Flat roofs are a versatile and practical choice for both commercial and residential buildings, offering durability, space efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional sloped roofs, flat roofs provide additional room for HVAC systems, solar panels, or even rooftop offices, making them ideal for maximizing usable space.
With a slight pitch for effective water drainage, they are designed to withstand heavy loads and harsh weather conditions. However, choosing the right flat roofing material is crucial, as each type—such as modified bitumen, TPO, or EPDM—has unique benefits and challenges.
This guide explores the top three flat roofing types at Flat Roofs by Pegram, their pros and cons, and how to select the best option for your property’s needs.
What is Flat Roofing, and Where Is It Installed?
Flat roofs are installed on larger or smaller buildings for longevity and to bear more loads of HVAC systems. They are installed at a slight pitch for weather drainage.
Advantages of flat roofs are that they provide more room for HVAC systems, offices, and solar installations. As well, they have disadvantages like drainage problems, withholding of snow for a longer duration, and are not as attractive.
| Commercial Flat Roofing Flat roofs are mostly installed on commercial buildings like warehouses, shopping malls, factories, and apartments. They are known for their durability and longevity. | Residential Flat Roofs In residential buildings or homes, flat roofs can be installed on garages, sheds, and porches. These roofs enhance the space for usability. |
Best Three Types of Flat Roofing — Pros and Cons
Do you know what the best three types of flat roofing are? What are their benefits and disadvantages? If you don’t know, no problem. Here is the complete and right guide for you.
The following are the 3 best types of flat roofing with their advantages and disadvantages:
Modified Bitumen Roofing (MBR)
Modified Bitumen Roofing material is made of asphalt, with certain chemicals to enhance its performance. It’s durable and has a longer lifespan than asphalt shingles, and is stronger and more flexible than other materials.
These roofs consist of three layers: a base sheet, one or two layers of ply sheets, and a cap sheet. Its installation process is easy, as it provides the head to its backside when unrolled, it will get stuck on the base sheet.
Pros
- Consistent installation due to factory-applied mineral surfacing.
- Much simpler to install and saves labor costs and time.
- Provides better elasticity in low temperatures.
- High durability due to low maintenance.
- Can be installed with DIY with little care.
- Its material can be recycled.
Cons
- An open flame or a torch is required to install it. So, it requires more safety measures.
- The overlapping of joints must be considered to prevent leaks.
- Less attractive than other materials.
TPO Roofing Systems
Among the flat roof materials, thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a popular single-ply roofing system. It installs on flat or low-slope roofs. Its materials are a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene.
Its installation process involves rolling out membranes, securing them to the roof, and welding the junctures.
Pros
- TPO flat roofs are highly energy efficient due to their reflective nature. They absorb less heat.
- It is highly resistant to punctures, wear and tear, and dirt buildup.
- It is more cost-effective than other roofing systems.
- Easy and faster to install.
Cons
- Not suitable for areas with high temperatures and extreme heat.
- Variation in quality due to multiple manufacturers.
- Susceptible to certain chemicals that can cause damage.
EPDM Roofing
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene polymer) roofing is the most popular single-ply roofing material among all of the flat roof materials. It is highly resistant to damage and heat.
It is lightweight and easy to repair. It is available in large sheets, which makes its installation easy and minimizes the chances of drainage through seams. It is available in black and white.
Pros
- Lightweight material with no need for other material support.
- Highly resistant to tears, punctures, and scuffs.
- Easy flat roof repair option in case of any damage.
- If properly maintained, it gives a longer lifespan.
- Suitable for DIY installation.
Cons
- Black material absorbs more heat as compared to other materials.
- More expensive than other materials.
- Requires more care because it can be punctured by sharp objects.
Conclusion
To sum up, flat roofing is the best option to enhance the durability and longevity of your commercial or residential roofs. Multiple materials regarding flat roofs are available in the market. Always choose the right material according to your roofing needs and the area weather. Ensure to have flat roof insulation before the installation of actual roofing material, which will minimize the chances of drainage from seams.
FAQs
1: What is flat roofing?
Flat roofing is installing flat roof materials on low-pitch roofs, like commercial buildings and home garages.
2: What is the best residential flat roof option?
EPDM and PVC are the best residential flat roof options due to their cost-effectiveness, durability, and waterproofing.
3: What can be the best flat roof drainage solutions?
Scuppers, interior drains, and siphonic systems are the most effective solutions to handle the flat roof drainage.
4: What are the best types of flat roofing materials for commercial buildings?
EPDM, TPO, and modified bitumen roofings are the best options for commercial buildings due to their durability.
5: What are the advantages of a flat roof?
Flat roof provides more room for HVAC systems and solar installation and has lower construction costs.
