Austin Commercial Flat Roofing
Built for Hail, Heat, and the Texas Sun
Austin sits squarely in Hail Alley—and commercial flat roofs take the full impact. Between severe hailstorms that can destroy a standard membrane in minutes, UV exposure that degrades roofing materials at twice the rate of northern climates, and daily temperature swings that stress every seam, your flat roof assembly needs to be designed for Central Texas realities. We build commercial roofs that acknowledge these conditions rather than pretend they don't exist.
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How much does commercial flat roofing cost in Austin, TX?
Austin commercial flat roofing typically costs $6-16 per square foot installed, depending on system type and hail resistance requirements. Standard TPO membrane systems run $6-10/sq ft, hail-resistant assemblies with heavy cover boards $8-12/sq ft, PVC systems $8-12/sq ft, and standing seam metal $12-18/sq ft. A 20,000 square foot flat roof replacement with hail-resistant TPO assembly typically runs $160,000-$240,000. These prices reflect assemblies designed for Central Texas conditions—including FM-rated impact resistance where appropriate, proper UV-stable membranes, and adequate drainage for our intense rainfall events.
- Standard TPO membrane: $6-10 per square foot installed
- Hail-resistant TPO assembly: $8-12 per square foot installed
- PVC membrane: $8-12 per square foot installed
- Standing seam metal: $12-18 per square foot installed
- Modified bitumen: $7-11 per square foot installed
- FM 4473 SH (Severe Hail) rated assemblies available
Why Austin Flat Roofs Fail—and How to Prevent It
The Building Science Behind Flat Roof Performance in Central Texas
Austin is Climate Zone 2A (hot-dry), which creates specific challenges for flat roof assemblies. Unlike humid climates where moisture control dominates design decisions, Austin's primary threats are hail impact, extreme UV exposure, and thermal cycling. Understanding these factors is essential for specifying a roof that will actually perform here.
Hail Impact—Austin's #1 Flat Roof Killer
Impact: Central Texas averages 3-5 significant hail events per year, with stones regularly exceeding 1 inch in diameter. The April 2021 and April 2024 storms produced 2"+ hail that destroyed thousands of commercial roofs across the metro. Standard single-ply membranes (45-mil or 60-mil TPO/EPDM without cover boards) can be punctured by 1" hail. Even when not punctured, hail creates micro-fractures in membrane surfaces that accelerate UV degradation—damage that doesn't leak immediately but shortens roof life significantly.
Our Solution: Hail-resistant assemblies are the standard for Austin commercial roofs, not an upgrade. FM 4473 testing rates assemblies for hail resistance: MH (Moderate Hail, 1.25" steel ball), SH (Severe Hail, 1.75" ball), and VSH (Very Severe Hail, 2" ball). For Austin, we recommend SH-rated assemblies minimum. This typically means: (1) high-density polyiso or gypsum cover board over insulation, (2) 60-mil or 80-mil membrane, and (3) proper attachment. The cover board absorbs impact energy before it reaches the membrane. Standing seam metal is inherently hail-resistant—it dents but doesn't fail.
Extreme UV Degradation
Impact: Austin receives 300+ days of sunshine annually with UV index regularly reaching 10-11 (extreme). This is significantly more UV exposure than most of the country. Every 20°F increase in membrane surface temperature approximately doubles the rate of polymer degradation. Black EPDM roofs in Austin reach 170°F+ on summer afternoons, degrading at roughly twice the rate of the same membrane in Chicago. White membranes still reach 130-140°F—better, but still harsh. UV breaks down the polymer chains in all membrane types, causing brittleness, cracking, and eventual failure.
Our Solution: White reflective membranes are mandatory for acceptable service life in Austin—black roofs simply don't last here. Beyond color, membrane formulation matters: UV stabilizer packages vary significantly between manufacturers and product lines. We specify membranes with documented UV stability for high-exposure installations. For maximum longevity, consider heavier membrane gauges (80-mil vs 60-mil) which have more material to degrade before failure. KEE-reinforced PVC provides superior UV resistance for 25+ year service life expectations.
Thermal Cycling Stress
Impact: Austin's daily temperature swings are dramatic—40-50°F differences between afternoon highs and overnight lows are common in spring and fall. A roof surface might go from 150°F at 3pm to 70°F at 6am. This repeated expansion and contraction stresses membrane seams hundreds of times per year. Adhesive seams (EPDM tape, some TPO tape applications) are particularly vulnerable to thermal cycling; the adhesive fatigues and separates over time. Mechanically-attached membranes must accommodate movement without tearing at fasteners.
