Why Quality Materials and Proper Installation Matter for Your Commercial Roof

In commercial roofing, there are two fundamental pillars that determine whether a roof will stand the test of time: the quality of the materials used and the quality of the installation. A roof is more than just a superficial cover – it’s a complex system of membranes or panels, insulation, fasteners, sealants, and flashings all working together to protect your building.

Cutting corners with cheap materials or shoddy workmanship might save a little money upfront, but it almost always leads to problems down the line – leaks, blow-offs, premature deterioration, and costly failures. In contrast, investing in premium roofing products and ensuring they are installed by experienced professionals will pay dividends in longevity, performance, and peace of mind.

We will discuss why using high-quality roofing materials (from trusted manufacturers like GAF, Firestone, Atlas, etc.) and insisting on proper installation practices is so critical for a commercial roof. Whether you’re planning a new roof or a replacement, or managing an existing one, understanding these principles will help you make informed decisions that safeguard your building for the long haul.

Quality Roofing Materials: The Foundation of a Durable Roof:

Not all roofs are created equal – the difference often comes down to the materials. High-quality roofing materials are engineered and tested to meet strict standards, offer enhanced features, and come backed by robust warranties. Here’s why opting for top-tier materials from reputable manufacturers matters:

• Proven Performance and Testing: Established manufacturers like GAF, Firestone, and Atlas spend decades refining their products. They subject their roofing materials to extensive testing for wind uplift, fire resistance, hail impact, UV exposure, and more. When you choose a high-quality product (say, a GAF TPO membrane or an Atlas asphalt shingle), you know it’s been proven in both lab and field conditions. For example, Atlas’s Pinnacle shingles are rated to resist hail impact and winds up to 130 mph – those specs are validated through industry standard tests. Firestone’s premium single-ply membranes (like UltraPly TPO or RubberGard EPDM) are similarly tested to perform under extreme conditions and often achieve Class A fire ratings and high wind ratings.

• Enhanced Features: Top-tier materials often come with built-in features that improve longevity and performance. For instance, many quality single-ply roofs include UV stabilizers and antioxidants in the formulation to delay aging. Premium TPO membranes are designed to reflect the majority of UV rays (one source notes that white TPO can reflect over 85% of sunlight, reducing heat strain on the material). High-end shingles from GAF or Atlas have copper-containing granules that prevent algae growth (avoiding those black streaks) and polymer modifications that increase flexibility and impact. Metal roofing panels from top suppliers often have advanced PVDF paint coatings (like Kynar 500) that resist chalking, fading and corrosion for decades. These added features mean that quality materials age more gracefully – they don’t dry out, crack, rust, or weaken as quickly as lower-grade alternatives.

• Longer Warranties: A warranty is a good indicator of a manufacturer’s confidence in their product. High-quality roofing materials typically come with long warranty coverage. For example, GAF offers 20-30 year or even longer guarantees on their commercial membranes when installed as a full system. Firestone’s Red Shield warranty program provides 5 to 30-year coverage, including options for no-dollar-limit (NDL) warranties that cover full repair/replacement cost if the roof fails within that period. They even have platinum warranties (for specific systems like a 30-year TPO or EPDM) that cover things like incidental punctures, high winds, and hail up to 2” in – essentially the manufacturer vouches that their top product can handle severe conditions without failing. These extensive warranties are only available on the quality lines of products, not the bargain-bin stuff. By choosing materials that come with such warranties, you are effectively buying an insurance policy on the roof’s longevity (assuming it’s installed correctly, which we’ll discuss later). In contrast, if you use off-brand materials, you might get a very limited warranty (or none at all beyond basic material defects for a short time). That leaves you exposed if the product fails prematurely.

• Compatibility and Complete Systems: Top manufacturers typically offer full roofing systems – not just the membrane or shingle, but the compatible insulation, adhesives, fasteners, edge metal, cover boards, etc. When you build a roof using a single manufacturer’s high-quality system, you ensure all components work together optimally and are covered under one warranty. For instance, Firestone (Elevate) provides everything from the membrane to the ISO insulation to the bonding adhesive, and if you use all their pieces, their warranty will cover the entire assembly with “edge-to-edge” protection. Quality material providers also have strict standards for those accessory components. The result is a cohesive roof system with no weak links. If you mix cheap components in – say, using an unknown brand of insulation under a good membrane – you might introduce a failure point (perhaps that insulation compresses too much or isn’t as water-resistant, etc.). So going with quality often means using a manufacturer’s whole system, which yields a better-built roof.

