Picking the right commercial roofing system isn’t just about looks or materials — it’s a bit more involved than that. For people responsible for keeping buildings watertight and energy-efficient, it often comes down to matching the roof to how the building works. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, especially when budgets, climates, and long-term upkeep all pull in different directions.
This guide walks through five types of commercial roofs that you’ll often come across. Whether you’re exploring flat roof systems or leaning towards something with eco-appeal like green roofing, you’ll get a clear, no-nonsense overview. By the end, you’ll be better placed to spot which options deserve a closer look — and which might not be quite right for your setup.
Flat Roofs
Flat roof systems are, more or less, the go-to choice for commercial buildings. They’ve been used for years on warehouses, office blocks, and other large spaces — mainly because they make practical sense. There’s less material involved, and that usually means lower costs and quicker installs. Plus, they offer easy access for maintenance teams, solar panels, or even rooftop plant equipment.
One of the more flexible solutions within this category is liquid flat roofing. It’s applied like a coating, so it forms a seamless, waterproof layer over the roof. That makes it especially useful for awkward layouts or older surfaces where joins might otherwise cause leaks.
In general, flat roofs are a solid choice for bigger buildings that need reliable, easy-to-maintain coverage — without overcomplicating things with pitch or tile work.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing systems, often made from steel or aluminium, aren’t just tough — they’re built to last. In fact, a well-installed metal roof could stay in place for decades with very little fuss. That kind of lifespan makes them a smart pick for industrial buildings or places where regular access for repairs isn’t ideal.
Standing seam panels are a common design here — they interlock tightly to keep out water and wind, which is handy in exposed areas. There’s also the added bonus of fire resistance and low ongoing maintenance. You’re not likely to find much in the way of moss or cracking.
That said, metal can come at a higher upfront cost. It’s also not the quietest during heavy rain, and there’s some thermal movement to factor in when temperatures swing. Still, for a clean, robust option that doesn’t need constant attention, metal roofing systems might be the right call — especially where resilience is a top priority.
Green Roofs
Out of all the types of commercial roofs, green roofing is the one that turns heads — literally and figuratively. It’s not just about looking good either. These systems involve a layer of vegetation installed over a waterproof membrane, and they bring some clear environmental perks with them.
Green roofs help absorb rainwater, reduce heat in urban spaces, and add a layer of insulation. That can shave off energy costs and ease the burden on drainage systems. For city-centre buildings or organisations chasing sustainability goals, they tick a lot of boxes.
Aesthetically, they soften the look of hard, urban rooftops and can even double as quiet garden spaces. Still, they do need the right setup underneath. Good drainage and waterproofing are non-negotiable.
Pitched Roofs
You don’t see pitched roofing options on big commercial blocks too often — but that doesn’t mean they’re out of the question. Converted homes used for business, heritage sites, or smaller offices sometimes stick with traditional slopes. And in those cases, the pitched design brings a few advantages to the table.
For one, drainage is pretty effortless. Rain runs straight off, which reduces pooling and potential water damage. You’re also looking at a broader mix of materials — clay tiles, slate, even metal — which can suit certain planning requirements or match older surroundings.
That said, installation and maintenance tend to be a little trickier and more expensive than flat alternatives. So while pitched roofs aren’t the default in commercial settings, they still hold their own where looks and function need to meet in the middle.
Built-Up Roofing
The built-up roof, often called BUR, is a bit of a classic in the world of flat commercial roofs. It’s been around for ages — and for good reason. This type of system uses multiple layers of materials like bitumen, felt, and gravel, all stacked and bonded together. The result is a thick, solid barrier that stands up well to foot traffic and harsh weather.
One of the main draws is how well it insulates. All those layers help keep buildings cooler in summer and warmer in winter, which can mean lower energy costs over time. The gravel topping also adds a layer of protection against the sun and wear.
You’ll usually find BUR on bigger flat-roofed buildings — places that need durability and don’t want to spend every year patching things up. Among the more traditional types of commercial roofs, the built-up roof still holds a solid place where practicality trumps novelty.
At the end of the day, no two buildings are quite the same — and neither are their roofing needs. Whether you’re leaning towards green roofing for sustainability, eyeing metal for its durability, or keeping it simple with a flat or built-up roof, there’s a solution that fits. Even pitched roofing options can play a role when design and drainage matter just as much as function.
Choosing the right commercial roofing type isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. It’s about weighing what works best for your building, your budget, and your long-term plans. If you’re ready to look a little deeper, AAC Flat Roofing is here to help with honest advice and no-obligation guidance — just contact us to get started.