Our Solution: Heat-welded seams (TPO, PVC) dramatically outperform adhesive seams under thermal cycling—the welded connection is homogeneous and moves with the membrane rather than fighting against it. For mechanically-attached systems, we use appropriate fastener plates and patterns that allow thermal movement. Expansion joints at building separations and large roof areas (typically every 200-300 feet) accommodate structural movement. We avoid fully-adhered systems over steel decks, which experience more thermal movement than concrete.
Vapor Control (Simpler Than Humid Climates)
Impact: Unlike humid coastal climates where vapor drive is strongly inward year-round, Austin's hot-dry climate creates less severe vapor pressure differentials. Summer vapor drive is still predominantly inward (hot exterior to air-conditioned interior), but winter reverses this. The lower ambient humidity means less moisture available to cause problems. However, poorly detailed assemblies can still trap moisture, particularly over occupied spaces with high interior humidity (restaurants, pools, manufacturing).
Our Solution: For most Austin commercial applications, we design assemblies that can dry in both directions—no vapor retarder, or a vapor retarder that allows some permeance. This 'smart' approach handles seasonal vapor drive reversal better than trying to create a perfect vapor barrier (which never works anyway). For high-humidity interiors, we assess psychrometric conditions and may specify a vapor retarder on the exterior side of insulation. Core samples during assessment reveal whether existing assemblies have moisture problems.
Intense Rainfall Events
Impact: While Austin averages only 32 inches annually (half of coastal Texas), that rain often falls in intense bursts—2-4 inches per hour during severe thunderstorms. Flat roofs must handle these short-duration, high-intensity events without ponding or overflow. Undersized drains or scuppers that work fine for gentle rain can't keep up with Austin storms, leading to temporary ponding that adds structural load and accelerates membrane wear in ponded areas.
Our Solution: We size drainage for Austin's rainfall intensity, not just annual totals. This means larger drain bowls, more drains per square foot than some markets require, and overflow provisions (secondary drains or scuppers) for every drainage area. Minimum ¼" per foot slope to drains, created with tapered insulation where needed. We verify actual installed slope rather than trusting drawings—settlement and deck irregularities often reduce effective drainage.
Rooftop Equipment Challenges
Impact: Austin commercial roofs are working platforms—HVAC units, exhaust fans, satellite dishes, solar panels, and increasingly, equipment for tech tenants. Each penetration is a potential leak point, and each service visit risks membrane damage. In Austin's heat, membrane surfaces soften during summer afternoons, making them more susceptible to damage from tools, equipment, and foot traffic.
Our Solution: Walk pads at all traffic paths and around equipment. Equipment supports that distribute loads (no point loading on membrane). High-quality flashings at all penetrations—factory-fabricated boots and curb flashings rather than field-built details. For roofs with heavy service traffic, modified bitumen's superior puncture resistance may be appropriate despite higher cost. We coordinate equipment layout during design to minimize penetrations and create logical traffic patterns.
Commercial Flat Roofing Across Austin Building Types
We work across all Austin commercial sectors. Each building type has distinct roofing considerations:
Tech & Office Campus
Austin's tech boom created millions of square feet of office space, from downtown high-rises to suburban campuses in the Domain, Mueller, and along 360. Buildings range from 1990s construction now due for first reroof to brand new speculative office.
Tenant disruption is the primary concern—nobody wants roofing noise during business hours or debris on their Tesla. We typically work nights/weekends or during tenant transitions. Energy efficiency matters here; reflective membranes reduce cooling costs measurably, and Austin Energy offers commercial incentives for qualifying cool roof installations. Post-hail damage is common on these roofs—many tech buildings got budget roofs during construction boom.
Retail & Restaurant
Strip centers, standalone retail, restaurants along South Congress, East Austin, and suburban corridors. Customer experience is everything; any disruption affects revenue directly.
We phase work to keep businesses open. Restaurant exhaust exposure is common—PVC membrane is required for any roof section near kitchen exhausts (grease and cooking oils destroy TPO and EPDM). Odor-free installation methods essential for occupied restaurants. Many retail centers have minimal slopes that create ponding; we address drainage as part of any reroofing project.
