The purpose of a commercial roof is to ensure the building’s waterproof integrity, regardless of the material used. There are several different types of flat or low slope commercial roofing solutions available today. Commercial roofing has more requirements when it comes to procedures and maintenance than residential roofing. A flat roof option is ideal in the sense that flat roof repair is more affordable and widely available. The reasons why commercial roofing is more often than not constructed level, rather than steeply sloped, are detailed in the blog that follows.
Initial Construction Costs
Commercial roofing overall, is not something that can be described as cheap. When installing a steeply sloped roof however, these costs can shoot through the roof. A steeply sloped roof has many disadvantages when considering it for a commercial property. The amount of material that will be required for the construction can be staggering. Not to mention the roof assembly and height it will need to reach to cover a large commercial property. The roof may require peaks and other irregularities, which will only add up to more costs. It’s not just the installation that needs consideration, but also the maintenance requirements in the long run. The roof repairs will be more difficult and costly compared to for instance a flat roof repair.
Solar Energy Options
The installation of solar panels will be made much easier when installed on a flat roof construction. Many property owners today are looking at solar energy for increased sustainable and low-cost energy solutions. Keep in mind that flat roofing is not always entirely flat, as the design needs to allow for proper drainage. Heavy rooftop equipment may cause alterations in certain locations, which flat roof repair specialists can maintain.
Flat Roofing or Low Slope Roofing Options
For property owners looking at installing a flat or low slope commercial roofing solution, there are a variety of options available. We have listed some of these options below.
BUR System
This involves a commercial roofing company installing a built-up roofing system, also known as a BUR system. This type of roofing is constructed from felt or synthetic fiber that has been melted with coal tar and is finished with a layer of pea gravel for protection. This is an older technology, still used by flat roofers today as it makes flat roof repair so much easier.
Thermoset Membrane Roofing
This type of roofing is made from flexible materials and is frequently referred to as EPDM in the roofing trade. This roofing option is chemically set with the use of adhesives, by commercial roofing contractors. You will find that this type of roofing is generally black.
Flat Roofing Options
Flat roofing solutions are not only widely used for commercial building, but also for some residential properties. Homeowners usually have a choice between three roofing options when deciding to go with a flat roof for their home. It’s important to make sure that you choose the right option that is most suitable for your home, to reduce the need for maintenance in the long run. You do not want to end up with numerous flat roof repair jobs, nor having to undergo a flat roof replacement after only a short time.
Choose flat roofing that is both durable and will complement your home’s aesthetic. Another aspect you want to pay considerable attention to is energy efficiency. Choose the roofing type that can best help you save on your energy costs and at the same time be kinder to the environment. Although there are not many choices when it comes to flat roofing systems, it’s good to know the key differences between them before you go ahead with installing and insulating a flat roof.
Rubber Membrane Roof
A rubber membrane roof, also known as EPDM, is a common and easy to spot flat roofing option. It consists of a single-ply membrane and is known for its high UV resistance. This type of roof is very easy to install and is lightweight. Flat roof construction companies all agree that when it comes to flat roof repair work, the rubber membrane roofing system is the easiest to work with. There are two main methods of installation. Either it is adhered (glued down), or it is ballasted down with gravel or river stones. Ballasted down rubber membrane roofs are generally white or black in color and tightly stretched over an insulating board. More rocks cover the roof when compared to a built-up roof and these are not adhered to the roof with tar.
Built-up Roof
A built-up roof is primarily made up out of tar and gravel. It is a roofing system that has come a long way and is a tried and tested roofing method. The name is descriptive of the process as this roofing system consists of four layers that are built up to form a protective commercial roofing system. Before the last layer of gravel is added, flat roofers apply the four layers of roofing material and hot tar. The tar is heated in a boiler on site before it is applied to the roof. Once all the layers are in place, the roof is covered with pea gravel. The benefit of tar is that it will protect your property from harmful UV rays. This roofing system, if maintained properly, will most likely not require any flat roof repair in the foreseeable future.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Similar to a built-up roof, this is primarily made of asphalt roll. It consists of two layers, which is a cap and a base sheet. Mounting of this roofing type can be done in four different ways. Either through heat, with blistering tar, or cold, with a primary solvent. The other two options are heat welding, with an open flame, or through adhesives.
Choosing The Best Commercial Roofing Option
You understandably want to choose the best commercial roofing option for your property. However, it’s not only the best material that you require, but also a professional and expertly carried out installation. Don’t just search commercial roofers near me and choose the first option. Make sure to work only with experienced and professional commercial roofing contractors for long lasting results. All Roofs Inc. has the relevant flat roofing experience and knowledge that you can rely on. Contact us today for further information regarding our products and services or to schedule an onsite consultation.
