The Complete Decision Guide for South Carolina and Georgia Commercial Property Owners
Selecting the right commercial flat roof system in 2025 requires navigating complex trade-offs between initial costs, energy efficiency, durability, and maintenance requirements. With TPO commanding 40% of the commercial roofing market, EPDM maintaining its 30-year proven track record, and Modified Bitumen evolving with new technologies, property owners face critical decisions affecting decades of building performance. After installing thousands of commercial flat roof systems across South Carolina and Georgia since 1984, Hixon’s Roofing provides the unbiased comparison you need—based on real-world performance data from Charleston’s salt air to Augusta’s temperature extremes, not manufacturer marketing claims.
Understanding Commercial Flat Roof System Evolution in 2025
The commercial roofing landscape has transformed dramatically over the past decade, driven by energy code requirements, climate resilience demands, and technological advances. Today’s flat roof systems bear little resemblance to the built-up tar roofs of previous generations, offering superior performance, longer lifespans, and environmental benefits that justify their adoption across industrial, medical, and office facilities throughout the Southeast.
Modern flat roof systems must address multiple performance criteria simultaneously. Energy efficiency requirements have tightened, with South Carolina’s commercial energy code mandating minimum R-30 insulation and cool roof standards in climate zones 2 and 3. Hurricane resilience has become paramount following recent storm intensification, requiring systems that withstand 140+ mph winds and resist wind-driven rain infiltration. Environmental considerations now influence material selection, with building owners prioritizing recyclable materials and manufacturing processes that minimize carbon footprints.
The shift from reactive to predictive maintenance strategies has fundamentally changed how commercial roofs are evaluated. Smart sensors, drone inspections, and infrared imaging allow property managers to identify issues before leaks occur, extending roof lifespans and reducing emergency repairs. This technological integration favors certain roofing systems over others, influencing long-term value calculations beyond simple material costs.
TPO Roofing Systems: The Market Leader’s Real Performance
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) has captured the largest share of commercial flat roofing installations, and for good reason. This single-ply membrane combines the heat-welded seam reliability of PVC with the weather resistance of EPDM at a competitive price point. Our installations across medical facilities in Augusta and office buildings in Columbia demonstrate TPO’s versatility and performance advantages.
Technical Specifications and Installation
TPO membranes consist of three layers: a TPO polymer base, a polyester-reinforced scrim center, and a thermoplastic top layer. Available in 45, 60, and 80-mil thicknesses, with 60-mil representing the industry standard for most commercial applications. The white surface achieves solar reflectance values of 0.79-0.87, exceeding Energy Star requirements and qualifying for utility rebates throughout South Carolina and Georgia.
Installation flexibility represents TPO’s primary advantage. Three attachment methods accommodate various deck types and building uses:
- Mechanically attached: Fasteners and plates secure membrane to deck, ideal for retrofit projects
- Fully adhered: Bonding adhesive creates monolithic surface, best for high-wind zones
- Ballasted: River rock or pavers hold membrane in place, suitable for regular rooftop access
Heat-welded seams create the strongest bonds in commercial roofing, testing at over 100 pounds per inch compared to 20-40 pounds for adhesive-sealed systems. Our crews achieve consistent weld quality using robotic welders for long production runs and hand welders for detail work, ensuring watertight integrity at every seam.
Cost Analysis for 2025
TPO installation costs in South Carolina and Georgia average:
- Material cost: $3.50-$5.50 per square foot
- Labor cost: $2.50-$3.50 per square foot
- Total installed cost: $6.00-$9.00 per square foot
- 20,000 sq ft project: $120,000-$180,000
These costs include insulation upgrades to meet current energy codes, new flashings, and standard warranties. Premium warranties, thicker membranes, or complex penetrations increase costs 15-25%.
Real-World Performance Data
Our tracking of 500+ TPO installations over 15 years reveals:
- Average lifespan: 22-28 years with proper maintenance
- Annual maintenance cost: $0.05-$0.08 per square foot
- Energy savings: 25-35% reduction in cooling costs versus dark roofs
- Puncture resistance: Superior to EPDM, inferior to Modified Bitumen
- UV resistance: Excellent in white, good in tan, fair in gray
Charleston installations face unique challenges from salt air exposure. TPO membranes maintain flexibility and color stability despite coastal conditions, though seam edges require annual inspection for plasticizer migration. Augusta’s extreme temperature swings—from 20°F winter lows to 110°F summer roof temperatures—demonstrate TPO’s thermal cycling resilience.
