Flat Roof Roofing – Types of Flat Roofs
January 27th, 2012
If you own a home with a flat roof, you have several different types of flat roof roofing to choose from. The prices can vary depending on the region and the size of the roof. When properly installed, you can expect any of these roofs to last for 25 years, and most will come equipped with a ten to twenty year warranty as well. To get started with determining which type of roofing will be the best for your household needs, it’s a good idea to look at the pros and cons of these different options. The first type of roofing for flat roofs is a built-up roof. This is composed of tar and gravel, built up from plies of gravel alternated with hot tar.
Some of the advantages of this first type of flat roof roofing include the fact that gravel is fire retardant, and it is the cheapest of all the options. However, it can be inconvenient because the materials are extremely heavy. It can produce strong odours due to the tar when being installed, and it’s difficult to find any sources of leaks due to the thickness of the materials. Another option for flat roofs is the modified bitumen type of roofing. This type is composed of a single-ply roof covered with a mineral-based surface. Advantages of this type of material include the fact that it is an easy peel and stick installation system, which can be installed by homeowners without paying for professional assistance.
Other benefits to a modified bitumen type of roofing materials is that it can reflect heat, due to the light colour of its mineral surface, and it has a mid-range price. However, it can be prone to scuffs or tears. The best type of flat roof roofing in this regard is EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene monomer roofing. As a rubber material, it is extremely durable and can withstand possible damage through tears. EPDM can be installed with fasteners, glued down to the roof, or anchored with stone. The main advantage is that it is lightweight, yet resistant to damage. Leaks are also easy to find and patch up.
However, because EPDM flat roof roofing is occasionally black in colour, it can absorb heat. Light coloured coatings will add to the cost of this type of roofing, but are well worth it in any warm climates. These are just a few ways that different flat roofing types can vary from one another. It’s best to discuss all these options with a professional contractor to find the best fit.