Types of Material for Making a Flat Roof
Flat roofs are easy to build and have the advantage of being able to house HVAC equipment right underneath them with no wasted space, unlike pitched roofs. The obvious problem with the design is it affords no natural drainage; elaborate and pricey drainage systems often offset the savings of choosing a flat rather than a pitched roof design. Based on these considerations, flat roofing is most popular in very dry regions with little to no precipitation. Does this Spark an idea?
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Flat Roofing Material Choices
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Four materials are most used for flat roofing. They include built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen, single-ply and sprayed polyurethane foam (SPF). SPF is the newest flat roofing material on the market.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
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BUR is created by layering sheets of tar and water-resistant materials and covering them with gravel to establish a nice-looking, fire-retardant surface. While it is the most cost-effective flat roofing material, its weight may require reinforcement of joints to support it. It also has an offensive smell, and the gravel is prone to clogging rooftop drainage systems and gutters.
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Modified Bitumen Flat Roofing
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Modified bitumen is another popular material for flat roofs. It is commonly made of asphalt sheeting with a fiberglass base. The sheeting is laid in layers with hot bitumen applied between each sheet to secure it to the roof. This method is more popular for commercial roofs than residential ones and is inexpensive. However, the asphalt deteriorates in sunlight and will need replacement more often than other materials.
Single-Ply Roofs
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Single-ply roofs are gaining in popularity based on their longevity and reliability. The two main types of single-ply roofing materials are Thermoset membranes made from rubber polymers and secured at the edges and seams with liquid adhesive or tape and thermoplastic membranes manufactured from plastic polymers with seams created with heat or chemical welding. The single-ply roofing option is a bit costlier than others but lasts considerably longer with minimal problems.
Sprayed Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
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When professionally sprayed on rooftops, SPF creates a single seamless roof. Because the polyurethane foam is supple and lightweight, it can be used on any shaped roof without problems. It can also be applied over any existing roofing surface and provides excellent insulation. It is the newest flat roofing option available and although it is pricier than some other options, it has been well-received by homeowners and contractors alike.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Everjean