Warehouse & Distribution
Austin's growth has driven massive warehouse construction along I-35, in Del Valle, and in eastern suburbs. Large footprints (50,000-500,000 sq ft) with simple geometries. Many are 24/7 operations.
Scale drives efficiency—larger roofs mean lower per-square-foot costs. Hail damage is the primary claim driver on these roofs; we recommend SH-rated assemblies even for 'budget' warehouses because the claim frequency on standard assemblies makes them expensive over time. For unconditioned warehouses, cooling costs don't drive membrane selection, but UV degradation still does—white membranes last longer regardless of building use.
Multi-Family & HOA
Apartment complexes, condos, and townhome communities with flat or low-slope common area roofs (clubhouses, carports, breezeway covers). Often managed by property management companies with budget constraints.
Multiple building coordination, resident notification, and phased schedules are standard. Reserve studies often underestimate roofing costs—we help property managers with realistic budgeting. Carport structures frequently have minimal structural capacity, limiting options. HOA approval processes require documentation we're experienced providing.
Medical & Healthcare
Clinics, surgery centers, medical office buildings with strict operational requirements. HVAC criticality is extreme—temperature-controlled spaces can't tolerate HVAC downtime.
Infection control protocols may restrict when and how we work on occupied healthcare facilities. Patient noise sensitivity affects scheduling. We coordinate carefully around mechanical equipment—HVAC systems on medical buildings are often more complex than standard commercial, with redundancy requirements that affect how we sequence penetration work.
Industrial & Manufacturing
Manufacturing facilities, clean rooms, food processing plants with specific environmental requirements and often hazardous materials considerations.
Chemical exposure from exhaust requires membrane selection (PVC for most chemical exposure). Heavy equipment traffic on roof for maintenance requires durable surfaces. Some facilities have 24/7 operations with zero-downtime requirements. We assess roof loading for equipment additions and coordinate with facility engineers on any structural questions.
Austin Commercial Flat Roof Costs: 2026 Market Rates
Commercial flat roof pricing in Austin must account for our hail exposure and UV intensity. Standard assemblies that work in milder climates fail prematurely here. The pricing below reflects assemblies appropriate for Central Texas:
TPO—Standard Assembly
$6 - $9 per sq ft installed
60-mil white TPO over polyiso insulation with standard fastening. Appropriate for buildings with lower hail exposure (covered by adjacent structures) or where budget constraints are primary. FM 4473 MH (Moderate Hail) rated. 15-20 year typical service life in Austin. We use this where it's appropriate, but it's not our default recommendation.
TPO—Hail-Resistant Assembly
$8 - $12 per sq ft installed
Our recommended specification for Austin: 60-mil or 80-mil white TPO over high-density polyiso or gypsum cover board, with appropriate fastening for FM 4473 SH (Severe Hail) rating. The cover board costs $1-2/sq ft more than standard but absorbs hail impact before it reaches the membrane. 20-25 year typical service life. This assembly survives the storms that destroy standard roofs.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
$8 - $12 per sq ft installed
Premium single-ply with better UV resistance than TPO and excellent chemical resistance. Required for any roof section near restaurant/kitchen exhausts. Heat-welded seams. KEE-reinforced PVC (Sarnafil, Duro-Last) provides superior longevity for 25+ year expectations—worth the premium for long-term holds.
EPDM (Rubber)
$5 - $8 per sq ft installed
Lower material cost but significant limitations in Austin. Black EPDM degrades rapidly under our UV exposure (expect 12-18 year life vs 25+ in northern climates). White EPDM costs nearly as much as TPO with inferior seam performance. We install EPDM where specifically appropriate (shaded areas, limited budgets) but don't recommend it as a default for exposed Austin roofs.
Modified Bitumen (SBS)
$7 - $11 per sq ft installed
Multi-layer asphalt system with excellent puncture resistance—better than single-ply for roofs with heavy foot traffic or equipment. SBS modification provides good flexibility across Austin's temperature range. Two or three-ply systems offer redundancy. White cap sheets available for reflectivity. Good option for service-intensive buildings.
