Flat roofs are most typically found in locations with little or no rain, although they are found in other parts of the country too. While they are a cost-effective selection from a building point of view, they can be a problem when it comes water leakage and accumulation. In order to preserve flat roofs, and the homes underneath them, they need to be covered with a good water-proof material, and be furnished with a great drainage system. Below are a few of the most popular flat roof styles, along with a few advantages and disadvantages.
Developed Roofing
Developed roof repair, also known as Built up roof repair, is a generic term for a roof system that is actually built by adding layers. Built up roof repairs are frequently made from rotating layers of roof felt with different waterproofing products, consisting of coal tar pitch, asphalt, cold application adhesive, and modified asphalt. It is also called “tar and gravel” roof, since it’s rounded off with a final layer of gravel, crushed rock, or other mineral substance, in order to reduce sun damage.
The other popular built up roof style is a modified bitumen roofing (MBR). MBR’s are made from fiberglass-based asphalt sheeting, applied in layers with mopped-on hot bitumen between each.
Built-up roof repair is more frequently found on commercial structures than on residential homes, but it’s still well fit for residences with flat roofs. While built-up roof is the most affordable selection of flat roofing, sunlight will ultimately break down the asphalt base and the roofing will certainly need to be changed more quickly than other types of roofs.
Single-Ply Roofs.
Single-ply roofing systems are the most reliable, popular, and practical, flat roofing solutions in the marketplace. There are two main types:
- Thermoset membranes are made from rubber polymers, and need the use of liquid adhesive or tape to form a water tight seal at the overlaps.
- Thermoplastic membranes, made from plastic polymers, have joints formed with heat or chemical welding. Most thermoplastic membranes include a support layer of polyester or fiberglass for increased strength and stability, also.
Either way, these single ply roofing products, more frequently referred to as rubber, or plastic, roof repair membranes, are probably the best option if you have to repair a flat roof. They’ll cost a little bit more than built up roof products to repair, but they will last a lot longer with far fewer issues. Any extra preliminary expenses are well worth it in the long run.
Sprayed Polyurethane Foam (SPF).
Sprayed polyurethane foam is a relatively new product that is sprayed onto the roof as a liquid in order to form a single, continuous, smooth structure. Since foam is flexible and lightweight, it’s perfect for irregularly shaped roofs and protrusions. For re-roofing, SPF likewise gets rid of the need to remove the old roofing, since it can be used straight over existing roof installations. SPF consists of asphalt shingles, built-up roofing’s, clay tile, concrete, metal, and wood. Foam roofs are simple to keep, and with a high insulation value, they can battle a few of the heat issues typical with flat roofs. The only drawback is SPF’s performance history. It just does not have much of one yet, so you’re taking a bit of a risk by going with this product.
Employ an Experienced Roofer.
Unfortunately, flat roof repair is never a DIY task. You’ll need to employ a seasoned roofer to apply any of the above pointed out roof repair options. If you’re in need of flat roof repair services, you should call a professional about getting your roof repair task underway.