Roofing is not one of those things that you think about daily. However, it is of prime importance. Roof systems typically fall into two broad categories: pitched roofs and flat roofs. These two types of roofs are completely different styles, and are installed with different roofing materials. Though many people are familiar with pitched roofs, the same is not the case with flat roofing systems. If you want to install a flat roof, then you have come to the right place. Here you will learn about flat roof types and the materials used by roofing contractors. So let’s get started.
What Is A Flat Roof?
Though it is clear from the word itself, a flat roof is a roof that is almost completely flat, without any slope. Flat roofs are typically installed on warehouses, garages, and other buildings where water drainage is important. Flat roofs can be built using a variety of materials, including wood shingles, metal sheets, and concrete tiles.
Things To Know About A Flat Roof
Before going ahead and choosing a material for a flat roofing system in Kettering, it is better to know some of the facts about a flat roof. Below are some important facts that you need to know about flat roofs before making any decisions.
Flat Roofs Have A Slight Slope
There is a misconception that flat roofs don’t have any sort of pitch. However, It’s important to know that a flat roof is not a totally flat surface. There is a slight slope on a flat roof, which helps water to drain. Roofing companies that install a flat roof must design a slope, and this can be done in a variety of ways. Since the slope is minimal, it is not something people would notice without being familiar with this type of roof.
These Systems Are Primarily For Commercial Roof Systems
Flat roof systems are popular in commercial buildings including, warehouses, schools, restaurants, and other businesses. They are a great solution for commercial properties because they can be built to any size, and flat roofs are easy to maintain. The materials used to build flat roofs are easy to get and inexpensive, so it is also one of the most cost-effective roofing options. Also, a flat roof can accommodate an HVAC system and allow space for air to circulate without much maintenance.
Flat Roofs Are Energy Saving
Energy costs can change frequently, so business owners are always looking for the best ways to save money on energy costs. A flat roofing system can reduce energy costs because it is reflective in nature, and the UV rays are bounced back from the roof, leaving the building underneath totally protected from the sun. This will also reduce the temperatures inside a building and reduce the electricity expenses.
Types Of Flat Roof Systems
When it comes to your roofs, you need to know what you’re looking at. Understanding the difference between various types of roofs before starting any roofing project can help you better understand which type of roof material you should buy, and the best way to maintain your roof.
– EPDM
EPDM (rubber) roofing membrane is a single-ply roofing solution made from synthetic rubber and faced with a primer coating. EPDM is an abbreviation for ethylene propylene diene monomer, which also describes its composition materials. EPDM roofing material has become increasingly more popular thanks to its variety of features and benefits.
EPDM material is highly durable, can withstand harsh weather conditions, and lasts for decades. EPDM is also UV resistant, which means it won’t be damaged by the sun’s rays over time. EPDM is flexible enough to expand when heated by the sun, making it more resistant to cracking than some other types of flat roofs. The material comes in different thicknesses and can be installed on both commercial buildings as well as residential properties.
– TPO
TPO provides tough competition for EPDM when it comes to the best choice of flat roof materials in Kettering, OH. TPO stands for thermoplastic olefin. It’s a single-ply reflective roofing membrane made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber polymerized together, so it has the properties of both plastic and rubber. This is a relatively newer roofing material on the market, and it first appeared in the 80s and 90s.
One of the benefits of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing is that you can recycle discarded material when a flat roof replacement is needed. It is also durable and energy-saving. However, on the downside, the lifespan of this roofing material is shorter than some of it’s competitors.
Along with being used for flat roofs, TPO is also commonly used on boats, automotive, and agricultural buildings.
– Modified Bitumen
This is often called the brother of built-up roofing due to their striking similarities. Modified bitumen is a form of asphalt that has been modified to make it a better roofing material. Modified bitumen roofing is made up of three layers: a membrane, an insulation layer, and an outer layer.
It is often used on flat roofs because it’s lightweight. Bitumen is very durable and can last for decades, but it has a few drawbacks: it doesn’t breathe well, which means it won’t allow moisture to evaporate from the surface of the roof. This can lead to water damage over time.
– Metal Roof
Even before being used in the residential arena, metal roofing systems were widely used in commercial buildings.
These roof types are durable, versatile, and long-lasting, making them a great choice for any type of building. A metal flat roof can last up to 50 years if maintained properly. The best part is that metal flat roofs can be installed on both new construction and existing buildings. Metal roofs can withstand the elements and harsh weather conditions including rain and snow, making them perfect for areas like Kettering, OH. These are also resistant to fire and thus won’t burn and affect your business. Some of the popular metals used in flat roof replacement and installation are aluminum, steel, and zinc.
Built-Up Roof
After covering the benefits of a TPO roof, the relatively newest material on the block, let’s move on to the oldest, i.e, built-up roof or simply BUR. Built-up roofing is a type of roof that is made up of multiple layers of asphalt and other materials. These materials are installed one on top of the other to create a waterproof barrier between the interior of your home and the elements outside. It is built up till the top layer is covered by an aggregate material. This is usually gravel or any other heavy stone.
Built-Up roofing can be installed in two methods, hot application, and cold application. Though this has good waterproof and fire resistance properties, this type of roofing material is difficult to install as well as replace.
Want To Install A Flat Roof In Kettering?
Taking proper care of the exterior of your business is one of the most important things you can do as a business owner. One of the most important parts of any property is the roof, and you must make sure that it is always functioning properly. A strong roof structure will protect your business from unwanted outside elements so that you and your employees can work better. If you want a strong and sturdy roof installed on your property, contact All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters.
With over 40 years of combined experience, our professional team of commercial flat roofers has expertise in working with every type of roof. We can install world-class flat roof materials such as TPO, EPDM, etc.
If you want to improve the roof of your business, contact us at (937) 902-2839, and we will be happy to answer all your questions.