Standing Seam Metal
$12 - $18 per sq ft installed
For sloped commercial roofs (1:12 minimum). Inherently hail-resistant—metal dents but doesn't fail. 40-60 year service life with minimal maintenance. Highest upfront cost but lowest lifecycle cost. Excellent choice for buildings with visible rooflines or owners prioritizing longevity. We specify 24-gauge minimum with Kynar finish for Austin UV exposure.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
$6 - $10 per sq ft installed
Spray-applied insulation and waterproofing in one seamless system. Can add R-value and create positive slope in recover applications. Requires elastomeric coating for UV protection (silicone or polyurethane). Recoating needed every 10-15 years. Good option for energy upgrades or recovering over existing smooth-surfaced roofs.
Roof Coating (Restoration)
$2 - $5 per sq ft installed
For existing roofs with intact membrane but worn surface. Silicone, acrylic, or polyurethane coatings extend roof life 10-15 years at 30-50% of replacement cost. Only appropriate when existing roof is structurally sound, not saturated, and has good drainage. We assess honestly whether coating is viable or whether full replacement is better investment.
Factors Affecting Price
- 1Hail resistance rating required (standard vs FM SH vs FM VSH)
- 2Existing roof removal vs. recover (recover saves 25-40% when appropriate)
- 3Cover board type and thickness for impact resistance
- 4Insulation requirements (Austin energy code, R-value specifications)
- 5Number and complexity of rooftop penetrations
- 6Access logistics (crane requirements, staging areas, high-rise considerations)
- 7Phasing requirements for occupied buildings
- 8Warranty level selected (standard vs NDL enhanced)
Pricing reflects 2026 Austin market rates for properly specified assemblies. If you're seeing significantly lower bids, check whether they include cover boards, appropriate membrane gauge, and FM-rated attachment—these details matter for Austin's hail exposure.
How We Approach Commercial Flat Roofing in Austin
Commercial flat roofing in Austin requires attention to local conditions—particularly hail exposure and UV intensity. Here's how we approach projects:
Initial Consultation
We start with understanding your situation: What's driving the project? Are you addressing hail damage, dealing with leaks, planning proactive capital expenditure, or upgrading for energy efficiency? What are your operational constraints and budget parameters?
Local Note: If you've had recent hail damage, we discuss whether to file an insurance claim. Many Austin commercial roof replacements are insurance-funded after hail events—proper documentation and claim strategy matters.
Site Assessment
Comprehensive roof inspection including core samples to assess existing conditions. We document membrane condition, insulation integrity (checking for moisture), deck type, drainage effectiveness, penetrations, and overall assembly composition.
Local Note: For Austin buildings, we specifically assess hail damage—both obvious punctures and the subtle micro-fracturing that accelerates UV degradation. Many roofs have hail damage that's not obviously leaking but has shortened remaining life significantly.
Moisture Survey (When Indicated)
For buildings with suspected moisture problems or as part of insurance claims, we conduct infrared scanning and/or nuclear moisture testing to map wet insulation areas. Installing new membrane over saturated insulation guarantees premature failure.
Local Note: We find hidden moisture damage in roughly 25% of Austin commercial roofs we assess—often from old hail punctures that were 'repaired' rather than replaced, or from failed flashings.
Assembly Specification
Based on assessment findings, we design a complete assembly—not just membrane selection, but cover board specification for hail resistance, insulation type and R-value, attachment method, and all flashing details. We explain the reasoning and trade-offs.
Local Note: For Austin, we default to FM SH (Severe Hail) rated assemblies unless specific conditions justify otherwise. We also discuss Austin Energy rebate eligibility for cool roof installations—the incentive can offset $0.50-$1.00/sq ft of project cost.
Insurance Coordination (If Applicable)
For hail-damaged roofs, we work with your insurance carrier through the claim process. This includes providing detailed damage documentation, meeting with adjusters, and ensuring the scope covers proper replacement (not just repairs that will fail next storm).
Local Note: Austin insurers are experienced with hail claims—they know what constitutes total loss vs. repairable damage. We document thoroughly to support full replacement when warranted, and we push back on inadequate repair scopes.
Detailed Proposal
Written proposal with complete scope, material specifications, FM rating, timeline, and pricing. We include warranty options and can provide multiple assembly alternatives for cost comparison. For insurance projects, we format proposals to match adjuster requirements.
Pre-Construction Coordination
Before starting, we confirm schedule, establish communication protocols, and review building-specific requirements. For occupied buildings, we coordinate tenant notification. For insurance projects, we confirm claim approval and supplement if scope changed.
