Different Types of Flat Roof Material Options

Related Posts

How to Navigate Roofing Construction Projects for Commercial Buildings

Roofing construction on commercial buildings is a big task that requires the right approach, good planning, and clear communication. Whether it’s a new build or part of a major upgrade, these projects involve more than just putting materials on top of a structure....

Dealing With Hail-Damaged Shingles: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Spring storms can bring more than just heavy rain and strong winds—they can leave behind serious roof damage too. Hail, in particular, can tear into your shingles, leaving dents, cracks, and missing granules that you might not notice until it’s too late. What might...

Understanding the Benefits of Installing Solar Panels on Commercial Properties

More commercial property owners are turning to solar energy, and it’s easy to see why. Between yearly electric rate increases and growing concerns about sustainability, solar panels are taking center stage as a smart move for businesses. Whether you're running an...

Essential Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Roof

Your roof takes on a lot over the years—sun, wind, rain, and everything in between. Without a solid maintenance plan, even the best-installed roof can wear out faster than you'd expect. The good news is, a little bit of upkeep goes a long way. Regular care helps you...

Why You Should Hire Local Roofing Contractors for Your Residential Needs

Hiring the right roofer can make a big difference in how well your home stays protected over the years. While there are plenty of roofing companies to choose from, working with one that’s based right in your area can bring real benefits. Local roofing contractors...

How to Address Common Roofing Issues Promptly

Roofing issues are something that every homeowner might encounter at some point. Whether it's a small leak creeping in during a heavy rainstorm or a couple of shingles blowing off in a gusty wind, these problems can arise unexpectedly. The important thing to remember...

Why Is My Commercial Roof Ponding Water?

Imagine looking up at your commercial roof after a heavy rainfall only to see pools of water scattered across the surface. This scenario is more common than you might think, especially for flat or low-slope roofs commonly found on commercial structures. The term...

Solar Panel Shading Issues: Causes and Solutions

Solar panels have become a go-to solution for homeowners looking to harness clean energy and save on electricity bills. These panels, soaking up the sun's rays, convert them into usable power, which helps not only our wallets but also the planet. While the benefits...

Tips for Protecting Your Roof During a Storm

When you think of keeping your home safe during a storm, the roof might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, it's your roof that bears the brunt of stormy weather, shielding everything beneath it. Ensuring your roof can withstand severe conditions is key to...

How to Choose the Right Roofing Company for Your Needs

Choosing the right roofing company can feel like a big decision, and it plays a huge role in keeping your home secure and comfortable. A good roof protects everything inside, keeping you and your family safe from the weather. But with so many choices out there,...

Knowing the type of flat roofing material used on your building will not stop your leaks but it will help you make better decisions about maintenance, roof repair and/or replacing an old flat roof system.  It will also help you communicate and relate better to potential roofing contractors as you go through the interview process of hiring a roofing company for your project. Read on to know about different types of flat roof material options.

Common types of flat roofs

One of the most common reasons flat roofs are so common is because they are an economical roofing option for residential and industrial buildings. Flat roofs provide usable space to install solar panels, rooftop air conditioning units or verdant rooftop gardens.  Below, you will find information on different types of flat roofs. This will help you evaluate the pros and cons of each flat roofing material so that you can make an informed decision.

PVC

PVC roofing membranes are constructed from a continuous filament lattice called a scrim which is laminated with UV resistant PVC thermoplastic. PVC membranes are a modern and very effective roofing material. PVC roofing membranes offer an impressive set of advantages, unmatched by any other flat roofing material. Among the most notable benefits of PVC are strength, durability, resistance to wind, moisture, fire, and chemicals. Additionally, PVC roofs are consistently chosen by homeowners looking to install an Eco-friendly system over their flat roofs.

tdeutl10u37

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

u39mjt48too

Thermoplastic Polyolefin also known as TPO shares many of the positive characteristics of PVC roofing material. It is fabricated from polypropylene and ethyl propylene rubbers and typically white in color and. TPO is a perfectly flat, single piece of membrane and due to the white color of the roofing material, it is very good at reflecting the sun’s heat, reducing the amount of money required to cool buildings that use it. It can be either fully adhered or mechanically attached to the roof deck. TPO is ideal for the roofs that have odd shapes and objects, because it is extremely bendable and weldable without sacrificing durability. There is an added benefit of Thermoplastic Polyolefin that it is 100% fully recyclable!

Modified Bitumen Roof

Modified Bitumen is a flat roofing material that is constructed in layers, although the petroleum-based substance between the plies provides a rubberized appearance and properties.  One of the significant benefits of Modified Bitumen roofing is its ability to handle regular foot traffic. It is also relatively easy to install compared to BUR, as it typically does not require the use of heat. It is incredibly durable, but it is not reflective, so if you are seeking the most energy-efficient flat roofing material you should consider other systems.

54fewra85yl

Bur or Build Up Roofs

48pr061icq7

Built up roofs have been in use for many years. This traditional hot-tar-and-gravel roof is built from three or more plies of waterproof material alternated with hot tar and ballasted by a layer of smooth river stone. These roofs are installed using several layers of a special type of roofing felt that has been asphalt impregnated and embedded in bitumen applied with a hot mop. The hot-applied asphalt or coal tar pitch blends with the bitumen-soaked roof felt and creates a monolithic roof membrane. The roof felt/asphalt tar layering is repeated in overlapping layers until the assembly is two to four plies in thickness.

EPDM Rubber Roof

EPDM is a true rubber. The durable single ply membrane material resembles an inner tube, but it is engineered to resist damage from sunlight. This Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer can be mechanically anchored with fasteners, ballasted with stone, or glued.

zopt7duu8g7

James Kate Construction can help you install your ideal roofing system

So, how do you find the best possible flat roofing material that checks all the boxes on your list of “must-haves”? The best answer is to work with an experienced roofing contractor who takes the time to listen to your needs and collaborate with you.  Get in touch with James Kate Construction today to schedule your free initial roof inspection and discover how our skilled crews and legendary service will make all the difference in your roof.