• Innovations and Energy Benefits: Leading roofing manufacturers drive innovation. By choosing their products, you gain access to the latest tech. A great example is cool roof technology – companies like GAF and Firestone have reflective membranes and coatings that meet cool roof requirements and can contribute to LEED points. Some membranes now come with high reflectance plus high emittance, which means not only do they reflect sunlight, they also radiate away any absorbed heat efficiently. Using such materials can significantly improve your building’s energy efficiency (reducing AC costs) and even qualify for rebates in certain energy programs. High-quality materials may also contribute to sustainability – for example, many premium metal roofs are made from recycled metals and are themselves recyclable, and some membranes are designed to be recycled at end of life. If environmental impact and building performance are priorities, quality materials align well with those goals.

  
  

In short, quality materials last longer and perform better. Many building owners and contractors prefer single-ply membranes from top brands because they deliver consistent results and fewer problems. And while high-end materials might cost a bit more initially, they often save money over time by avoiding failures and reducing maintenance needs. For example, a cheap asphalt roof might start cracking after 10 years, while a quality modified-bitumen or multi-ply system could go 20+ with no issues.

When you’re selecting a roof for your commercial building, it pays to choose materials from manufacturers with a solid reputation. Names like GAF (the largest roofing manufacturer in North America), Firestone, Atlas, etc., have built trust in the industry. They offer not just products, but also technical support, detailed installation guidelines, and oversight programs (some send inspectors for warranty sign-off) to ensure their systems perform. With quality materials on your roof, you gain that assurance of reliability, which is something you simply don’t get when cutting corners with unknown or subpar products.

The Importance of Professional Installation (Doing It Right the First Time)

Even the best roofing material in the world can fail if it’s installed improperly. Think of it this way: a Formula 1 race car is a high-performance machine (like a top-quality roof system), but if an untrained driver is behind the wheel, the car can crash or underperform despite its capabilities. Similarly, a top-notch roof installed by an inexperienced or careless crew can become a nightmare. Here’s why proper installation by a qualified roofing contractor is absolutely crucial:

• Roof Installation is Precision Work: Laying down a commercial roof involves dozens of critical details – from how overlapping seams are sealed, to how fasteners are placed and spaced, to the exact way flashing is terminated on edges and penetrations. Manufacturer specifications for installation exist for a reason: following them ensures the roof is waterproof and durable. If an installer takes shortcuts (for example, not using enough fasteners per board of insulation, or not cleaning a seam area before welding it), the integrity of the roof is compromised. Small errors can have big consequences – a single improperly welded seam on a TPO roof could lead to a long-term leak along that seam; a misaligned metal panel could leave gaps that wind-driven rain exploits. Proper installation requires trained roofers who know the specific system’s requirements and have the skill to execute them. That’s why many manufacturers have authorized contractor programs – they certify certain contractors who have been trained to install their systems correctly. Hiring a certified or seasoned roofer increases the likelihood that your roof will be put on right.

• Maximizing Material Lifespan: A well-installed roof will achieve or exceed the material’s intended lifespan, whereas a poor install can cut that lifespan dramatically short. For instance, a quality shingle might be rated for 30 years, but if it’s nailed incorrectly (wrong placement or too few nails) or the underlayment is done sloppily, you might see leaks and failures in 10 years or less. Conversely, a proper installation means the shingles are nailed in the “sweet spot,” flashed correctly at all valleys and penetrations, etc., so they can realistically last those 30 years. With flat roofs, the concept is similar: a fully adhered EPDM that’s glued down meticulously will last decades without issues, but if the glue is under-applied or the membrane isn’t rolled out smoothly, you could get bridging, wrinkles, and premature cracks. Studies have shown that the majority of commercial roof failures are due not to product defects but to installation errors or poor workmanship. The day your roof is installed is arguably the most important day in its life. Everything that happens after (all the maintenance and material quality) can’t fully compensate for a botched install. So, to get the most out of that high-quality material you paid for, it must be installed to spec by competent professionals.