Local Note: We track Austin weather forecasts during project scheduling. Starting tear-off before severe weather is predicted isn't smart. We ensure daily watertightness even on multi-week projects.
Installation
Execution per specification with daily progress updates. Cover board installation first (critical for hail protection as soon as possible), then membrane. Heat-welded seams with automatic welding equipment for consistency. All penetration flashings completed before moving to next section.
Local Note: Austin summer heat affects installation—membrane welding is actually easier in heat, but adhesive applications have temperature limits. We schedule work around extreme conditions when necessary.
Quality Verification & Closeout
Continuous oversight during installation plus final walkthrough. Flood testing to verify watertight installation. Comprehensive documentation including photos, warranty certificates, FM rating confirmation, and maintenance recommendations.
Commercial Flat Roof Systems: Honest Assessment for Austin
Each roofing system has trade-offs. Here's our straight assessment of what performs in Austin—accounting for our hail exposure, UV intensity, and thermal cycling that makes Central Texas different from 'typical' markets:
TPO with Hail-Resistant Cover Board
Why for Austin
Our default recommendation for Austin commercial flat roofs. White TPO provides essential reflectivity (reducing cooling costs and extending membrane life), and heat-welded seams handle thermal cycling well. The key is the assembly: a high-density cover board (gypsum like DensDeck Prime, or high-density polyiso) over standard insulation absorbs hail impact energy before it reaches the membrane. This assembly survives hailstorms that destroy standard TPO installations.
Best For
Most Austin commercial applications: office, retail, warehouse, multi-family
Considerations
We specify 60-mil minimum membrane (80-mil for high-traffic roofs), polyester-reinforced. Cover board adds $1-2/sq ft but is essential for Austin—it's not an upgrade, it's the baseline for our climate. Total assembly must achieve FM 4473 SH rating. We use automatic welding equipment for consistent seams; hand-welding quality varies too much.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Why for Austin
PVC offers better inherent UV resistance than TPO and superior chemical resistance. Required for any roof section near restaurant/kitchen exhausts—grease and cooking oils destroy TPO but PVC handles them. Heat-welded seams equal to TPO. For maximum longevity, KEE-reinforced PVC (Sarnafil, Duro-Last) provides the best UV stability for 25-30 year service life expectations.
Best For
Restaurants and food service, manufacturing with chemical exposure, buildings prioritizing maximum longevity
Considerations
Premium over TPO is typically 20-30% but justified for specific applications. Standard PVC still needs cover board protection for hail resistance in Austin. KEE-reinforced products cost more but documented performance in high-UV climates is superior. Fire resistance ratings better than TPO if that's a concern.
Standing Seam Metal
Why for Austin
The most hail-resistant commercial roofing option available. Metal dents under hail impact but doesn't puncture or fail—it keeps working. This is a significant advantage in Austin where hail is frequent. Additionally: 40-60 year service life, minimal maintenance, and attractive for buildings with visible rooflines. Kynar/PVDF finishes resist UV fading.
Best For
Sloped commercial roofs (1:12 minimum), buildings in severe hail zones, owners prioritizing longevity, visible rooflines where aesthetics matter
Considerations
Requires slope—not for true flat roofs. Higher upfront cost but lowest lifecycle cost when you factor in hail damage over 30+ years. We specify 24-gauge minimum with concealed clips for thermal movement. Oil-canning (waviness) possible with lighter gauges; proper specification prevents this.
Modified Bitumen (SBS)
Why for Austin
Multi-layer asphalt system with better inherent puncture resistance than single-ply membranes. Two or three-ply installation provides redundancy—if the top layer is damaged, lower layers still waterproof. Easier field repairs than single-ply. SBS modification stays flexible across Austin's temperature range. Good choice for roofs with heavy foot traffic or where repairability is valued.
Best For
Heavy equipment traffic, service-intensive buildings, historic structures, projects prioritizing redundancy and repairability
Considerations
Torch-applied installation requires fire watch protocols. Self-adhered options available but don't perform identically. White granule or aluminum coating cap sheets provide reflectivity. Heavier than single-ply—verify structural capacity. Still needs cover board for optimal hail performance.
