Generally, when you think of “roof,” you picture pitched roofs with steep slopes. Although it might not be the first roofing design that comes to mind, a flat roof is a good choice with many advantages. Additionally, there are various kinds of flat roofs available.
Flat roofs are affordable, low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and simple to install. In addition to being employed in many modern-style homes, they are frequently found on commercial structures. Every flat roof type has pros and cons as well as a distinct style. A rubber roof may be more affordable for people on a tight budget, but those who value the outdoors may favor a green roof.
Types of Flat Roof
A Flat Roof: What Is It?
A flat roof is thought by some to be perfectly flat and angle-free. This is untrue. A low-slope roof slanted less than 10 degrees is called a flat roof. The small inclination of flat roofs is intended to aid in drainage. Ponding water on a flat roof would be an issue if the roof were totally level. Leaks and roofing damage result from standing water on a roof.
Constructed Roofs (BUR)
Known by its other name, built-up roofing (BUR) is a type of conventional flat roofing material made composed of felt or fiberglass mats sandwiched between many layers of asphalt. These layers are put alternately, and then either a gravel layer or a reflective coating is applied on top. With the right care, BUR is a reasonably priced, long-lasting solution that can last up to 30 years. It may, however, release hazardous fumes during installation and needs to be installed by an expert.
Concrete Roofs
In order to create a flat surface, concrete is poured into molds placed on the rooftop during the installation process. Unlike most other forms of flat roofs, it is seam-free, so that water cannot leak through any weak spots on the open field area of the roof. Concrete roofs can endure for up to 50 years and are incredibly resilient. Because of its extreme durability, it can survive fire, severe hail, decay, insect damage, and strong winds. Concrete roofing has the disadvantage of absorbing moisture right away after installation because of its porous nature. This moisture will become trapped inside the roof material and may cause issues when it comes time to coat or replace the roof.
TPO Roofs
A single-ply roofing membrane called thermoplastic olefin (TPO) is composed of a combination of plastic and rubber components. It is strong, long-lasting, and impervious to chemicals, UV radiation, and punctures. TPO roofing has a 30-year lifespan and is simple to install and maintain. Regretfully, foot traffic or debris may cause tears and punctures in it. All varieties of single-ply roofing frequently sustain punctures due to stepping on debris or hardware (such as nails or screws), which leaves tiny holes in the roof through which water might leak.
EPDM Roofs
Synthetic rubber is used to make the single-ply roofing membrane known as ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM. It is robust, resistant to weather, and temperature-tolerant. Installing and maintaining EPDM roofing is simple, and it has a 50-year lifespan. The flexibility of rubber can lead to shrinkage and tenting, which can result in leaks and damage. This is the drawback.
Vinyl/Plastic Roofs
Synthetic plastic is used to create the single-ply roofing membrane known as polyvinyl chloride, or PVC roofing. It is strong, resistant to fire, chemicals, and UV radiation. PVC roofing may endure up to 30 years and is simple to install and maintain. To stop leaks, it needs to be inspected frequently because it could be prone to punctures.
Metal Roofs
Even though it’s not “flat” per se, metal roofing is categorized as “low slope” because of its usual 2:12 slope. A continuous metal surface is created by seaming a system of metal components together. Metal roofs are renowned for their resilience, lifespan, and energy economy. They can be made of many various metals, but typical ones include aluminum, copper, zinc, and steel (galvanized, galvalume, or factory-coated). Metal roofs are low maintenance and can endure up to 50 years, although they should be periodically checked for rust, which can accumulate in some areas.
Eco-Friendly Roofs
A single-ply (TPO, PVC, or EPDM), BUR, or Mod Bit roof can be covered with plants, soil, and drainage layers to form a living roof surface. This style of flat roofing is known as green roofing. In addition to providing insulation and lowering stormwater runoff, green roofing also enhances air quality. The problem is that not all climates or buildings can use it, and it needs specialist installation and upkeep.
Which color works best on a flat roof?
Depending on your taste, several colors work well for flat roofs. White or light-colored roofs, on the other hand, reflect sunlight, keeping your home cooler, and making them more economical and environmentally beneficial. However, dark or black roofs absorb solar heat, which raises the temperature of your home and roof. As a result, your energy expenses will go up.
Conclusion:
There are various flat roof types you can choose from! Your budget, the climate where your structure is located, and the purpose of the building all play a role in selecting the best flat roofing type. TPO, EPDM, and PVC roofing offer greater durability and resistance to weather and chemicals, while built-up and modified bitumen roofing are conventional and reasonably priced solutions. Although it needs professional installation and upkeep, green roofing is an appealing and environmentally friendly choice. To assess your roofing requirements and suggest the ideal material for your flat roof, you must speak with a roofing specialist.