• Warranty Protection: Remember those great manufacturer warranties we discussed? They usually come with a big caveat – the warranty is only valid if the roof was installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and often by a certified installer. Manufacturers will void the warranty if they inspect a leak and determine the cause was improper installation. Something as small as using the wrong fastener type, or not installing enough screws in a metal roof panel, or improper seam spacing on a TPO, can be grounds for a warranty claim denial because the spec wasn’t met. For example, if a membrane roof leaks and the investigation finds that the contractor didn’t clean the seam areas and the welds failed – that’s not a material defect, it’s an install defect, and no manufacturer will cover that. This is a major reason to insist on a reputable installer: you want your warranty to remain intact. Many top manufacturers require that an authorized or certified contractor perform the install in order to issue their highest level warranties. By using a certified contractor, you essentially get an extra set of eyes and you ensure your warranty is valid. If you choose a random handyman or inexperienced crew, not only might they do it wrong, but even if the materials fail, you could be left with no coverage due to install mistakes.

• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Professional roofing contractors with a track record know the common pitfalls to avoid – and there are many in roofing. For example, they know not to trap moisture in the roof (if the insulation got wet, it should be dried or replaced before new membrane goes on, otherwise you get blisters later). They know how to stagger joints in multi-ply systems for strength, how to accommodate thermal expansion on metal roofs (e.g., using sliding clips), how to install proper crickets behind rooftop units to prevent ponding, and countless other subtle things. They’ll also follow safety and building codes (ensuring things like adequate drainage per code, fire ratings, etc.). In contrast, an inexperienced installer might unknowingly create vulnerabilities – like leaving seams too short at the edges (which shrink back and open up later) or failing to adhere a membrane in corners (leading to wind uplift issues). These details matter immensely. For instance, industry data shows a large portion of roof problems originate at details like flashing and edge conditions – professional installers pay special attention to those, using techniques that amateurs might skip. A quality-focused installer will also conduct their own quality checks – doing flood tests on a finished flat roof to ensure no leaks, or probing every weld on a TPO roof with a tool to make sure it’s fused properly, etc. This kind of diligence is what you get when you hire pros, and it directly translates to a longer-lasting, trouble-free roof.

• Workmanship Warranties and Accountability: Reputable roofing companies often provide a workmanship warranty on top of the manufacturer’s material warranty. For example, a contractor might warrant their installation work for 2, 5, or even 10 years. This means if a leak occurs due to an install error in that timeframe, they’ll fix it at no cost to you. This is a huge benefit – it basically ensures the installer has skin in the game to do it right. If a contractor doesn’t offer any workmanship warranty, that’s a red flag. By choosing a pro who stands behind their work, you gain an extra layer of protection. Also, a well-established company will be there years down the road if you need assistance; a fly-by-night roofer who cut you a deal might be unreachable when something goes wrong. Accountability is key. Professional installers document the job, often with photos, and deliver a finished roof they are proud to put their name on. At Back40 Roofing Systems, for instance, we provide both manufacturer warranties and our own workmanship guarantee – we stake our reputation on every roof we install.

• Insurance and Compliance: Professional installation also ensures things like liability insurance, workers’ comp, and OSHA safety compliance are in place. This might not directly affect the roof’s lifespan, but it protects you as the building owner from potential legal or financial issues during the project. It also indicates the contractor runs a responsible operation. Crews that follow safety protocols and plan their work carefully tend to follow manufacturer protocols carefully too – it’s a mindset of doing things correctly versus haphazardly.

To sum it up, proper installation is the linchpin that holds everything together. It doesn’t matter if you have the thickest, most expensive PVC membrane or the highest-rated shingles – if they’re installed incorrectly, you will have problems. On the other hand, a modestly priced roof system installed perfectly will outperform a premium system installed poorly. Ideally, you want the best of both: great materials and great installation. When you invest in a new commercial roof, allocate time to vet your roofing contractor: check their experience, certifications, and past work. It’s not just about the lowest bid – in roofing, you truly “get what you pay for” with workmanship. Hiring seasoned professionals might cost a bit more upfront, but it is an investment in the future durability of your roof. A correctly installed roof will maximize the lifespan of the materials (getting you all those years of service you paid for), preserve your warranty, and dramatically reduce the likelihood of leaks or failures – which ultimately saves money and stress over the roof’s life.

Long-Term Payoff: Fewer Problems, Longer Service, Better Value:

Let’s zoom out and talk about the big picture payoff of using quality materials and proper installation for your commercial roof. When you insist on “doing it right,” you reap a host of long-term benefits:

• Maximized Lifespan: Your roof stands a very good chance of reaching its full expected life or beyond. That could mean getting 25-30 years out of a roof instead of 15-20, or getting 50+ years from a metal roof instead of 20-30. This dramatically affects your capital expenditure cycles. You’re essentially doubling the time between expensive re-roof projects in some cases. Over a few decades, that’s a huge financial advantage.