EPDM (Rubber)
Why for Austin
Honestly, we install less EPDM in Austin than we used to. Black EPDM degrades rapidly under our UV intensity—roof surface temperatures exceeding 170°F accelerate polymer breakdown. Expect 12-18 year life in Austin vs 25+ in northern climates. Adhesive seams underperform heat-welded in our thermal cycling. White EPDM exists but costs nearly as much as TPO with inferior seam performance.
Best For
Shaded locations, unconditioned storage where degradation timeline is acceptable, budget-constrained projects where shorter life is understood
Considerations
If you're quoted EPDM as a primary option for an exposed Austin roof, question why. It may be a contractor defaulting to what they know rather than what's optimal. We install EPDM when it's genuinely appropriate, but we'll explain the trade-offs honestly.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
Why for Austin
SPF provides insulation and waterproofing in one seamless application—no seams to fail under thermal cycling. Can create positive slope for drainage and add significant R-value over existing roofs. Seamless application eliminates typical failure points. Good option for energy-focused retrofits.
Best For
Energy efficiency upgrades, recover over existing smooth-surfaced roofs, complex shapes with many penetrations, buildings needing additional insulation
Considerations
Must be protected with elastomeric coating (silicone or polyurethane) for UV resistance—the foam itself degrades in sunlight. Coating reapplication required every 10-15 years. Not hail-resistant without significant coating thickness. Application requires specialized equipment and trained applicators. Not appropriate for all situations.
Roof Coatings (Restoration)
Why for Austin
For existing roofs with membrane in sound condition but worn surface. Coatings can extend roof life 10-15 years at 30-50% of replacement cost. Silicone coatings handle ponding water better than most alternatives. Increasingly popular as a sustainable option—keeps existing roof out of landfill.
Best For
Existing roofs with no active leaks, intact membrane, good drainage, and owners wanting to extend life rather than replace
Considerations
Not appropriate for hail-damaged roofs (the damage is in the membrane, not just the surface). Not appropriate for saturated insulation. We evaluate honestly whether restoration is viable; sometimes full replacement is the better investment even when coating is technically possible.
Commercial Flat Roofing Experience in Austin
Austin commercial flat roofing requires understanding local conditions—the hail exposure, UV intensity, and thermal cycling that make Central Texas different. Generic 'commercial roofer' approaches often fail here. Here's what we bring:
Hail-Smart Assembly Design
We design assemblies for Austin's hail reality, not theoretical conditions. Every spec considers FM 4473 hail ratings. We know which cover boards actually protect membranes (and which don't), how attachment patterns affect hail performance, and where the failure points are in post-storm assessments. Our roofs survive storms that destroy standard installations.
Insurance Process Experience
Many Austin commercial roofs get replaced after hail damage. We know how to document damage for adjusters, what constitutes total loss vs. repairable, and how to ensure claims cover proper replacement rather than band-aid repairs. We've worked with every major commercial insurer in Texas and know their processes and expectations.
Material Selection for This Climate
We recommend materials based on proven Austin performance, not just manufacturer claims. When we steer you toward hail-resistant assemblies, it's because we've seen standard assemblies destroyed. When we suggest 80-mil membrane over 60-mil, it's because the extra material matters for UV longevity here. When we discourage black EPDM, it's because we've torn off failed EPDM roofs that should have lasted longer.
We Respect Your Operations
Your building is your business—or your tenants' business. We don't treat commercial projects like residential with a bigger roof. We plan around your operations, communicate proactively, work nights and weekends when needed, and do what we say when we say we'll do it.
Direct Crew Control
We don't subcontract commercial work. Our crews are our employees, trained in commercial systems, and directly supervised. This gives us quality control that subcontractor models can't match. When something needs to be done right, we don't hope a sub does it—we ensure it happens.
Commercial Flat Roofing: What We've Learned in Austin
Commercial flat roofing in Austin follows a predictable pattern: hail hits, insurance claims surge, roofs get replaced, and the cycle repeats. What we've learned is that the replacement specs matter enormously for breaking this cycle.
The April 2021 and April 2024 hailstorms revealed the difference clearly. Standard TPO roofs—45-mil or 60-mil membrane directly over polyiso, the cheapest way to meet code—got destroyed. Hundreds of claims. Meanwhile, roofs with proper cover boards (high-density gypsum or polyiso) and heavier membranes came through with minor cosmetic damage at most. Same storms, completely different outcomes based on assembly design.