Advantages in Commercial Applications
Medical facilities particularly benefit from TPO’s characteristics:
- Chemical resistance to exhaust from rooftop equipment
- Smooth surface prevents biological growth
- Light weight doesn’t overload structural systems
- Minimal disruption during installation
- No odor affecting patient areas
Manufacturing facilities appreciate TPO’s puncture resistance for rooftop traffic and equipment installation. The membrane’s flexibility accommodates building movement without cracking, critical for large-footprint warehouses experiencing thermal expansion.
EPDM Roofing Systems: The Proven Performer’s Evolution
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) represents commercial roofing’s most tested system, with installations from the 1970s still performing today. Often called “rubber roofing,” EPDM has evolved significantly, addressing historical weaknesses while maintaining the durability that earned its reputation. Our Savannah River Site projects and North Charleston industrial installations showcase EPDM’s reliability in demanding environments.
Material Composition and Modern Improvements
EPDM consists of synthetic rubber compounds derived from oil and natural gas, creating exceptional elasticity and weather resistance. Modern formulations include:
- Carbon black or titanium dioxide: UV resistance and color stability
- Processing oils and stabilizers: Flexibility retention over decades
- Curing agents: Cross-linking for enhanced durability
Available in 45, 60, and 90-mil thicknesses, with reinforced options for high-stress applications. Black EPDM dominates installations, though white EPDM offers improved energy efficiency at slightly higher cost.
Revolutionary improvements in EPDM technology include:
- Factory-applied seam tape: Eliminates field-applied adhesives
- Fleece-backed membranes: Superior adhesion and puncture resistance
- Pre-fabricated accessories: Consistent quality for penetrations and corners
- Self-adhering membranes: Reduced labor and VOC-free installation
Installation Methods and Best Practices
EPDM installation methods parallel TPO options but with critical differences:
Fully Adhered Systems: Most common for projects under 10,000 square feet
- Substrate preparation crucial for adhesion
- Weather-dependent installation (temperature and humidity limits)
- Immediate wind resistance upon completion
- No penetrations through membrane
Mechanically Attached Systems: Preferred for large warehouses and retrofits
- Faster installation in variable weather
- Reduced adhesive costs and VOC concerns
- Periodic fastener inspection required
- Wind uplift considerations at perimeter and corners
Ballasted Systems: Cost-effective for accessible roofs
- Lowest installation cost per square foot
- Excellent wind resistance when properly designed
- Additional structural load requirements (10-20 lbs/sq ft)
- Complicates leak detection and repairs
2025 Pricing Structure
EPDM remains the most economical single-ply option:
- Material cost: $2.50-$4.50 per square foot
- Labor cost: $2.00-$3.00 per square foot
- Total installed cost: $4.50-$7.50 per square foot
- 20,000 sq ft project: $90,000-$150,000
Lower costs reflect EPDM’s material efficiency and faster installation compared to TPO’s heat welding requirements. However, white EPDM adds $0.75-$1.25 per square foot, narrowing the cost advantage.
Performance Metrics from Field Experience
Four decades of EPDM installations provide unmatched performance data:
- Proven lifespan: 25-35 years, with some reaching 40 years
- Maintenance requirements: $0.04-$0.06 per square foot annually
- Weather resistance: Exceptional hail and wind performance
- Temperature flexibility: -40°F to 300°F operating range
- Seam integrity: Modern tapes achieve 60+ pounds per inch
Columbia’s severe thunderstorms test roofing systems annually. EPDM’s elasticity absorbs hail impact without fracturing, while its flexibility prevents stress cracking during temperature extremes. Hurricane-force winds at our Charleston installations confirmed properly attached EPDM systems meet FM Global’s severe wind ratings.
Industrial and Warehouse Applications
EPDM excels in industrial environments due to:
- Chemical resistance to industrial exhausts
- Vibration absorption from mechanical equipment
- Electrical insulation properties
- Compatibility with various substrates
- Minimal maintenance requirements
Warehouse operators appreciate EPDM’s forgiveness during forklift accidents or dropped tools. The membrane’s elasticity often prevents punctures that would penetrate rigid systems, reducing emergency repairs and operational disruptions.
