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More Slope Than Flat

Flat roof systems are more low-slope than completely flat. They have just enough slope to make water move toward gutter and drains to keep it from ponding on the roof. There are several options for a flat roof available when you’re deciding on whether to replace your roof.

What we feel is the best solution, sprayed-on polyurethane foam, should be used more than it is and pushed more by roofers in the industry. There are several options if you’ve decided to replace your flat roof.

Here Are 5 Options for a Flat Roof

Modified Bitumen

This material is rolled on top of your roof’s surface in a single ply. Most previous installations were completed by placing it on the roof and then using a blowtorch to heat it. This poses some risks, so newer materials have been created that stick to the roof after they are peeled off, making it safer. It’s good for the environment due to its ability to reflect the heat and rays from the sun, which will lower your cooling expenses. However, it does have a major negative feature – walking on it can tear the material and cause scuffing.

Built Up Roofing (BUR)

This material is very affordable, which entices homeowners to use it often as everyone likes to save money. It has a nice, attractive look which usually has gravel on top covering the material. Its constructed of several layers, so it provides more than adequate insulation for your home. But, due to these multiple layers, it weighs more tan other flat systems,. which means you may have to make some structural additions to your framing or structure in order to support it, meaning you’ll have additional expense when choosing to install it. One other drawback is you should not be occupying the property while its being installed, interrupting your families routine and schedule. There is plenty of info to be found online regarding BUR roofing if you need it.

Sprayed-on Roof Coatings

Silicone is the material most often used for sprayed-on applications. And, because its sprayed onto the roof, it is seamless, making it work great in resisting moisture and deflecting the heat from the sun. Since it reflects the sun’s heat and rays, it lowers your utility costs, saving you money. Another big benefit is its contribution to the environment because its applied directly on top of the old system. No need for the occupants to be removed during installation and no need to tear off the old roofing and dispose of it before its applied. There are a few negatives, though – the biggest one being its price, as its more expensive than the other flat options. However, that should be expected from something of high quality with so many positives. Depending on your roof’s configuration and your location, silicone roofing will usually be the most expensive option to choose from.

Single Ply EPDM

It’s similar to PVC, because of its single ply, but the main material is not plastic, but rubber. Its extremely durable, but it has a few drawbacks. Adhesives are used to close the seams, which can make them vulnerable to the elements over time, letting moisture get through and causing maintenance and repair issues. Asa result, you will have to pay more attention to routine maintenance and minor repairs than some of your other options.

PVC

This material is very reflective and durable.  It is extremely water resistant, keeping moisture from pooling.  Lastly, the installation process is simple, making it one of the best choices for your flat roof. It may sound like it is similar to spray applied coatings because they do have a lot in common. The biggest difference from other materials, including sprayed-on, is that the seams can lead to failing. Glue or tape is used to connect the seams, and they will deteriorate over time.  This allows more water over time to enter your home than a seamless system would.

Light Colors Equal Cooler Temperatures

The idea behind cool roofing is the same as the reasons people living in hot climates wear light colored clothing. Here in the desert southwest, wearing light-colored or white clothing helps keep you cool. Its because light colors reflect heat and sunlight, whereas dark colors absorb them. Homes are similar to people. If your roof is dark colored, your home will be hotter than if it had a light-colored roof. During the hot summer months we experience here in the Phoenix area, a darker colored roof can reach temperatures as high as 150 to 190 degrees at their peak.  In contrast, a cool roofing system will peak at around 100 to 120 degrees.

A cool roofing system can reduce the temperature on the surface of your roof by as much as 100 degrees.  This will reduce the heat that is transferred into the interior below.  The attic space and ductwork under the roof will be cooler.  This will lower utility and maintenance costs and improve comfort inside.  It will also increase the lifespan of your roof and lower the urban heat island affect and associated smog levels in cities.

What You Should Know About Cool Roofing

Cool Roofing Materials

They are made of materials that reflect the energy and heat from the sun away from the surface of your roof. The materials for homes with low-slope roofs are typically bright white, however, there are other colors that are being made for more sloped roof applications. Cool roofing is highly emissive, which allows it to emit infrared energy away from the roof. Bare metals and metallic coatings usually don’t have low emissive abilities, which is one of the reasons they aren’t thought of as cool roofing materials.

Cool Roofing Benefits

Cool Roofing Costs

Initial costs for a cool roof are similar to traditional roofing materials. Some cool roofing materials cost less than traditional materials and some cost more. Cool protective coatings can be applied every 10 to 15 years, which can reduce, or eliminate, the need for expensive roof tear-offs and replacements. If you add these roof repair or replacement savings with an average 20 percent savings on utility costs, it makes a cool roof a money saver over the life of your property. You can also get rebates in some communities, in addition to energy and lifespan savings, from local utility companies for installing cool roofing on your home.

Experienced Flat Roof Installation Contractors

There are 2 two types of materials for low-slope roofing systems on homes – single-ply materials and reflective coatings. Single-ply materials are made of large sheets of pre-constructed roofing fastened together over the old roof and sealed at the seams. Reflective coatings are installed or applied over an existing clean, leak-free roof surface using rollers, sprayers, or brushes.

There are other materials available for sloped roofs in clay or concrete tiles. They stay cool by using certain pigments that reflect the sun’s infrared heat. There aren’t asphalt shingles or pre-coated metal roofing materials available in cool versions right now.

You can visit the ENERGY STAR® Website for a comprehensive list of cool roofing system products and manufacturers at www.energystar.gov.

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