The math actually favors spending more upfront. A hail-resistant assembly costs maybe $2/sq ft more than standard. On a 20,000 sq ft roof, that's $40,000. But a single hail claim means insurance deductibles ($25,000-$50,000 typically for commercial), business disruption during replacement, premium increases, and sometimes policy non-renewal. The 'expensive' assembly pays for itself by avoiding one claim.
Beyond hail, we've learned that Austin's UV intensity is no joke. EPDM roofs from northern manufacturers with northern expectations fail faster here. The 20-year warranty doesn't mean 20-year life when your roof surface hits 170°F regularly. White reflective membranes aren't just energy savings—they're survival. A white roof at 130°F is degrading at roughly half the rate of a black roof at 170°F.
Our approach is straightforward: design assemblies for Austin conditions specifically, execute with attention to detail, and maintain relationships for ongoing inspection and maintenance. It's not complicated, but it requires understanding that Austin isn't 'typical.'
Recent Projects
North Austin Tech Campus—Post-Hail Replacement
85,000 sq ft across three buildings. Original roof was standard 60-mil TPO over polyiso, destroyed in April 2024 hailstorm. Insurance-funded replacement.
Challenge: Original roof was only 8 years old—destroyed by hail that a proper assembly would have survived. Owner wanted to break the damage cycle.
Solution: Specified 80-mil TPO over half-inch DensDeck gypsum cover board—FM SH rated assembly. Higher spec than insurance initially scoped; we documented why and got approval. Phased installation around tenant occupancy. Zero hail damage in subsequent storms.
East Austin Warehouse District
Two connected distribution warehouses totaling 200,000+ sq ft. 24/7 operation that couldn't shut down. Owner skeptical of hail-resistant upsell.
Challenge: Budget-conscious owner questioned whether cover boards were necessary for 'just a warehouse.' Previous roof was standard TPO, 6 years old, being replaced for hail damage.
Solution: Walked through the math: standard assembly would likely require claim within 5-7 years based on Austin hail frequency. Their deductible was $35,000. Hail-resistant assembly added $80,000 but avoided virtually certain repeat claim. Owner approved upgrade. Completed in sections without disrupting operations.
Domain-Area Retail Center
32,000 sq ft strip retail with 12 tenants including two high-volume restaurants. Previous TPO destroyed by grease exposure near kitchen exhausts, plus hail damage elsewhere.
Challenge: Mixed conditions: restaurant exhaust sections needed chemical resistance, rest of roof needed hail resistance, and work had to happen around tenant operations.
Solution: PVC membrane for all sections within 50 feet of kitchen exhausts (required for grease resistance). Hail-resistant TPO assembly for remainder. Coordinated with restaurant closures for exhaust-adjacent work. Completed without complaints from other tenants. Different materials for different conditions—not one-size-fits-all.
South Austin Multi-Family
180-unit apartment complex across 6 buildings. Mix of flat and low-slope roofs. Property management company with multiple Austin properties.
Challenge: Limited budget from reserve funds. Couldn't afford hail-resistant assemblies on all buildings. Needed to prioritize.
Solution: Assessed each building's exposure. Buildings 1-3 had more tree cover (some hail protection); buildings 4-6 were fully exposed. Specified standard assemblies on protected buildings, hail-resistant on exposed buildings. Honest conversation about trade-offs. Property manager appreciated the prioritization approach rather than one-size-fits-all.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does hail damage Austin commercial roofs?
Austin averages 3-5 significant hail events per year. Not every storm damages every roof, but standard single-ply assemblies (without cover boards) are vulnerable to 1"+ hail, which occurs regularly. We estimate a standard TPO roof in Austin has roughly 60-70% chance of sustaining hail damage requiring claim within 10 years. Hail-resistant assemblies (FM SH rated) dramatically reduce this probability—they're designed to survive 1.75" hail impact.
What makes a commercial roof "hail-resistant"?
FM 4473 is the testing standard. Assemblies are rated MH (Moderate Hail—survives 1.25" ice ball), SH (Severe Hail—survives 1.75" ball), or VSH (Very Severe Hail—survives 2" ball). For Austin, we recommend SH minimum. The key component is a high-density cover board (gypsum like DensDeck, or HD polyiso) over insulation, which absorbs impact energy before it reaches the membrane. Heavier membrane gauges (60-80 mil) also improve resistance. The complete assembly matters—not just the membrane spec.
Should I file an insurance claim for hail-damaged commercial roof?
