Essential Information About Flat Roofs


One roofing trend that's been gaining in popularity is the flat roof. Flat roofs themselves aren't particularly new — they've been used for decades to top commercial structures. However, the roofing style has become more popular for residential properties in recent years. Keep reading for what kind of flat room might work for your house.

Metal Roof

Metal roofing is the most straightforward. Contractors use large sheets of corrugated metal to create the roof. They also have smaller sheets at their disposal for irregular roof extensions. Aluminum is the most common metal used for roofing.

One of the main advantages of a metal roof is its durability. Metal roofing material, especially aluminum, is exceptionally durable. Metal roofs reflect infrared heat back out, so the area directly under the roof is easier to keep cool.

According to Home Tips, metal roofing is relatively easy to repair. Experienced do-it-yourselfers can conduct simple repairs such as loose nails or small leaks. However, the site recommends calling roofing experts for large-scale repairs because they'll have to replace the large sheets.

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is one of the most common materials for residential flat roofs. The contractors use rolls of the asphalt-based material, which also features a top coating of minerals similar to asphalt shingles. To adhere the material to your roof, they usually heat the bitumen with a torch while rolling it over the roof.  They also have peel-and-stick application options, too.

A big advantage of modified bitumen roofing is it's relatively quick and easy to install, no matter the method the roofers use. Additionally, this roofing material is affordable and durable. The mineral top coating also reflects heat well, which conveys those cooling effects.

A modified bitumen roof is exceptionally strong, so repairs are rare. However, the roofing can undergo mechanical damage from a falling tree branch or walking on the surface. If it develops a tear as a result, roofing contractors usually use a sealant to repair the hole.

Rubber Membrane

Rubber roofing consists of panels made of a single ply of membrane. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), which is made up of recycled materials, is the most common. Roofers can also choose from other single-ply membranes, such as PVC or neoprene. They install the roof by laying the panels and either fastening or gluing them in place.

Dark rubber does retain heat. This fact makes EPDM roofs ideal to lower heating costs. Some of the other single-ply membranes are manufactured to reflect heat, so they convey the same benefit of metal roofs. Rubber roofing is resistant to both scuffs and tears.

The most common damage with rubber roofing is a small hole or tear. The roofing is easy to repair. Contractors usually apply a primer to the surface before adhering a patch over the hole.

If you're looking into a new roof for your home — or even a new home altogether — a flat roof might be right for your design. For more information about the different types of roofing, reach out to a company such as Ray's Harford Home Improvement Contractors Inc.

About Me

The Life and Work of Roofers

Your home would not be a home without a roof. A good roof keeps the rain out, provides some insulation against sunlight, and does not easily become damaged when exposed to snow or ice. The roof was put in place by a roofer, who was probably one of the hardest-working people you'll ever meet. Who else can say they stand all day on a pitched surface and perform physical labor? Days as a roofer are long and hot, but we are all thankful for the work these professionals do. On this blog, you can learn more about roofers, their work, and their lives.

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