What Is the Most Common Commercial Roofing? A Deep Dive for New Jersey Property Owners

In the bustling commercial hubs of New Jersey, from Newark to Jersey City, roofing choices are more than aesthetic decisions—they’re long-term financial investments. Business owners, property developers, and facilities managers often ask: What is the most common commercial roofing?

The short answer? Built-Up Roofing (BUR) and Single-Ply Membranes—especially TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)—top the list. But there’s more nuance under the surface. This article explores not just which roofing materials are most widely used across commercial properties in New Jersey, but also why they are preferred—covering cost, climate suitability, durability, and energy efficiency.

With Charles Jimerson of CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, let’s unpack the most common commercial roofing systems and their relevance for New Jersey’s diverse climate, strict building codes, and property value expectations.

The Top Commercial Roofing Types in New Jersey

1. TPO Roofing: The New Jersey Favorite

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) has skyrocketed in popularity over the last two decades. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), TPO is now the most installed commercial roofing system in the United States, and New Jersey is no exception.

Why TPO?

• Energy Efficiency: TPO is highly reflective and meets Energy Star and Cool Roof Rating Council standards—crucial in reducing cooling costs in urban New Jersey areas like Elizabeth, Paterson, and Trenton.
• Durability: It resists UV rays, chemical exposure, and punctures.
• Affordability: TPO offers a balance between performance and cost, often making it the go-to for warehouses, retail centers, and office complexes.

TPO Roofing in Local Context

Commercial builders across central and northern New Jersey, especially near industrial zones in Edison and Linden, often prioritize TPO to reduce operational costs during scorching summers and handle unpredictable winter storms.

2. EPDM Roofing: The Reliable Workhorse

Another top answer to “what is the most common commercial roofing” is EPDM, a black rubber roofing membrane known for its flexibility and longevity.

Why EPDM?

• Longevity: Often lasts 25–30 years with proper maintenance.
• Weather Resistance: Excels in both cold and warm climates—perfect for New Jersey’s four-season swing.
• Low Maintenance: EPDM is forgiving, with repairs often done with liquid adhesives or patches.

EPDM’s Role in New Jersey

Due to its cold-weather resilience, EPDM is popular in northern counties like Bergen, Morris, and Passaic. Its flexibility also makes it ideal for older buildings that may shift subtly over time—a common scenario in historic districts across Hoboken and Princeton.

3. Built-Up Roofing (BUR): The Traditional Choice

Before TPO and EPDM took over, BUR was king. And in many places across South Jersey, particularly in towns like Cherry Hill and Vineland, it still holds sway.

Why BUR?

• Proven Track Record: Over 100 years of commercial use.
• Multiple Layers: Alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics make it durable.
• Fire Resistance: Often comes with top gravel layers that resist ignition.

Where BUR Makes Sense

For larger flat-roofed structures—such as schools, hospitals, and government buildings—BUR remains popular, especially when thermal protection and sound dampening are priorities.

How New Jersey’s Climate Influences Roofing Choices

New Jersey’s weather isn’t just “cold in winter, hot in summer.” It brings:

• Heavy snow loads in the north.
• Salt air humidity near the Atlantic Coastline—from Atlantic City to Long Branch.
• Hurricane remnants and Nor’easters, which demand high wind resistance.

TPO, EPDM, and BUR all meet different needs under this umbrella of challenges. For instance:

• TPO is excellent for energy-efficient buildings near New Brunswick.
• EPDM performs well against snow accumulation in West Milford.
• BUR stands up to wind and debris in coastal cities.

Key Salient Entities and Considerations

Understanding the most common commercial roofing systems means recognizing their interaction with:

• Roof slope (low-slope vs steep-slope)
• Installation complexity and labor availability
• Fire and weather codes enforced by New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA)
• Energy efficiency mandates under NJ Clean Energy Program

From LEED certification credits to insurance eligibility, your roofing choice impacts more than just leaks. It influences your building’s valuation, tenant satisfaction, and operating costs.

New Roofing Trends in New Jersey

While TPO dominates today, emerging trends are pushing toward:

• Green roofs: Especially in urban environments like Jersey City, where stormwater runoff is an issue.
• Photovoltaic roofing: More businesses are combining TPO or PVC membranes with solar panels.
• Silicone coatings: These are often used to extend the life of aging flat roofs across Monmouth County.

If you’re in New Jersey and considering a roof replacement or new installation, ask contractors whether cool roofing, reflective membranes, or energy-efficient retrofits are right for your property.

Choosing the Right Commercial Roofing Contractor in New Jersey

Because each roofing system comes with different benefits, selecting the right commercial roofing contractor in NJ is critical. Look for:

• Certifications from GAF, Firestone, or Carlisle (top commercial membrane manufacturers)
• Experience with local building codes like CJ Commercial Roofing NJ
• Warranties on both labor and materials
• Positive reviews from businesses in your local area (e.g., reviews from commercial clients in Toms River or Hackensack)

Final Thoughts: What Is the Most Common Commercial Roofing?

To answer the question “What is the most common commercial roofing?” definitively for New Jersey:

• TPO Roofing is the current industry leader, especially in energy-conscious commercial developments.
• EPDM Roofing remains a staple for durability and cold-weather resilience.
• BUR Roofing still holds its place in legacy infrastructure and institutional buildings.

Your final decision should account for local climate, building usage, budget, and energy goals—and always be informed by a reputable New Jersey commercial roofer familiar with statewide regulations and environmental demands.