Flat roof materials and what they cost in Houston
TPO (white single-ply membrane). The most common choice for new flat roofs in Texas because the reflective surface cuts heat gain significantly in summer. Heat-welded seams are durable when installed correctly. Mid-range cost.
Modified bitumen. Asphalt-based rolled roofing, torch-applied or self-adhered. Common on older homes and additions. Durable and easy to repair, but dark surfaces absorb heat unless a reflective coating is added. Similar cost to TPO.
EPDM (black rubber). Long-lived and easy to patch, but the black surface is a liability in Texas heat. Often the lowest material cost. Roof coatings (silicone or acrylic) can extend the life of an existing membrane at a fraction of replacement cost when the substrate is sound.
What moves the price: tear-off of existing layers, wet insulation that has to be replaced, tapered insulation to fix drainage, the number of penetrations and HVAC curbs, and parapet wall flashing.
