TPO roofing:
- Highly reflective and energy-efficient
- Relatively affordable installation
- Heat-welded seams that create strong waterproofing
- Resistant to UV rays, punctures, and microbial growth
Why it works well in Colorado:
TPO’s flexibility allows it to expand and contract with temperature swings without cracking. It also resists hail impact better than many older systems. For property owners looking for a durable, budget-friendly option, TPO is often the ideal choice.
2. EPDM Roofing: Durable and Proven for Colorado Winters
Best for: Commercial buildings, industrial facilities, multi-unit properties
Average lifespan: 25–40 years
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), often called “rubber roofing,” is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available for flat and low-slope roof systems. Its dark surface absorbs heat, making it especially effective for colder climates.
Benefits of EPDM roofing:
- Long-lasting and highly durable
- Flexible in cold temperatures
- Resistant to hail, UV exposure, and high winds
- Easy to repair and maintain
Why it works well in Colorado:
EPDM roofs handle snow loads extremely well and remain flexible during freeze-thaw cycles. In high-altitude areas like Winter Park or Fraser, where temperatures drop rapidly overnight, EPDM’s elasticity helps prevent cracking, one of the most common causes of leaks.
3. PVC Roofing: High Performance for Demanding Environments
Best for: Restaurants, medical facilities, commercial kitchens, buildings with rooftop exhaust
Average lifespan: 25–35 years
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is considered one of the highest-performing flat roofing materials on the market. It has excellent chemical resistance, making it popular for properties where grease, oils, or harsh exhaust may contact the roof membrane.
Benefits of PVC roofing:
- Exceptional durability and seam strength
- Best-in-class chemical resistance
- High reflectivity for energy savings
- Strong resistance to punctures and fire
Why it works well in Colorado:
PVC’s heat-welded seams create a strong, waterproof bond, ideal for buildings exposed to high winds or heavy snow. For commercial properties with exhaust systems (restaurants, breweries, hospitals), PVC is often the safest and most durable choice.
4. Metal Roofing: The Longest-Lasting Roofing Material
Best for: Commercial buildings, industrial facilities, modern homes
Average lifespan: 40–60+ years
Metal roofing has surged in popularity across Colorado due to its incredible longevity and ability to withstand harsh weather. Standing seam metal roofs are commonly used on both commercial buildings and residential properties with low-slope designs.
Benefits of metal roofing:
- Extremely long lifespan
- Highly resistant to snow, hail, and wind
- Fire-resistant and low-maintenance
- Excellent for shedding snow and ice
- Modern, sleek appearance
Why it works well in Colorado:
Metal roofing is the strongest performer under heavy snow loads and frequent hailstorms. It’s ideal for mountain properties where durability is critical. While it often requires a higher initial investment, its lifespan and reliability make it one of the most cost-effective long-term choices.
5. Modified Bitumen Roofing: A Tried-and-True Multi-Layer System
Best for: Small commercial buildings, older buildings, multi-family units
Average lifespan: 20–25 years
Modified bitumen roofing is a multi-layer asphalt-based system known for its strength and reliability. While it’s one of the older roofing technologies, it continues to perform exceptionally well, especially on buildings that see heavy foot traffic or have unique roof shapes.
Benefits of modified bitumen:
- Durable multi-layer protection
- Strong performance in cold climates
- Great for irregular or smaller roofs
- Easy to repair and maintain
Why it works well in Colorado:
Modified bitumen handles temperature swings well and offers dependable waterproofing. It’s a strong choice for smaller commercial properties or older buildings that require a robust, budget-conscious roofing system.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Material for Your Property
With so many high-performing options available, the right choice depends on your building’s needs, your budget, and your long-term goals.
Here are the key considerations:
1. Climate Performance
Colorado’s climate demands materials that can withstand:
- High UV exposure
- Heavy snow loads
- Hailstorms
- Rapid temperature swings
Metal, EPDM, and PVC typically perform best in the harshest conditions.
2. Roof Slope
Flat and low-slope roofs require materials designed for waterproofing:
- TPO, EPDM, PVC, and modified bitumen
For low-sloped residential designs, flat metal roofs are also highly effective.
3. Budget vs. Longevity
If you’re balancing cost and performance:
- TPO offers excellent value
- EPDM provides long lifespan at moderate cost
- Metal delivers the best long-term investment
4. Property Type
Different properties have different needs:
- Commercial buildings benefit from TPO, EPDM, PVC, and metal
- Residential flat roofs often perform best with EPDM or flat metal roofing
5. Maintenance Expectations
Some materials require less upkeep than others:
- Metal and PVC roofs need minimal maintenance
- Modified bitumen and EPDM need periodic inspections and seam checks
Protect Your Investment with the Right Roofing System
Your roof is a major investment, and choosing the wrong material can cost you in repairs, energy loss, and premature failure. Whether you’re overseeing a commercial building in Denver or maintaining a residential property in the Colorado Rockies, selecting a roofing system that’s built for the climate is essential.
At Integrity Pro Roofing, we specialize in flat and flat metal roofing systems, offering expert recommendations tailored to your building, budget, and long-term goals. Request a free digital roof analysis & estimate today. Proudly serving Winter Park, Fraser, Grand Lake, and the Colorado Rockies with honesty, expertise, and craftsmanship you can trust.