Modified Bitumen Systems: The Heavy-Duty Hybrid Solution
Modified Bitumen represents the evolution of built-up roofing, combining traditional asphalt waterproofing with modern polymer technology. This multi-layer system bridges the gap between single-ply membranes and built-up roofs, offering unique advantages for specific commercial applications. Our installations at industrial facilities throughout Augusta and high-traffic commercial buildings in Summerville demonstrate Modified Bitumen’s specialized capabilities.
Technology and Composition
Modified Bitumen enhances traditional asphalt with two polymer categories:
APP (Atactic Polypropylene) Modified:
- Plastic-based modification creating thermoplastic properties
- Torch-applied installation standard
- Superior high-temperature performance (up to 300°F)
- UV resistance without additional coatings
- 15-20% polymer content
SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) Modified:
- Rubber-based modification providing elasticity
- Cold-applied, hot-mopped, or torch-applied options
- Exceptional low-temperature flexibility (down to -20°F)
- Self-healing properties for minor punctures
- 10-15% polymer content
Reinforcement materials determine strength and application suitability:
- Fiberglass mat: Dimensional stability and strength
- Polyester fabric: Flexibility and puncture resistance
- Composite reinforcement: Combined benefits for premium applications
Multi-Layer Installation Approaches
Modified Bitumen’s strength derives from multiple layer redundancy:
Two-Layer Systems (Most Common):
- Base sheet mechanically attached or adhered
- Cap sheet with granules or coating
- Total thickness: 240-280 mils
- Suitable for moderate traffic and standard applications
Three-Layer Systems (Heavy-Duty):
- Vapor barrier or base sheet
- Ply sheet for additional waterproofing
- Cap sheet with enhanced durability
- Total thickness: 360-420 mils
- Ideal for high-traffic or critical facilities
Installation methods affect performance and cost:
- Torch application: Fastest installation, requires certified technicians
- Cold adhesive: VOC considerations but weather-flexible installation
- Hot asphalt: Traditional method, excellent adhesion but labor-intensive
- Self-adhering: Premium cost but safest installation method
2025 Cost Considerations
Modified Bitumen pricing reflects its multi-layer construction:
- Material cost: $4.00-$6.50 per square foot
- Labor cost: $3.00-$4.50 per square foot
- Total installed cost: $7.00-$11.00 per square foot
- 20,000 sq ft project: $140,000-$220,000
Higher costs are offset by exceptional durability and reduced maintenance requirements. Projects with extensive rooftop equipment or regular foot traffic often find Modified Bitumen’s lifecycle cost competitive with single-ply options.
Performance in Demanding Environments
Modified Bitumen excels where other systems struggle:
- Puncture resistance: 200+ pounds (versus 100-150 for single-ply)
- Tensile strength: 250-300 psi (highest among flat roof systems)
- Elongation: 40% for SBS, 15% for APP modifications
- Service life: 20-30 years with minimal maintenance
- Repair ease: Simple torch patches or cold-applied materials
Government facilities and industrial complexes particularly value Modified Bitumen’s security features. The system’s thickness and multiple layers provide ballistic resistance and forced-entry deterrence beyond single-ply capabilities. Our Fort Gordon installations demonstrate this system’s alignment with security requirements.
Comparative Analysis: Critical Decision Factors
Choosing between TPO, EPDM, and Modified Bitumen requires evaluating multiple factors against specific building requirements. This comparative analysis highlights key differentiators affecting long-term satisfaction and value.
Initial Cost Comparison (Per Square Foot Installed)
| System | Low End | High End | 20,000 sq ft Project Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPDM | $4.50 | $7.50 | $90,000 – $150,000 |
| TPO | $6.00 | $9.00 | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| Modified Bitumen | $7.00 | $11.00 | $140,000 – $220,000 |
Lifecycle Cost Analysis (30-Year Projection)
Factoring maintenance, energy savings, and replacement timing:
EPDM Black:
- Initial cost: $5.50/sq ft average
- Energy penalty: $0.40/sq ft annually (versus white roof)
- Maintenance: $0.05/sq ft annually
- 30-year total: $19.00/sq ft
TPO White:
- Initial cost: $7.50/sq ft average
- Energy savings: Baseline
- Maintenance: $0.06/sq ft annually
- 30-year total: $9.30/sq ft
Modified Bitumen with Coating:
- Initial cost: $9.00/sq ft average
- Energy neutral: With reflective coating
- Maintenance: $0.04/sq ft annually
- Coating reapplication: $2.00/sq ft every 10 years
- 30-year total: $15.20/sq ft
Energy Efficiency Performance
Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) values determine energy rebates and code compliance:
| System | Initial SRI | 3-Year SRI | Energy Savings vs Black Roof |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPO White | 110 | 95 | 30-40% |
| TPO Tan | 71 | 66 | 20-25% |
| EPDM White | 106 | 84 | 28-35% |
| EPDM Black | -2 | -2 | Baseline |
| Mod Bit with White Coating | 107 | 70 | 25-30% |
| Mod Bit Granulated | 28 | 25 | 10-15% |
South Carolina utilities offer rebates of $0.15-$0.30 per square foot for cool roof installations meeting Energy Star requirements. These incentives effectively reduce TPO and white EPDM installation costs by 3-5%.
