Flat roofing is most often seen in commercial environments such as warehouses, but that is not to say it can’t be used effectively for your garage, workshop or even your home. As with any roof, regular maintenance is required, and roofing experts should always be called to advise you on the best roofing material to use, relative to your individual circumstances.
Flat Roof vs. Pitched Roof
Why don’t we see more flat roof structures?
Well, bear in mind that for the best roofing, your structure need not be either entirely flat or pitched roof, but can contain a mix of the two, resulting in a unique design that will reflect flair and innovation.
Flat Roofs Are Cheaper to Install
The design of a flat roof is simpler which translates into being cheaper and quicker to install as less material is required. A flat roof structure potentially offers more usable internal storage space, as there are no awkward angles that need to be negotiated as with a pitched roof attic space.
More Opportunities to Be Creative
An innovative addition to a flat roof is the installation of a rooftop garden. Anyone with a ‘green thumb’ would be able to turn a featureless area into a beautiful colorful garden or even grow vegetables. In a commercial environment, a transformed rooftop area could be utilized as a green space for workers to enjoy during their breaks. The potential for positive environmental impact is enormous!
Flat Roofs Don’t Last as Long
The downside to a flat roof is that rainwater can pool more easily. Unless a proper roof drainage system is also installed, there is nowhere for the run-off water to escape. Liquid has the uncanny ability to find an outlet, and accumulated water on your flat roof will find any weak spot which could result in costly leak repairs.
Flat roofs do not have the longevity of pitched roofs, generally only lasting up to 12 years. Flat roofs are more susceptible to wind and storm damage, as well as unwanted weeds or plant growth that may take root.
What is the Best Roofing Material for a Flat Roof?
There is a variety of materials on the market that can be used in flat roof installations. Professional roofers such as AABCO Roofing use three methods for commercial flat top roofing.
Asphalt-Based Bitumen
One option is a composite asphalt-based bitumen that is simply unrolled and installed in a single, self-adhesive layer, and which is available in a variety of colors. Comprising three layers, this material is durable, weather-resistant and waterproof, making it one of the best roofing options during Florida’s hurricane season.
BUR Roofing
Another method is to install BUR (Built-Up Roofing) which comprises multi-layer bonded materials. It is effective for temperature control and is environmentally friendly with its energy efficient properties making it highly cost-effective. The product is also resistant to water, fire and wind.
TPO Roofing
Thirdly, TPO ((Thermoplastic Polyolefin) may be used, which comprises a single layer of laminated synthetic material which is UV, ozone, and chemical resistant. This makes it an ideal solution for companies which store hazardous materials.
Additional options for flat roofing materials include PVC and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer), a synthetic rubber membrane.
Find The Best Roofing Solution with AABCO Roofing: A Few Final Tips
Before having any work performed on your roof, always make sure that it’s adequately covered by insurance. Some companies may deny liability if they deem that pre-existing issues were not disclosed, including prior damage or inadequate roof maintenance. Next, before moving into a new home or warehouse, ensure that the roof is inspected for any contemporary issues. One way to prove that your roof was in good condition before any claim is submitted is to have a roof inspector take photographs from numerous angles. Have them date-stamp these for ease of reference. Make sure that any roof damage is repaired as soon as possible. This is not only to prevent any future insurance claim being rejected, but also to protect you against other structural issues caused by water or wind damage.
Finally, remember that even on a flat roof, no repairs or inspections should be undertaken by anyone other than trained roofing professionals to avoid any accidents. If you’re thinking about installing a flat roof and are looking at all the best roofing options, contact AABCO Roofing today at 1-954-426-8500.
