All You Need to Know About Flat Roofs
There are numerous options when installing a new roof, and flat roofing is one of the most attractive. They can usually be found on commercial buildings, but many homeowners install them on their private properties. Flat roofing also offers various advantages, such as affordability and low maintenance.
What are flat roofs?
Despite what the name suggests, flat roofs aren’t completely flat. They’re commonly known as low-slope roofing because they need to have some slope to drain water.
Flat roofs consist of three essential components:
Weatherproofing layers – Weatherproofing components keep water from penetrating the roof assembly.
Reinforcement – This part adds puncture resistance, dimensional stability, and strength to the membrane.
Surfacing – The surfacing element shields the reinforcement and waterproofing from weather and sunlight. Some products offer other benefits, such as improved hail resistance, solar reflectivity, and fire resistance.
What are the types of flat roofing?
Membrane roofs
Various materials, such as plastic and rubber formulations, are used for membrane roofs. The most popular solution used for residential constructions is EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). It’s a synthetic sheet material that serves as a pond liner.
EPDM membranes can be supported with ballast, like masonry pavers and river rock. They can also be glued or fastened to the insulation.
Built-up roofing (BUR)
BUR was the most prevalent flat roofing solution before membrane roofs, and modified bitumen were developed. BUR comprises several layers to form a rugged assembly resistant to significant damage.
Modified bitumen roofing
Modified bitumen roofing is an asphalt-based material featuring a mineral coating. It comes with rolled sheets that cover the base sheet membrane.
The advantage of flat roofing
Saving money
The greatest benefit of flat roofs is their cost-efficiency. The materials for the installation are fairly inexpensive. For instance, the insulation board costs about 80 cents per foot.
Additionally, flat roofs don’t damage as easily, resulting in fewer repairs during their lifespan. Mounting other components, such as solar panels and satellite dishes, is also more straightforward. Cleaning the gutters is that much easier, allowing you to save even more money.
Ample space
Another reason why flat roofs are popular is that they leave plenty of space for many other purposes. For example, AC units can be placed on the roof instead of the ground. Furthermore, solar racking mounted on flat roofing is less noticeable than on sloped roofs.
Greater versatility
Flat roofs also make interior areas more versatile. Finished attics and top-floor apartments are just some possibilities without sloped walls getting in the way. Therefore, homes that require maximized interior space have a lot to gain from flat roofing.
Overall, flat roofs provide several boons to the homeowner. To figure out if they’re the right fit for your house, contact a roofing specialist.
