Considering a flat roof for your residential or commercial building?
Flat roofs are a popular choice for urban environments, and when properly installed and maintained, can last for up to twenty-five years.
If you’re thinking about a new flat roof or looking for options for a new building, there are four main types of flat roofs that you’ll be able to choose from. Here’s what you should know about each.
Built-Up Roof
Built-up roofs (BUR) are traditional hot tar and gravel roofs. They are built by layering fiberglass membranes (or other waterproof materials), hot tar, and crushed stone or smooth gravel. While the built-up roof is one of the most cost-effective and attractive flat roof options, they are also extremely heavy.
Metal Flat-Seam Roof
Metal roofs are gaining popularity since they are available in many different stylish options. Metal roofs are no longer just for commercial buildings, they’re growing in popularity for residential houses as well. Metal flat-seam roofs are installed using sheets of metal such as steel, aluminum, or copper. The seams are then flattened down and soldered to help prevent leaks.
Modified Bitumen Roof
Modified Bitumen Roofs are a medium-cost roof, and are made with a single membrane of asphalt and polymer. A wear surface is applied on top, and can be either gravel, reflective paint, or a mineral surface. A light, reflective surface can help to reduce energy costs.
Rubber Membrane Roof
Rubber membrane flat roofs are made of a lightweight and relatively durable material that’s easy to install, and easy to patch. While the black material absorbs heat, this type of roofing can be covered in a light-colored coating to lower energy costs.
Wondering which roof is right for your building? At Essential Flat Roofing, we would be happy to run through your project with you, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
For more information on flat roof installation or repairs in Oakville, Ontario or the surrounding GTA including Burlington, Hamilton, Mississauga, and Toronto contact Essential Flat Roofing today.
Image: Mike Kniec