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4 Different Types of Flat Roof Materials

Flat Roof
Flat roofs are the most cost-effective form of roofing. They provide excellent protection to your house or business against the elements while keeping the interior of the building dry and warm. Flat roofs have several advantages, but they also have a few drawbacks. As a result, understanding the type of flat roof material you will use when constructing your own home is critical. This will aid you in making better decisions regarding the maintenance and replacement of an existing flat roof system. It will also aid you in communicating and relating more effectively to potential roofing contractors while looking for the best roofing company for your project.

What is a Flat Roof?

Flat roofs are a type of roofing system that is mostly used in commercial and industrial buildings. These roofs are named as such because they have a flat surface, unlike the pitched roofs found in most residential homes. Though flat roofs are not exactly flat but have a very small pitch of 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch per foot, just enough slope to drain water yet flat enough to be a problem if not built correctly. There are several advantages to having a flat roof, which is why they have become so popular in recent years.

Let’s look at the top four materials for a flat roof replacement.

1. EPDM membrane roofing

EPDM Flat Roof

The EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber black membrane that’s commonly used in low-slope flat roofs, commercial and medical settings. While EPDM is primarily used in commercial applications, it does have a role in residential roofing.

Because of the black material, we wouldn’t suggest placing it in a bedroom or living area because of the heat it will absorb. EPDM is an excellent choice for a flat roof over a garage or any other non-living space that you may view from a window since the black won’t get as filthy as a white membrane.

EPDM is extremely long-lasting and almost as bulletproof as rubber. Because of its toughness, an EPDM flat roof with a 0.060 thickness will last you approximately 25 to 30 years.

2. PVC membrane roofing

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flat roofing membranes are considered to be one of the best single-ply roofing materials in the market. It is a single-ply white membrane used in commercial and residential roofing. The material is manufactured from refined petroleum or a natural gas and salt combination. It comes on large rolls with a bottom ply, flexible fiberglass mat, weathering film, and acrylic sheen. PVC is also an excellent choice for any flat or low slope over a living area or bedroom.

A Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing offers a high fire resistance rating, as well as welded seams that enhance wind uplift protection. PVC membranes are a wise choice if your area experiences strong winds frequently. It can endure 2-inch hail created with ice and metal in tests.

PVC lasts 20 to 30 years on a flat roof and requires little upkeep if installed correctly.

3. TPO membrane roofing

TPO is a low-slope roofing material that is single-ply and lightweight, yet it withstands time well. It weighs half a pound per square foot, making it a great option for older buildings unable to handle the stress and strain of a built-up roof.

Unlike EPDM, TPO’s (TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) white membrane reflects heat instead of absorbing it. A thermoplastic roofing membrane is a more long-lasting roofing system than a rubber membrane roof. It comes in a variety of colors will mostly white or grey.

The white color of TPO roof coatings allows them to reflect heat and keep surface temperatures lower than those on a dark roof. Air conditioning is a significant cost for commercial structures. This makes TPO an excellent choice for building operators and owners who are concerned with their long-term financial situation.

This is an excellent choice for constructing large buildings, such as industrial and social facilities like business workshops, administration buildings, recreational centers, sports facilities, hotels, cafés, and restaurants.

4. Standing seam metal roof

A standing seam metal roof system is a set of metal panels that are joined together at the seams or welded together by a machine. When the metal sections expand and compress, the panels may move freely.

A flat roof with a standing seam metal roof is an excellent choice. It will provide a more attractive appearance and provides a wider range of color options than the membrane roof systems.

If your standing seam metal flat roof is properly installed and adequately ventilated, it should last at least 30 years. A standing seam metal flat roof can survive for up to 50 years if maintained correctly.

However, the additional life and attractiveness come at a higher cost, and it will be more expensive than all three types of roofing materials.

Hire the Best Roofing Contractor for your Flat Roof Replacement

If you need a new roof and are considering a flat roof replacement, it is important to hire the best roofing contractor for the job. Flat roofs can be more challenging and expensive to install than traditional sloped roofs, so it is important to choose a contractor who knows what they’re doing. At Near Me Roofing, we have years of experience installing flat roofs in a variety of applications. We offer metal, shingle, tile, and flat roofing services for both commercial and residential properties.

The Near Me Roofing team is dedicated to providing each customer with a roof that they can enjoy for years. We offer solutions designed specifically for your needs and we take pride in our workmanship, so you know it will last. If you’re ready to start the process of getting a new reliable flat roof installed on your home or business. Contact us today for a free consultation!

Near Me Roofing Company

15411 1st Ave Ct S Suite c109, Tacoma, WA 98444, USA

(253) 238-0256

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