Commercial Roofing ROI: Which Systems Save You the Most Over 20 Years?

Commercial Roofing ROI: Which Systems Save You the Most Over 20 Years?

By Central Roofing | Serving Los Angeles & Orange County

When you’re managing a commercial building, it’s not just about what the roof costs today — it’s about what it’ll cost you over the next 20 years. Choosing the right commercial roofing system can mean the difference between predictable maintenance… or thousands in unexpected repairs.

At Central Roofing, we’ve helped hundreds of property owners, facility managers, and investors in Los Angeles and Orange County make smart, ROI-driven decisions. Here’s a side-by-side look at the life-cycle costs of the most common commercial roof types.


📊 20-Year Cost Comparison Chart

Roofing System Initial Cost ($/sq ft) Lifespan (yrs) Maintenance Cost (20 yrs) Recoat Cost (if any) Total 20-Year Cost
TPO $5.50 20 $1.50 $0.00 $7.00
PVC $6.50 25 $1.00 $0.00 $7.50
BUR $8.00 25 $3.00 $0.00 $11.00
Silicone Coating $4.50 15 $1.00 $2.00 $7.50

➡️ See how silicone roof coatings stack up for aging flat roofs.


Key Insights for Building Owners

✅ TPO Roofing: Best for Budget-Conscious Managers

TPO offers a balance of affordability and performance. Its 20-year lifespan combined with low maintenance makes it a solid investment.
➡️ Compare TPO vs. PVC Roofing in more detail.


✅ PVC Roofing: Higher Cost, Longer Life

PVC is slightly more expensive up front but can last longer — and it’s better in high-chemical environments like restaurants or labs.


⚠️ BUR (Built-Up Roofing): High Durability, Higher Costs

BUR has been used for decades but requires more maintenance and costs more to install. Still a good choice for buildings that need heavy-duty protection.

Commercial Roofing System Chart


✅ Silicone Coating: Great for Restoring Older Roofs

When installed correctly, silicone coatings can add 10–15 years of life to an aging roof. Just be sure to plan for a recoat down the line.
➡️ See our roof repair & coating services.


Final Thoughts: Which Roof Has the Best ROI?

If you’re planning for long-term performance and cost-efficiency, TPO and PVC stand out — but roof coatings can be a fantastic solution if your current system qualifies.

At Central Roofing, we always help clients choose the right roofing system based on their budget, building type, and long-term goals.


📞 Ready to Talk ROI? Let’s Get You a Quote

We’ve been serving Southern California commercial properties for over 30 years. Call us today at (310) 527-6770 or get a quote online.