Roofing Materials For Flat Roofs Can Vary
Flat roofs are exactly what they sound like, flat as a pancake, and are often found on commercial or industrial buildings. They don’t have the slope of roofs that you’d typically find on houses and homes, they are basically horizontal. Because of their inclination, or lack thereof, they are made of different materials than you’d find on most sloping roofs—they don’t require shingles or other familiar roofing materials, and instead are made of entirely different products.
What Are The Best Roofing Materials For A Flat Roof?
If you are looking to replace or build a flat roof, you might be wondering, then, what’s the best roofing material for a flat roof? Well, there are several options, and each has positive and negative traits for consideration.
Built-Up Roofs (BUR) — also commonly referred to as tar and gravel roofs. They are usually made of alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics. A benefit to this kind of roof is that the layers cause it to be insulating. It is generally an inexpensive option, however costs can rise as the roof can be heavy and there may need to be some reinforcing done. Built-up roofs are, however, aesthetically pleasing and provide a nice clean look to the roof.
Modified Bitumen — unlike BUR, which consists of layers, modified bitumen roofs are single ply, or just one layer, that is rolled onto the roof’s surface. As the technology has evolved, it has grown safer to apply modified bitumen roofs. In the past, it would have been applied with a blowtorch whereas now, the roofing material is usually a peel and stick application, so it is a relatively simple and safe option. Another benefit to modified bitumen roofs is that they reflect the sunlight and cut down on energy costs, however, they are prone to tearing and getting worn out if there is much foot traffic once applied.
Spray Applied Roof Coating — the latest in roofing technology, these silicon roofing systems have many benefits. They are durable, reflective and lightweight, but the biggest benefit of all is that the coating is applied without any seams. This means that there are fewer chances of leaks occurring, which cuts down on maintenance. Spray applied roof coating is, however, one of the more expensive options on the market, which is a reflection of its quality.
Unsure About What Roofing Material Is Right For Your Roof?
Like all roofs and no matter the material, flat roofs need regular maintenance and care. Depending on where you live—a dry climate versus a wet one, for example—you will have to decide on what the best options are for you if you are looking to replace or repair your roof. At the end of the day, an investment in quality products now will save you money in the future. If you have any questions about which roofing system is right for your building, give us a call at Taves Roofing and we’d be happy to help you in deciding what is right for you.