Usually yes, if damage is significant. Commercial roof claims are common in Austin—insurers expect them. The key is proper documentation: we provide detailed damage assessments with photos and affected area mapping. Consider your deductible (typically $10,000-$50,000 for commercial), potential premium increases, and whether damage warrants full replacement vs repair. We help you evaluate whether claiming makes financial sense and ensure claims are properly documented when you proceed.
How long do commercial flat roofs last in Austin?
Service life varies significantly based on assembly and maintenance. Standard TPO/PVC: 15-20 years with proper maintenance (less if hail-damaged). Hail-resistant TPO/PVC assemblies: 20-25 years. KEE-reinforced PVC: 25-30 years. Modified bitumen: 15-20 years. Standing seam metal: 40-60 years. EPDM in Austin: honestly 12-18 years due to UV degradation (less than manufacturer warranties suggest because those are based on northern climates). These assume no catastrophic hail damage, which can end any roof's life prematurely.
What commercial roofing system is most hail-resistant?
Standing seam metal is the most inherently hail-resistant commercial roofing option—it dents but doesn't puncture or leak. For flat roofs specifically, modified bitumen with granule surface offers good hail resistance, followed by TPO/PVC assemblies with proper cover boards (FM SH rated). The assembly matters more than the membrane alone: a standard 60-mil TPO will be punctured by hail that an SH-rated assembly survives.
Is EPDM a good choice for Austin commercial roofs?
Generally no. Black EPDM reaches surface temperatures exceeding 170°F in Austin summers, degrading polymer chains at roughly twice the rate of northern climates. Expect 12-18 year life vs 25+ years in Minnesota. Adhesive seams also underperform under our thermal cycling. White EPDM exists but costs nearly as much as TPO with inferior seam performance. We install EPDM where it's genuinely appropriate (shaded areas, budget-constrained projects with understood trade-offs) but don't recommend it as default for exposed Austin roofs.
What Austin Energy incentives exist for commercial roofing?
Austin Energy offers rebates for qualifying 'cool roof' installations that meet ENERGY STAR reflectivity requirements. Incentives vary but typically run $0.10-$0.15 per sq ft for commercial properties. White TPO, PVC, and coated systems generally qualify. We assess eligibility during project planning and help with rebate applications. The incentive won't pay for the roof, but it offsets meaningful cost on large projects.
How often should Austin commercial roofs be inspected?
Minimum twice annually (spring and fall) plus after any significant storm event. Austin's hail frequency makes post-storm inspections critical—damage that's not obviously leaking still shortens roof life. Regular inspections catch minor issues (clogged drains, damaged flashings, seam separation) before they become major problems. We offer maintenance contracts that include scheduled inspections for clients who want proactive roof management.
Can you install over an existing commercial roof?
Sometimes. If existing roof is structurally sound, not saturated (verified by moisture testing), and building codes allow additional layers, recover can save 25-40% vs tear-off. However: if existing insulation is wet, it must come off. If existing membrane has hail damage, recovering over it doesn't fix the problem. We assess honestly whether recover is appropriate—it's not always the right choice even when technically possible.
How do you handle roofing for occupied buildings?
Standard practice for commercial work. We phase projects to minimize disruption, work nights/weekends for noise-sensitive tenants (premium may apply), coordinate with property managers on tenant communication, and ensure daily watertightness so business operations aren't at risk. We plan around your operations—not the other way around. Every project includes communication protocols so you know what's happening and when.
What warranty options do you offer for commercial roofing?
Multiple tiers: Standard manufacturer warranties (10-15 years, material coverage). Enhanced warranties with labor coverage (15-20 years). No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranties that cover full replacement without depreciation (20 years). GAF NDL warranties require certified installation, which we provide as Master Elite contractor. Read exclusions carefully—most warranties exclude hail damage over certain sizes, though FM-rated assemblies are designed to prevent that damage in the first place.
Do you provide emergency commercial roof repairs?
Yes. Commercial leaks damage inventory, disrupt operations, and create liability. We respond to emergency calls with temporary repairs (sealing active leaks, tarping damaged areas) to stop immediate damage, then plan permanent solutions. After hailstorms, we prioritize existing clients for damage assessment and emergency tarping. Call (512) 877-3087 for emergencies.
Contact information
Thank you for considering us for roofing needs. We will get back to you during normal business hours.
