Flat Roof: Types with Pros and Cons
Flat roofs are a popular type of roofing on residential and commercial properties. While the name might suggest they are flat, flat roofs are not totally flat. Instead, they have some level of slope, though lower to steeply pitched roofs.
Flat roofs have a slope between ¼ and ½, which is very low to pitched roofs. With this, a flat roof holds water longer than a pitched roof, hence the differences in the construction method. While a sloped roof is installed so that the shingles overlap, flat roofs always have a continuous surface to keep them watertight.
Also, the materials used in flat roofs are good at holding water for some time.
However, there are three different types of flat roofs, each with different features.
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style jbsajbxkjbakx
Here are what to know about each flat roof type
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
This is the oldest type of flat roof and was common before the advent of membrane and bitumen. This type of flat roof consists of three major layers: bottom, intermediate, and top layers. Each of these layers is made up of different materials.
While the bottom layer consists of one or two insulation boards, the intermediate layer comprises different layers of roofing felt or tar, and the top layer is mainly gravel. This results in a thick roof, tough enough to withstand heavy wind and resist different damaging agents.
Built-up flat roofing is commonly found on commercial properties and is not usually recommended for residential structures. Its rejection in residential applications is linked to the strong odors it emits during installation and, most importantly, its thickness and heavyweight, which require a heavy structure to hold.
Pros:
BUR is thick and tough, offering a high resistance against damaging agents. It also costs very low to maintain, and the layers are easy to repair when damages occur. Plus, BUR can withstand decent foot traffic, thanks to the upper-layer gravel.
Cons:
Installing BUR takes time since it is done layer by layer. Also, the installation emits hazardous fumes, which is not healthy for the environment.
Another setback of BUR is locating leaks, involving dismantling the whole roof. This takes time and is expensive. Also, built-up roofing is prone to damage during cold temperatures.
Membrane (Single-Ply) Roofing
Membrane roofing materials are further of different types, but the most common is EPDM, which is commonly found on residential flat roofs. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber that has been used in other areas of human life, such as in lining ponds and playing ground areas.
Regardless of the material used, membrane roofing is a layer of insulation board. EPDM or other material is then laid on the board and tightened or loose-laid. When loose-laid, the EPDM membranes are held to the board with masonry pavers or river rock. Tightening methods include fastening and gluing.
Pros:
The major advantage of membrane roofing is the ease of repair. While homeowners can repair most damage themselves, the cost of repair is also low, even when trusted to a roofer. Also, since EPDM is lightweight, there is no need for reinforcing the roof deck. Plus, EPDM is less prone to leaks.
The insulation material in installing EPDM flat roofs is also a big advantage, as it serves as a means of insulation, ultimately lowing heating bills.
Cons:
The most challenging part of EPDM roofing is roof penetrations. Roof penetrations like chimneys, pipes, and HVAC systems are usually issues with EPDM installation. Hence, proper caution must be taken when carrying out these installations to prevent leaks.
More to the advantages of EPDM, membranes are susceptible to puncture when walked on, even during installation and repair. Other causes of puncture in EPDM include storm damage and falling branches.
Also, the seams between the membranes are likely to cause leaks in the future. Even when properly sealed, they easily give in to water penetration.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing was developed to eliminate the setbacks in BUR. With this, MBR comes without the issue of emitted hazardous fumes in BUR. Also, since BUR’s heavyweight is a major setback, MBR comes as a lighter option.
Modified bitumen roofing takes after traditional asphalt shingles as it comprises asphalt-based material and a mineral material coating.
MBR is sold out in rolls with a standard length of 36 feet and 3-feet width.
Pros:
The method of installation of MBR is easier than BUR, meaning it is easier to find a roofer for installing MBR. This also goes with the repairing MBR, meaning the repair cost is lower than BUR.
MBR has higher flexibility and elasticity, making them less prone to damage at low temperatures. Plus, MBR is durable and easy to maintain.
Cons:
The joints are prone to leaks, especially when not carefully installed. MBR is also not aesthetically appealing and doesn’t complement most property designs.
Why Contact Us
Our roofing contractors are the best in the business, providing a totally open, transparent and friendly service from start to finish. Hail storms are unpleasant enough on their own without damaging our homes. We know how we would want to be treated if we were looking for a hail damage roof service, and that’s how we treat our customers and how our contractors treat their work. Our service absolutely puts your needs at the heart of everything it does.
For hail damage roof repairs, whether structural or cosmetic, and hail damage insurance claims, we are the number one service in the area. Try out one of our free inspections, if your roof was damaged by hail and you’ve been unsure of what to do about the problem. It’s free, what do you have to lose? Having a hail damaged roof can weigh heavily on you, and our friendly service aims, first and foremost, to put your mind at ease. Knowing exactly what needs to be repaired, however much it might cost, is far better than not knowing at all. Our service is affordable and premium; you won’t find better hail damage roofing contractors for a better price in the area.
Conclusion
A flat roof is a popular roofing type on residential and commercial buildings, offering the benefit of choosing from different options. While you want to choose BUR for its toughness in resisting damaging agents, you want to consider membrane for its insulation property and modified bitumen for its flexibility and elasticity.
However, regardless of which metal roof type you choose for your project, it is equally important to choose your roofer wisely. While your roofing material is important in determining the integrity of your roof, your roofer’s professionalism also counts. Hence, ensure you hire an experienced roofing contractor.
Emery Construction is a reputable roofing contractor to consider for your roofing project. With decades of experience installing and repairing flat roofs, Emery Construction is a competent hand to trust your flat roof installation to.
Contact us today for your roof inspection and a free quote on your flat roof installation or repair.