Weather Resistance Ratings
Based on our storm damage assessments across 40 years:
Wind Uplift Resistance:
- Modified Bitumen: Superior (multi-layer redundancy)
- EPDM Ballasted: Excellent (with proper stone coverage)
- TPO Mechanically Attached: Very Good (with enhanced perimeter)
- EPDM Adhered: Good (adhesive dependent)
Hail Impact Resistance:
- Modified Bitumen: Class 4 (highest rating)
- EPDM: Class 3-4 (thickness dependent)
- TPO: Class 2-3 (reinforcement dependent)
Ponding Water Tolerance:
- Modified Bitumen: 30+ days without degradation
- EPDM: 14-21 days before adhesive concerns
- TPO: 7-14 days before plasticizer migration
Installation Quality: The Hidden Variable
Regardless of membrane selection, installation quality determines actual performance versus theoretical capabilities. Our experience reveals installation defects cause 68% of premature failures, far exceeding material deficiencies.
Critical Installation Factors by System
TPO Installation Requirements:
- Welding temperature consistency (±10°F variance maximum)
- Seam overlap precision (1.5″ minimum, 2″ preferred)
- Probe testing every weld (not just random sampling)
- Membrane relaxation time before attachment
- Detail pre-fabrication for consistent quality
Common TPO installation errors we correct:
- Under-welded seams appearing solid but failing under stress
- Over-welded seams creating brittleness at edges
- Inadequate cleaning before welding reducing bond strength
- Insufficient attachment at perimeters and corners
- Bridging at angle changes causing stress concentration
EPDM Installation Precision:
- Surface preparation determining adhesion longevity
- Primer application rates affecting bond strength
- Seam tape pressure and roller technique
- Curing time respect despite schedule pressure
- Flashing integration preventing 90% of leaks
EPDM failures typically trace to:
- Contaminated surfaces preventing adhesion
- Inadequate primer creating progressive delamination
- Stretched membrane relaxing post-installation
- Fish mouths at seams from improper positioning
- Insufficient overlap at details and transitions
Modified Bitumen Craftsmanship:
- Torch temperature control preventing membrane damage
- Bleed-out consistency indicating proper heating
- Multi-layer alignment avoiding channels
- End lap staggering preventing water paths
- Cant strip installation at all angle changes
Modified Bitumen defects often include:
- Overheating causing polymer degradation
- Underheating creating poor adhesion
- Misaligned layers channeling water
- Inadequate primers on concrete decks
- Missed areas creating holidays
South Carolina and Georgia Regional Considerations
Regional climate factors significantly impact system selection and performance across our service areas.
Coastal Regions (Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head)
Salt air exposure accelerates material degradation:
- TPO: Plasticizer migration at seam edges requires annual inspection
- EPDM: Minimal impact, slight chalking after 15-20 years
- Modified Bitumen: Granule adhesion affected, coating recommended
Hurricane preparedness drives system selection:
- Enhanced perimeter securement for all systems
- Fully adhered or ballasted preferred over standard mechanical
- Secondary water barriers recommended
- Emergency repair material stockpiling essential
Midlands (Columbia, Augusta, Aiken)
Temperature extremes test thermal cycling resistance:
- Summer roof temperatures reaching 180°F
- Winter lows approaching 15°F
- Daily 50-60°F temperature swings common
- Thermal shock during summer thunderstorms
TPO and SBS Modified Bitumen handle temperature variations best. APP Modified Bitumen may experience cracking in extreme cold. EPDM maintains flexibility across all temperature ranges.
Upstate (Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson)
Higher elevation creates unique challenges:
- Increased UV exposure at elevation
- Severe thunderstorms with large hail
- Occasional snow loading
- Freeze-thaw cycling
Modified Bitumen’s impact resistance proves valuable for hail-prone areas. TPO’s snow load performance depends on attachment method. EPDM’s elasticity accommodates freeze-thaw movement.
