Flat roofing is a term used to describe low-slope roofs in both residential and commercial properties. Though flat roofs are almost level in comparison with their steeply-pitched counterparts, they are not completely flat; they have very low slopes that allow to them drain water.
There are many different options available among flat roofing materials, making it easy to create a project that meets any budget or lifestyle.
Choosing a flat roofing system for your home or commercial property has many benefits. From accessibility to energy-saving, here are some of the advantages flat roofs offer:
Flat roofing provides excellent protection against inclement weather and is relatively easy to maintain throughout its lifetime. Its layers are easy to remove when the roof is in need of resurfacing or repairs, making the process (in most cases) quick and painless.
Flat roofs are also extremely accessible. Their level surfaces make them safer to walk on than traditionally sloped roofs, allowing for quick inspection, diagnosis, and maintenance. With the ability to simply climb a ladder and step atop, it’s not difficult to spot and address an issue. Care and caution should always be used when climbing on a roof.Flat roofing can be a great energy saver. Because energy escapes through our roofs and contributes to climate change, insulation is incredibly important. It is easy to improve the insulation of a building with a flat roof system. As long as the structure can hold the weight, contractors can apply layer upon layer of protection.
International building code was recently updated to call for increased insulation. If you have an existing flat roofing system in need of improvement, we recommend a roof replacement including additional layers of insulation.
Improving the insulation of your home or commercial property not only benefits the environment, but also your wallet. By minimizing the amount of energy that escapes through your roof, you minimize the high cost of energy-related expenses in the winter. A flat roofing system also provides ample space for the instillation of solar panels.
This brings us to another advantage of flat roofing systems: the space they provide. Do you want to save room in your backyard? Put your air conditioning unit on the roof. Do you have tenants in your apartment complex asking for a community garden? Create one on top of the building. Are company employees looking for a more casual space to meet clients and prospects? Design an outdoor lounge. There is an infinite list of possibilities for utilizing your flat roof, allowing you to maximize your interior space.
If you are looking into a flat roof for your home or commercial building, there are several options to choose from.
Built-up roofs, sometimes referred to as “tar and gravel roofs,” are one of the most popular styles of flat roofing. They are composed of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt) and fabric. These layers are then topped by an aggregate, such as stone or gravel. The end result is a continuous, sealed surface.
Modified bitumen roofing is similar to built-up roofing, but uses asphalt and plastic or rubber polymers in its layers. The combination of reinforcement layers used in modified bitumen roofing makes it extremely heat-resistant.
EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, a synthetic rubber that works wonderfully for roofs. EPDM is incredibly durable. It can withstand UV and direct exposure to sunlight, making it a great compound for the top of a building.
Flat roofs come in more styles than bitumen and rubber. Spray foam roofs’ first layer is a high-density polyurethane foam. The foam is then coated with a waterproofing elastomeric top coat. This method is energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and provides a durable finished product.
These are some of many types of flat roofing systems available.
Having a flat roof has many benefits, but there are still some challenges to consider. For instance, flat roofing can be vulnerable to leaks, ponding, punctures and blistering, which prevents proper water drainage from the roof.
The good news is that a professional roofer will take steps to prevent these issues from occurring. It is important that your flat roofing system be installed correctly by a professional; this minimizes the potential for water leakage and accumulation, which could lead to costly damage to property and possessions or worse, severe injury to tenants or occupants.
To properly preserve a flat roofing system, the roof needs to be equipped with waterproof material and outfitted with a good drainage system.
Is it time to install a new roof on your commercial property or home? Our flat roofing specialists are here to help. An Advocate representative will ensure that your roof repair or installation project is easy and stress-free. Get a free flat roof inspection today by calling 833-409-ROOF.