3 Flat Roofs for Your Roofing Needs

Today’s homeowners can choose from a few different kinds of flat roofs. All four of these types of flat roofs are costly but have a fantastic 10 to 20 year warranty.

Built-Up Roof

The traditional. A hot tar and gravel roof that is built with 3 or more plies of waterproof material an ballasted by smooth river stone. They were once made of tar paper but new technologies are bringing fiberglass membranes into the pictures and it is more widely used.

What is good?

As far as fire retardants go, gravel is very good. This type of roof can also be aesthetically pleasing for desks and windows that look over the roof.

What  is not so good?

It’s pretty darn heavy. The Joists (a horizontal structural member used in framing) have to be strengthened. They are messy to install. Not recommended for people who already live in their home. It is not a do-it-yourself job and requires maintenance to find the leaks that are common to homes.Gutter and scuppers get clogged.

Modified Bitumen

A 1-ply single rolled roof. It is similar to an ice and water shield but with a mineral based wear surface heated as it is unrolled. The newer peel-and-stick surfaces are easier to install and safer for the homeowner.

What is good?

It is DIY and can be installed by skilled homeowners. It is a light in color mineral based wear surface that cuts energy bills priced right in the middle.

What is not so good?

It is a fire hazard and again not recommended for people who live in their home.The rubber membranes listed below are more scuff and tear resistant.

Rubber Membrane

Three types

  1. EPDM Rubber
  2. TPO Vinyl
  3. Modified Bitumen Torch Down Roofing

What is good?:

Homeowner-friendly installation. The material’s relatively light yet highly resistant to scuffs and tears. Leaks are easy to patch.

What is not so good?

The standard black material absorbs heat, and light-colored coatings (recommended in warm climates) add 30% or more to the cost. Even the black version, though, costs more than BUR or modified bitumen. It’s also more vulnerable to punctures than other choices.

Call for your consultation on flat roof installation at 608-277-0893!