Selecting the best roof for a commercial building isn’t just about curb appeal or slapping on some shingles and calling it a day. In a place like New Jersey, where summers can be humid and winters brutally cold, choosing the right commercial roofing system means balancing durability, cost, energy efficiency, and weather resilience. Whether you’re managing a warehouse in Newark, a storefront in Jersey City, or an office complex in Edison, your roofing decision can directly impact building performance and long-term maintenance costs.
With CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, let’s break down the best options for commercial roofing in New Jersey and which systems are most suited to meet your property’s needs.
Understanding Commercial Roofing in the New Jersey Climate
Before diving into specific materials, it’s crucial to understand the regional challenges that impact roofing in the Garden State. New Jersey’s climate is classified as humid subtropical in the south and humid continental in the north. That means:
- Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures in winter
- Thunderstorms and humidity in summer
- Occasional hurricanes or nor’easters
These fluctuations demand weather-resistant, thermally stable, and low-maintenance roofing systems—especially for flat-roof commercial buildings common across Middlesex, Bergen, and Essex counties.
Top Commercial Roofing Options for New Jersey Buildings
1. TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)
Why it’s great:
TPO is currently one of the most popular commercial flat roofing systems in the U.S., and for good reason. It offers excellent UV resistance, which is perfect for New Jersey summers, and has strong puncture resistance for snow and hail events.
Benefits:
- White reflective surface = energy-efficient roofing
- Resistant to mold, algae, and chemical exposure
- Heat-welded seams make it highly waterproof
- Affordable lifecycle cost
Best for: Medical facilities, retail centers, and offices in Union County, Morris County, and urban areas with heat island effects.
2. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
Why it’s great:
This rubber roofing membrane is known for its long lifespan (30+ years) and exceptional performance in cold weather—ideal for North Jersey winters.
Benefits:
- Proven durability in extreme cold
- Fast and easy installation
- Lower upfront cost than TPO or PVC
- Excellent resistance to UV and ozone
Drawbacks:
- Absorbs heat due to its black surface (can be mitigated with coatings)
- Seams are adhered, not welded
Best for: Warehouses, logistics centers, and manufacturing plants across New Brunswick, Paterson, and Trenton.
3. Metal Roofing Systems
Why it’s great:
Standing seam metal roofs offer unmatched longevity (up to 50 years), superior resistance to high winds, and excellent drainage for sloped roofs.
Benefits:
- Fire-resistant and low maintenance
- Reflective coatings improve energy savings
- Performs well in snow, ice, and wind
- Sustainable and recyclable
Drawbacks:
- Higher installation costs
- May require soundproofing
Best for: Sloped commercial buildings, educational institutions, and green commercial architecture projects in Princeton, Cherry Hill, or Hackensack.
4. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Why it’s great:
BUR systems (aka “tar and gravel roofs”) have been a classic flat roofing solution for over a century. Their multi-layer system provides redundancy and excellent waterproofing.
Benefits:
- Excellent protection against water infiltration
- Cost-effective for large surface areas
- UV-resistant
- Fire retardant options available
Drawbacks:
- Heavy system = needs strong structural support
- Lengthy installation time
Best for: Older brick commercial buildings and industrial zones in Elizabeth, Camden, or Bayonne.
5. PVC Roofing (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Why it’s great:
PVC roofing combines the reflectivity of TPO with chemical resistance, making it ideal for buildings that emit or work with oils, grease, or harsh substances.
Benefits:
- Highly resistant to chemicals and grease
- Welded seams = watertight performance
- White reflective surface = cool roofing solution
- Fire-resistant
Drawbacks:
- Slightly more expensive than TPO or EPDM
Best for: Restaurants, laboratories, or healthcare facilities in urban centers like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Atlantic City.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roof in New Jersey
1. Weather Exposure
If your building is located near the shoreline (Monmouth County or Atlantic County), salt air corrosion and high winds are concerns. Inland properties face more snowfall and ice dam issues.
2. Building Design
Flat vs. low-slope vs. pitched roofs each require different materials. Flat roofs benefit from membrane systems like TPO or EPDM, while sloped designs are ideal for metal.
3. Energy Efficiency Goals
New Jersey building codes increasingly emphasize green building compliance. Opting for reflective materials (like TPO or PVC) can lower HVAC costs and qualify for local energy incentives.
4. Budget vs. Lifecycle Cost
Though metal or PVC roofs may have higher upfront costs, they often reduce maintenance and repair costs over time. Evaluate total cost of ownership, not just installation price.
5. Regulatory Codes and Fire Ratings
Municipalities like Newark and Trenton have specific building codes and permitting requirements. Work with a certified New Jersey commercial roofing contractor like CJ Commercial Roofing NJ familiar with local laws.
Hiring a Commercial Roofing Contractor in New Jersey
Choosing the best roofing system also means choosing the right professionals. Look for licensed and insured contractors with experience in commercial roof installation, roof coatings, and emergency roof repairs. Some top-rated commercial roofers in NJ specialize in:
- TPO and EPDM installation
- Leak detection and flat roof waterproofing
- Thermal imaging for roof inspections
- Green roofing systems and solar integration
Always request:
- Detailed quotes
- Warranty terms
- Project timelines
- References from nearby commercial projects
Conclusion: What Is the Best Roof for a Commercial Building?
The best roof for a commercial building in New Jersey depends on your specific needs—but here’s the quick cheat sheet:
- Budget-conscious? → EPDM
- Energy efficiency + reflectivity? → TPO or PVC
- Longevity + low maintenance? → Metal
- Chemical resistance? → PVC
- Classic durability? → BUR
The ideal solution is often a balance between weather performance, structural compatibility, long-term ROI, and local code compliance.
Whether you’re upgrading a retail space in Asbury Park, building a warehouse in South Brunswick, or managing a multi-unit office in Paramus, understanding your roofing options ensures you’re making a future-proof investment.
Pro Tip: Partner with a local New Jersey commercial roofing expert to ensure your system meets regional demands and qualifies for state-level energy incentives or tax deductions.