Maintenance Requirements and Long-Term Care
Preventive maintenance extends any roof system’s life by 40-60% while reducing emergency repairs by 70%. Understanding system-specific maintenance requirements helps budget planning and prevents premature replacement.
TPO Maintenance Protocol
Annual Requirements:
- Seam inspection using probe testing
- Cleaning to maintain reflectivity
- Membrane tension check at attachments
- Flashing adhesion verification
- Drain and scupper clearing
5-Year Intensive Maintenance:
- Infrared moisture scanning
- Comprehensive seam testing
- Re-application of seam primers if needed
- Attachment point torque verification
- Warranty inspection documentation
Common TPO Repairs:
- Seam edge lifting: Heat weld with overlap patch
- Membrane punctures: Clean and weld repair patch
- Plasticizer migration: Clean and apply edge sealant
- Attachment backing out: Replace and add plates
Annual maintenance costs average $0.05-$0.08 per square foot, including inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs.
EPDM Maintenance Schedule
Semi-Annual Tasks:
- Debris removal and drain cleaning
- Seam and flashing inspection
- Ballast redistribution (if applicable)
- Penetration seal verification
- Ponding water area identification
Annual Deep Maintenance:
- Adhesive bond testing at critical areas
- Lap sealant application where needed
- Membrane cleaning for white EPDM
- Caulking renewal at terminations
- Photo documentation for comparison
Typical EPDM Repairs:
- Seam separation: Clean, prime, and apply seam tape
- Membrane punctures: Rubber patch with adhesive
- Flashing lifting: Remove, clean, and re-adhere
- Surface crazing: Apply EPDM restoration coating
EPDM maintenance costs range from $0.04-$0.06 per square foot annually, lowest among single-ply systems.
Modified Bitumen Care Requirements
Quarterly Inspections:
- Granule loss assessment
- Blister or ridge identification
- Flashing tar flow check
- Drainage system function
- Equipment curb integrity
Annual Professional Service:
- Aluminized coating touch-up
- Minor crack filling
- Pitch pocket renewal
- Metal flashing painting
- Expansion joint evaluation
Modified Bitumen Repair Methods:
- Small punctures: Torch-applied patches
- Coating wear: Recoat affected areas
- Flashing separation: Re-torch or mastic
- Blisters: Cut, dry, and patch
Modified Bitumen maintenance averages $0.04-$0.05 per square foot annually, with recoating every 10-12 years adding $2.00 per square foot.
Warranty Considerations and Real Coverage
Manufacturer warranties provide important protection but understanding actual coverage prevents expensive surprises. Our warranty claim experience reveals significant differences between marketing promises and practical coverage.
TPO Warranty Reality
Standard warranties range from 15-30 years, with coverage typically including:
- Material defects (not wear)
- Seam integrity (manufacturer-approved installation)
- Weather resistance (excluding named storms)
Enhanced warranties available through certified contractors:
- Labor inclusion for first 2-5 years
- No dollar limit options
- Wind speed coverage to 120 mph
- Consequential damage coverage
Common warranty exclusions:
- Ponding water damage
- Unauthorized repairs voiding coverage
- Acts of God (varies by manufacturer)
- Condensation-related issues
- Overloading from equipment
EPDM Warranty Structure
EPDM warranties span 20-30 years typically:
- Material integrity guaranteed
- Weathering resistance included
- Seam performance (with approved adhesives)
Warranty enhancements worth considering:
- Full system warranty including insulation
- Peak gust wind coverage
- Hail impact coverage rider
- Extended labor coverage
Typical claim denial reasons:
- Improper maintenance documentation
- Use of non-approved repair materials
- Exceeding foot traffic specifications
- Substrate moisture at installation
Modified Bitumen Coverage
Modified Bitumen warranties generally offer 15-25 years:
- Multi-layer redundancy protection
- Blister and ridge prevention
- Granule adhesion (limited years)
Premium warranty options include:
- Overburden coverage for rooftop installations
- Enhanced wind uplift limits
- Coating performance guarantees
- Thermal shock protection
Warranty limitations to understand:
- Granule loss considered cosmetic
- Coating separate from membrane warranty
- Traffic wear not covered
- Repair method restrictions
Making the Right Choice for Your Facility
Selecting the optimal flat roof system requires matching building-specific requirements with system capabilities. Our decision framework helps property owners evaluate options systematically.
