For commercial building owners in Los Angeles, the roof is one of your most significant assets. It protects your inventory, tenants, and operations from the intense Southern California sun and sudden winter downpours. But when it comes time to replace or install a new commercial roofing system, the choices can be overwhelming.
Table of Contents
- What is TPO Roofing?
- What is Built-Up Roofing (BUR)?
- Comparison: Durability & Foot Traffic
- Comparison: Energy Efficiency (Title 24)
- Comparison: Cost & Installation
- The Verdict: Which is Right for Your LA Building?
Two of the most popular contenders in the LA market are TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) and BUR (Built-Up Roofing). One is a modern, single-ply reflector; the other is a time-tested, multi-layer fortress.
As a leading supplier of commercial roofing materials in Los Angeles for over 40 years, we’ve seen how both systems perform in our specific microclimates. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and best use cases for each to help you make the right investment for your property.
Key Takeaways
- TPO is a single-ply white membrane that reflects UV rays, making it highly energy-efficient and Title 24 compliant.
- Built-Up Roofing (BUR) uses multiple layers of bitumen and fabric to create a thick, redundant waterproof barrier ideal for heavy foot traffic.
- TPO is generally more cost-effective upfront and easier to install, while BUR offers superior puncture resistance and longevity.
- For Los Angeles buildings, TPO is often the best choice for energy savings, while BUR is preferred for rooftops with heavy machinery or frequent maintenance access.
- Both systems require professional installation from experienced commercial contractors to ensure warranty coverage and long-term performance.
1. What is TPO Roofing?
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply reflective roofing membrane. It comes in large white rolls that are mechanically attached or adhered to the roof deck, with seams that are heat-welded together to create a monolithic, watertight sheet.
- The LA Advantage: Its bright white surface reflects nearly 80% of solar heat, significantly lowering air conditioning costs for large warehouses and offices.
- Best For: Warehouses, big-box retail stores, and buildings where energy efficiency is the top priority.
2. What is Built-Up Roofing (BUR)?
Built-Up Roofing (BUR), often called “tar and gravel,” is the grandfather of commercial roofing. It consists of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt) and reinforcing fabric (ply sheets), topped with a layer of aggregate (gravel) or a mineral cap sheet.
- The LA Advantage: The multi-layer design provides incredible redundancy. If one layer is punctured, the layers below still protect the building.
- Best For: Buildings with heavy rooftop equipment (HVAC units) requiring frequent maintenance crews, or roofs with high foot traffic.
3. Durability & Foot Traffic
- TPO: While durable, TPO is a single layer. It can be punctured by dropped tools, sharp debris, or heavy boots. If your roof has a lot of HVAC units that require monthly service, TPO may need extra “walkway pads” to protect it.
- BUR: This system is a tank. The multiple layers and gravel top coat make it highly resistant to punctures and foot traffic. It is arguably the toughest roof you can buy for an industrial setting.
4. Energy Efficiency (Title 24)
In Los Angeles, Title 24 energy codes are a major factor.
- TPO: It is the champion of “Cool Roofs.” It naturally exceeds Title 24 reflectivity standards without needing extra coatings. It actively keeps your building cooler.
- BUR: Traditional black asphalt absorbs heat. To meet Title 24 with a BUR system, you typically need to add a specialized reflective “cool cap sheet” or a white roof coating, which adds to the cost.
5. Cost & Installation
- TPO: Generally more affordable. The rolls are wide and lightweight, allowing for faster installation and lower labor costs.
- BUR: Typically more expensive. The installation is labor-intensive, requiring multiple layers of hot asphalt or cold adhesive to be applied by hand. It also adds significant weight to the building structure.
6. The Verdict: Which is Right for Your LA Building?
- Choose TPO If: You want to lower cooling bills, meet Title 24 codes easily, and have a roof with limited foot traffic. It is the modern, cost-effective standard for most LA businesses.
- Choose BUR If: You have a roof that sees heavy abuse (daily maintenance crews, machinery), you want a system with 30+ year proven longevity, or you are matching an existing system on a historic industrial building.
We Supply Both Systems
At L.A. Roofing Materials, we stock premium TPO membranes from top manufacturers alongside traditional asphalt, felts, and coatings for Built-Up systems.
Not sure which spec is right for your project? Our expert team can review your building plans and recommend the best material for your budget and performance needs. We can also refer you to licensed commercial roofing contractors who specialize in the system you choose.
Contact us today for a quote or consultation.
FAQs:
- Is TPO cheaper than Built-Up Roofing?
Yes, typically. TPO is faster to install and requires fewer materials per square foot, making it a more budget-friendly option for most commercial buildings compared to the labor-intensive multi-layer BUR system. - How long does a TPO roof last in Los Angeles?
A properly installed TPO roof can last 20 to 30 years in the Los Angeles climate. Its heat-welded seams are extremely strong, but it is important to keep the surface clean to maintain its reflectivity. - Does Built-Up Roofing meet Title 24 energy codes?
Standard ‘tar and gravel’ roofs do not meet Title 24 because they absorb heat. To make a BUR roof compliant in LA, you must use a reflective white cap sheet or apply a certified ‘cool roof’ coating as the top layer. - Which roof is better for a restaurant with grease vents?
For restaurants, TPO (or PVC) is often better because the smooth surface is easier to clean and resists animal fats and grease better than the rough, porous surface of a Built-Up Roof. - Can I install TPO over my existing Built-Up Roof?
In many cases, yes. TPO is lightweight and can often be installed as a ‘recover’ system over an existing BUR roof, provided the underlying insulation is dry. This saves the cost of a full tear-off.