Flat roofing
Flat roofs are one of the most durable and affordable products on the market. They are generally easy to install and require less material. Flat roofs are used in both residential and commercial applications, and have a variety of benefits.
Benefits of Flat Roofs
Lower Cost on Both Materials and Labor
Flat roofs require less support structure than a standard sloped roof does, so they require less material comparatively. Also, they are relatively quick and easy to install, so they require less labor.
Lower Cost on Maintenance and Repairs
Flat roof systems are simpler and have less complications, leading to less maintenance and repair. When the time comes to make repairs, the roof allows for easier access.
Extra Space
With the proper planning and structure, you can use the extra space on your roof for a variety of purposes, such as placement of the HVAC or other systems, installation of solar panels, a rooftop terrace or garden.
Modern Flat Roof Materials for Commercial Applications
The old torchdown type of roof is no longer the only choice for your commercial building. Technology has provided us with newer, better options including the following:
Modified Bitumen
Mod Bit is designed to withstand harsh exposure and extreme weather conditions and is usually the least expensive flat roof option for commercial properties.
The Modified Bitumen material is asphalt based with five layers of protection, which helps to keep it tear-resistant and waterproof. It can also be energy efficient as you can treat the top layer to add ‘cool roof.’ It is also easy to repair and to maintain.
All these benefits make Modified Bitumen one of the most reliable flat roofing materials available.
Thermoplastic (TPO) Roofing
TPO is a popular choice for commercial flat roofs because it is made of a durable, lightweight and flexible membrane. It is a relatively inexpensive option with a good lifespan of 10 to 20 years.
These roofs are white and reflective, which will help reduce your energy consumption. Also, the fact that these seams are heat welded upon installation leads to fewer leaks and lower maintenance. Unlike some other materials with seams, TPO can be reheated, which allows separated seams to be repaired, instead of having to replace sections of roof.
Synthetic Rubber (EPDM - Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer)
EPDM is also suitable for our extreme Seattle area weather conditions. It has the longest lasting service life for flat roofing materials, with a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
The sun’s rays will not damage this material, however it is dark, and will absorb the energy of the sun, creating more heat on hot summer days.
EPDM is also lightweight, which is an advantage, but it will also require you to create extra layers of material for walk paths for use when anyone has needs to access the roof.
PVC Roofing
PVC Roofing is frequently our preferred choice for commercial flat roofs. It is a little more expensive than other single-ply membranes, and it has plenty of benefits.
The reinforced membrane makes this material low maintenance and resistant to impact damage and cracking. Your roof is likely to house other mechanical systems for your building, so the combination of these extra items and the pedestrian traffic to access them adds wear and tear to the roof. PVC Roofing material is durable and able to withstand the extra pressure and traffic.
PVC Roofing material is also white and reflective, which will help lower your utility bills as it reflects much of the sun’s heat.
