QRS Founder Danny Young
Quality Roofing Services Founder Danny Young has been in the commercial roofing business since 1970. This series of blogposts will convey some of the vast knowledge his experience as a commercial roofer has provided. If you have a question for Danny, please submit it here.
When I founded Quality Roofing Services in 1970, we were working with tar kettles, asphalt, and modified bitumen systems. Over 55 years, the industry has transformed—today, membranes like EPDM, PVC, and TPO dominate commercial rooftops. But no matter how materials evolve, one fact remains: roofing in southern New England brings challenges you won’t see in other regions of the country.
For building owners and property managers, understanding these regional differences is critical for protecting your investment. Here are four factors that make commercial roofing in our region unique—and what they mean for your buildings.
Coastal Climate and Variable Precipitation
Southern New England’s climate is defined by extremes. Along the shoreline, winter often means heavy rain or wet snow, while just a few miles inland, freeze-thaw cycles become the bigger concern. Summers bring high humidity and severe thunderstorms.
Implication: Commercial flat and low-slope roofs need membrane systems that can handle standing water, expansion and contraction, and year-round moisture. Materials like EPDM, PVC, and TPO are specifically engineered to withstand ponding, resist UV damage, and stay flexible through temperature swings. Drainage design and detailing around flashings become critical for long-term performance.
Freeze-Thaw and Seasonal Stress
Unlike parts of the country with consistent hot or cold weather, southern New England experiences constant transitions. Roof surfaces may thaw in the daytime sun, then re-freeze overnight—expanding and contracting daily. Over time, this cycle can crack seams, stress fasteners, and degrade adhesives.
Implication: Membranes with welded seams (like PVC and TPO) and fully adhered systems are often preferred for their ability to flex without splitting. Proper insulation and vapor barriers also reduce the risk of condensation forming beneath the membrane during these seasonal shifts.
Energy Efficiency in Sun-Soaked Summers
Flat commercial roofs really take a beating in the summer. On a hot July afternoon, we’ve measured rooftop temperatures well over 140°F, and that heat puts extra strain on the HVAC systems inside.
White reflective membranes like TPO and PVC do a great job of bouncing the sun’s rays and keeping rooftop temps down. But that doesn’t rule EPDM out of the energy efficiency conversation. A black EPDM roof, when installed with the right insulation underneath, can perform very well in terms of energy efficiency. The insulation acts as a buffer, stopping much of that rooftop heat from ever reaching the occupied space below. That’s why most of our clients choose EPDM—for its long-term durability—while letting insulation do the heavy lifting on energy performance.
Implication: Whether you go with a reflective membrane or an insulated EPDM system, you can expect measurable benefits—lower cooling costs, more comfortable workspaces, and less wear on your mechanical equipment. In southern New England’s humid summers, that balance of durability and efficiency is something every building manager can appreciate.
Storm Preparedness—Nor’easters and Tropical Systems
Our region isn’t hurricane-prone like the Gulf Coast, but storms such as Hurricane Sandy have proven we’re not immune. More commonly, strong nor’easters bring heavy winds, driving rain, and rapid snow accumulation.
Implication: Commercial roofs in southern New England must be designed and installed for resilience. Mechanically fastened or fully adhered membranes, reinforced perimeter flashings, and secure insulation attachment all help resist wind uplift. Roofs must also be engineered to drain properly under heavy precipitation loads, reducing the risk of structural stress or collapse.
What It Means for Building Owners and Managers
Material Selection
- EPDM: outstanding resistance to ponding water and long service life
- TPO/PVC: superior reflectivity, welded seams for strength, and excellent energy performance
Design Considerations
- Prioritize insulation and drainage to handle freeze-thaw and heavy precipitation
- Ensure flashings and terminations are reinforced to resist wind and water intrusion
Maintenance Planning
- Schedule routine inspections—especially after major storms—to identify and correct issues early
- Keep drains clear and membranes clean to preserve performance
Over the decades, I’ve watched the roofing industry change dramatically. But the lesson for southern New England hasn’t changed: your roof is your building’s first defense against a volatile coastal climate. When properly designed, installed, and maintained, a commercial roof here can deliver decades of protection, energy efficiency, and peace of mind.
At Quality Roofing Services, we’ve built our reputation on knowing this region’s conditions inside and out. If you manage a commercial property in southern New England, your roof deserves a solution tailored to the unique challenges of this environment.
Contact us to learn more.