• Fewer Repairs and Emergencies: High-grade materials are less prone to issues, and correct installation means less chance of defects that cause leaks. That translates to far fewer roof leaks or problems over the roof’s life. And if an issue does arise (say, an extreme weather event causes some damage), a well-installed, quality roof usually localizes the issue and is easier to repair, whereas a poorly done roof might suffer catastrophic failure under stress. By having a robust roof system, you avoid the hassle and cost of frequent repairs and you significantly reduce the risk of a major leak disrupting your operations. It’s hard to quantify peace of mind, but knowing that your roof isn’t a ticking time bomb every time a storm rolls through is valuable. Properly installed roofs invert that equation – you may never experience a leak for many years of service.

• Total Cost of Ownership Savings: While the upfront cost for quality might be higher, the total cost of ownership over the roof’s life is almost always lower. Fewer repairs, fewer premature replacements, lower energy bills (if reflective, well-insulated materials were used), and maintained warranty coverage all contribute to savings. For instance, spending 15% more now on a better roof that lasts 10 years longer is a smart trade-off. Also, consider insurance: some insurers offer better rates or deductibles for buildings with superior roofing. Moreover, the avoidance of business interruption from roof failures is hard dollars saved if a leak would otherwise force downtime or damage equipment. So from a financial perspective, quality installation/materials often pay for themselves over time. Industry consultants often perform life-cycle cost analysis showing that a premium roof system can have a lower annualized cost than a bargain system when you factor in longevity and maintenance.

• Safety and Liability: A solid roof also protects you from liabilities. A roof collapse or major leak can cause accidents, mold, or other hazards. Using proper materials (for example, a Class A fire-rated roof covering) and proper installation (ensuring the roof can handle expected loads, etc.) keeps your building safer. You don’t want the roof to be the weak link in a fire or a heavy snow event. Quality roofs are more resilient and thereby protect not just assets but lives. This indirectly protects you from potential legal issues that could arise if a known substandard roof led to an incident.

• Asset Value and Aesthetics: A well-built roof maintains its integrity and often its appearance better over time. High-quality materials tend to look better for longer (colors don’t fade as quickly, no unsightly warping or misalignment, etc.). If you ever sell the building, a prospective buyer (and their inspector) will appreciate a roof that’s in great shape and has a transferrable long-term warranty. It can increase the property value or at least make it easier to sell/lease because it’s one less thing the new owner/tenant has to worry about. On the flip side, if someone sees a patched, ponding, deteriorating roof, it can kill deals or lower offers significantly. Thus, investing in a good roof is also investing in your real estate asset’s value.

• Peace of Mind: We’ve hinted at this, but it’s worth stating plainly: Knowing that you have a reliable roof installed by experts, with high-grade materials, and backed by solid warranties allows you to sleep easier when the rain is pouring at night. Facility managers and owners have plenty of other things to concern themselves with – ideally the roof isn’t an urgent one because it was done right. Peace of mind is hard to put a price on, but when you’ve experienced the alternative (constant roof leaks or a major failure), you realize just how valuable a trouble-free roof is. It lets you focus on running your business, not scrambling for buckets or emergency roofers.

Ensuring quality in both product and installation is about setting your commercial roof up for success from day one. It’s a classic case of “you get out what you put in.” If you put in cheap materials or sloppy labor, you’ll likely get a roof that fails early and costs you more in the end. If you put in quality, expertise, and care, you’ll get a roof that exceeds expectations, often lasting longer than you even anticipated. This isn’t just rhetoric – it’s supported by roofing industry data and real-world outcomes.

At Back40 Roofing Systems, we have built our business around this philosophy. We use trusted, top-grade materials and employ highly trained crews who take pride in craftsmanship. Our projects consistently pass manufacturer inspections and stand up to the harshest conditions. We’ve seen firsthand that a commitment to quality pays off immensely for our clients – many of whom come back to us for additional projects precisely because the roofs we installed 10+ years ago are still going strong with no issues. We’d rather explain upfront why a proper roofing job costs a bit more than ever have to explain later why a roof failed.

Making the right choices at the start of a roofing project – quality materials, certified installers, proper techniques – is the ultimate form of preventative maintenance. It sets the stage for a roof that needs minimal “care” beyond routine maintenance, as opposed to a problematic roof that demands constant attention. So if you’re considering a new commercial roof or a replacement, remember that it’s an investment in the future of your building. Don’t compromise on quality. It might require a bit more budget or diligence in selecting your contractor, but the reward is a roof that will protect your business reliably for decades. And that is worth every penny.