Flat Roofing 101: Pros & Cons, Repairs & More!
Whether you’re in the market for a new roof or need help with your current flat roof, you’ll want to read on. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about flat roofing: what it is, types of flat roofs, the pros and cons, and common repairs. By the end of this article, you should have a good understanding of your flat roof and what to do if you run into issues.
Here are the steps we will explore in this piece:
- What is a Flat Roof?
- Types of Flat Roofing
- Pros of Flat Roofing
- Cons of a Flat Roof
- Common Repairs for Flat Roofs
- Have a Flat Roof and Need Help, What’s Next?
Let’s get started!
What is Flat Roofing?
Flat roofing may seem self-explanatory but there’s more than meets the eye. While flat roofs may appear to be completely flat when looking at them from the ground level, most of the time they are slightly pitched (5 to 15 degrees) so that water can drain off of them properly. In this guide, we will discuss the basics of flat roofing, including its types, materials used, and benefits.
Types of Flat Roofing:
When it comes to flat roofing materials, there are a few different types you can use. Below we’ll go over each one so that you have an understanding of what’s available.
Built-Up Roof (BUR) – BUR is the most common flat roofing system. It uses multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric to create a durable, waterproof surface. BUR systems are known for their long life spans and high level of fire resistance but can be prone to ponding water issues when not installed correctly. Asphalt built-up roofs tend to last 20 years or more if properly maintained periodically with gravel re-coating every year or two depending on sun exposure etc.
Modified Bitumen – Modified Bitumen consists of asphalt combined with polymers such as SBS (Styrene Butadiene Styrene) or APP (Atactic Polypropylene). This combination allows it to be applied in a variety of ways including cold adhesives, hot moppings, or torch down applications. These roofs typically last between 10 and 20 years with proper maintenance.
EPDM – Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is made of synthetic rubber usually black in color but also available in grey. It’s most commonly used for commercial roofing due to its lower cost and ease of installation. However, they can be prone to punctures if not properly installed so it’s recommended to look into other options before choosing this type of flat roofing material.
TPO/PVC – Thermoplastic Polyolefin / Polyvinyl Chloride are the newest types of materials for residential flat roofing systems. They’re both very similar with some slight differences between them like TPO sheets being seamed together while PVC seams are welded. They’re also non-flammable and have long life spans.
Metal Roofs – A metal roof can be installed on flat or low slope roofs and comes in many different materials such as copper, zinc steel aluminum. The main drawback is metal flat roofing materials tend to be hard and inflexible, making it more difficult for workers who aren’t used to working with it.
Pros of Flat Roofing:
Easy maintenance & access: A flat roof may be easier to maintain than a sloped roof as it is safer and easier to walk on and access. Keeping debris off the roof and performing regular inspections to ensure the seams and penetrations are in good order can be much simpler. This ease of access means that repairs and routine maintenance tasks can be carried out more efficiently and with less risk of injury.
Additional space: Flat roofs offer additional usable space that can be used for storage purposes or for mounting equipment like HVAC units. This extra space can be invaluable for both residential and commercial properties, providing flexibility in how the area above the building is utilized. Some people even use flat roofs as recreational spaces, creating rooftop gardens or patios.
Reflective surfaces: Flat roofs are often made with reflective materials that can help reduce your energy bill. These surfaces reflect more sunlight, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the building, which can significantly lower cooling costs during the hot summer months. This makes flat roofs an environmentally friendly option as well.
Aesthetics: Some flat roofs can be aesthetically pleasing and may not obstruct scenic views, which can be ideal in certain locations. Flat roofs can also be designed to blend seamlessly with modern architectural styles. There are even some “Green” flat roofs that have gardens, plants, and trees on them, creating a beautiful and environmentally sustainable space. These green roofs not only enhance the visual appeal but also offer benefits like improved air quality and natural insulation.
Cons of Flat Roofing:
Leaks: The main downside of a flat roof is that they are more prone to leaks since there are fewer places for the water to run off. This means that you’ll need to be vigilant in inspecting your roof regularly and performing necessary repairs to prevent any damage from occurring. Diagnosing the location of the cause of a leak is also difficult as water can travel very far in between the roof and the ceiling before it drips, misdirecting the location. Ensuring that the roof is properly sealed and maintained can help mitigate this issue, but it requires consistent attention and timely interventions.
Snow and ice: Flat roofs also tend to accumulate snow and ice more easily than sloped roofs, which can lead to dangerous conditions and even structural damage if not cleared promptly due to the weight. The flat surface can cause snow and ice to build up, leading to increased pressure on the roof structure. This accumulation can also create ice dams, which can prevent proper water drainage and exacerbate the risk of leaks. It’s crucial to remove snow and ice regularly and consider installing heating cables or other solutions to manage this challenge.
Heat loss: A final consideration when it comes to flat roofs is their propensity for heat loss. Since they have no slope, warm air tends to escape more easily through the roofing material, making them less energy-efficient than sloped roofs. This can lead to higher heating costs and less comfort during colder months. To combat this, investing in high-quality insulation and ensuring that the roofing materials are designed to minimize thermal transfer can be beneficial. Additionally, regular inspections to check for any insulation degradation or gaps are important to maintain energy efficiency.
Common Repairs for Flat Roofing:
There are a few common repairs that you may need to perform on your flat roof from time to time. Here are some of the most common:
Leak repair: Leaks are by far the most common problem with flat roofs and should be fixed as soon as they are noticed. If left untreated, leaks can cause extensive damage to both the roof itself and the building below.
Patching and sealing: Another common repair for flat roofs is patching and sealing any cracks or holes in the roofing material. This helps to prevent water from leaking through and causing further damage.
Recoating: Recoating is a method used to extend the life span of flat roofs. It involves applying a new layer of protective coating on top of the existing roofing material, which can help prevent leaks and increase durability. This should be done every few years to maintain the integrity of the roof.
Gutter cleaning: Flat roofs often have gutters attached to them to direct rainwater away from the structure. These gutters must be cleaned routinely to prevent them from clogging with debris which can cause water damage to the building below.
Have a Flat Roof and Need Help, What’s Next?
If you’re looking for a new roof, be sure to consider all of your options before making a decision. Flat roofs have many benefits but also some drawbacks that should be taken into account when weighing whether or not they are right for you.
If you have a flat roof and need help with repairs, don’t hesitate to book a FREE Roof Inspection today! We are experts in all things flat roofing and would be happy to assist you with whatever needs you may have.