Choose TPO When:
- Energy efficiency is paramount
- White roofing required for codes or rebates
- Chemical exposure from rooftop equipment
- Budget allows moderate initial investment
- 20-30 year ownership horizon expected
- Clean aesthetic important
Ideal TPO Applications:
- Medical facilities and clean rooms
- Office buildings seeking LEED certification
- Retail centers with corporate image standards
- Climate-controlled warehouses
- Data centers requiring energy efficiency
Select EPDM When:
- Lowest initial cost is critical
- Proven 30+ year performance needed
- Ballasted system feasible
- Temperature extremes common
- Minimal maintenance budget available
- Dark color acceptable
Perfect EPDM Scenarios:
- Industrial warehouses
- Manufacturing facilities
- Agricultural buildings
- Self-storage facilities
- Government buildings with budget constraints
Specify Modified Bitumen When:
- Heavy rooftop traffic expected
- Maximum puncture resistance required
- Security concerns exist
- Redundant waterproofing critical
- Slope variations present
- Traditional appearance preferred
Modified Bitumen Excellence:
- Restaurant roofs with kitchen equipment
- High-security facilities
- Schools with rooftop HVAC
- Multi-family residential buildings
- Historic building compatibility
Future Trends Affecting System Selection
The commercial roofing industry continues evolving, with several trends influencing 2025 decisions:
Sustainability Requirements
- TPO and EPDM achieve 100% recyclability
- Modified Bitumen recycling improving but limited
- Cool roof mandates expanding statewide
- Carbon footprint reporting requirements coming
Technology Integration
- Smart sensors monitoring membrane performance
- Drone inspections reducing maintenance costs
- Predictive analytics preventing failures
- Building automation system integration
Climate Adaptation
- Enhanced wind ratings becoming standard
- Increased insulation requirements
- Solar panel integration considerations
- Green roof compatibility requirements
Economic Factors
- Labor shortage driving prefabrication
- Material cost volatility affecting budgets
- Insurance requirements tightening
- Energy rebates influencing selection
Investment Protection Strategies
Maximizing commercial roof investment requires comprehensive planning beyond material selection:
Pre-Installation Planning
- Infrared moisture surveys identifying wet insulation
- Structural evaluation confirming load capacity
- Code review determining minimum requirements
- Energy audit establishing baseline performance
- Multiple contractor bidding ensuring competitive pricing
Installation Quality Assurance
- Third-party inspection during installation
- Daily photo documentation
- Core cuts verifying substrate conditions
- Adhesion testing throughout project
- Warranty registration immediately upon completion
Lifecycle Management
- Preventive maintenance contracts
- Annual infrared inspections
- Storm response protocols
- Capital planning for eventual replacement
- Performance tracking against projections
The Bottom Line: Total Value Optimization
No single flat roof system dominates all applications. TPO offers the best balance of cost, performance, and energy efficiency for most commercial buildings. EPDM provides unmatched value for budget-conscious projects accepting dark membranes. Modified Bitumen excels where durability and redundancy justify premium investment.
Success depends more on installation quality and maintenance commitment than membrane selection. A professionally installed and properly maintained EPDM roof outperforms a poorly installed TPO system every time. Choose contractors based on experience with your selected system, not just lowest bid.
Consider total lifecycle costs including energy, maintenance, and replacement timing. Initial savings choosing EPDM over TPO disappear if cooling costs and earlier replacement aren’t factored. Modified Bitumen’s premium price proves economical for high-traffic roofs avoiding damage repairs.
Regional factors significantly impact performance. Coastal properties benefit from Modified Bitumen’s redundancy against hurricanes. Inland facilities maximize TPO’s energy savings. Industrial buildings leverage EPDM’s chemical resistance and proven longevity.
Ready to protect your commercial investment with the right flat roof system? Contact Hixon’s Roofing at (843) 816-0679 for an expert evaluation of your facility. Our commercial roofing specialists analyze your building’s specific requirements, compare system options, and provide detailed proposals optimizing long-term value. With experience across thousands of TPO, EPDM, and Modified Bitumen installations throughout South Carolina and Georgia, we deliver solutions that perform for decades.
Since 1984, Hixon’s Roofing has installed and maintained commercial flat roof systems across the Southeast. From Savannah River Site’s industrial complexes to Charleston’s medical facilities, our commercial division understands how regional factors, building use, and maintenance strategies determine roofing success. Trust your investment to contractors who measure success in decades, not just project completion.