Take a look around any city or town and you will see buildings with different types of roofs. Some are on an incline, such as gable roofs, and some are flat. Why do some buildings use slanted roofs while flat roofs are more commonly used in other types? Today we will tell all about flat roofs!
What is a flat roof?
Flat roofing is a type of roofing that has little to no slope, creating a horizontal or nearly horizontal surface. Unlike traditional pitched roofs, which have a noticeable slope to facilitate water runoff, flat roofs appear level. They are common in commercial buildings, modern residential homes, and some historical architectural styles.
In the modern age, flat roofs use various materials, including one or a combination of the following:
- Built-up roofing (BUR), which consists of layers of asphalt and reinforcing fabrics.
- Modified bitumen, which is a type of asphalt membrane reinforced with fiberglass or polyester.
- Single-ply membranes made of materials like EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- TPO (thermoplastic olefin)
- Newer alternatives like green roofs or cool roofs.
While flat roofs offer certain advantages such as affordability, easy access for maintenance, and a spot for rooftop gardens, skybars, or solar panels, they also present challenges, particularly in managing water drainage and preventing leaks. Therefore, proper installation, maintenance, and drainage systems are crucial to make sure flat roofs last a long time and perform well.
Where can you find flat roofs?
Flat roofs exist on both residential and commercial buildings, although people more often associate them with commercial structures. However, in recent years, flat roofs have become increasingly popular in residential construction as well, particularly in modern and contemporary architectural styles. Here’s a brief history of their use.
A Brief History of Flat Roofs
Flat roofs existed in various civilizations and architectural styles throughout history. From ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean to classical antiquity in Greece and Rome, people constructed flat roofs with locally available materials like mud bricks and timber, serving residential, religious, and governmental purposes.
This structural style continued throughout the middle ages, industrial revolution, and into modern times. The only thing that really changed were the materials used.
During the Industrial Revolution around the turn of the 20th century, there were advancements in materials like asphalt and tar which revolutionized flat roof construction with waterproof options like EPDM and PVC membranes.
In the modern era, flat roofs have experienced a resurgence in commercial and residential construction, symbolizing modern architectural aesthetics and offering space for rooftop amenities such as gardens and solar panels.
TPO vs. EPDM Flat Roofs
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) are two popular types of single-ply roofing membranes used in flat roofing systems. While they serve the same basic function of providing a waterproof barrier for roofs, there are several differences between the two:
Material Composition
- TPO roofing membranes are made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. This blend creates a durable yet flexible material that is resistant to UV radiation, chemicals, and punctures. Since it’s so sturdy, it can handle considerable foot traffic, making it a “walkable roof.”
- EPDM roofing membranes are made from a synthetic rubber compound composed of ethylene, propylene, and diene monomer. EPDM is known for its excellent weather resistance and flexibility over a wide range of temperatures. While it’s ok for professionals to walk on it lightly during installation, it’s not intended for heavy foot traffic.
Installation Methods
- TPO: These are typically installed using heat welding or adhesive bonding. Heat welding creates strong seams between the sheets, enhancing the overall integrity of the roofing system.
- EPDM: These are usually installed using either fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted methods. Fully adhered installations involve bonding the membrane directly to the roof substrate using adhesive, while mechanically fastened installations use fasteners to secure the membrane.
Color Options
- TPO: Are usually available in a variety of colors, including white, light gray, and tan. White TPO membranes are particularly popular because they reflect sunlight, helping to reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs.
- EPDM: Typically come in black, although some manufacturers offer white EPDM membranes. However, white EPDM tends to be less common than white TPO.
Durability and Longevity
Both TPO and EPDM are durable roofing materials with good longevity when properly installed and maintained. TPO membranes tend to offer better resistance to punctures, tears, and chemical exposure compared to EPDM.
Additionally, the heat-welded seams of TPO roofs are often considered more reliable than the seams of EPDM roofs, which rely on adhesives or mechanical fasteners.
Cost
In terms of cost, TPO and EPDM membranes are generally comparable. However, installation costs can vary depending on factors such as the size of the roof, the complexity of the installation, and local labor rates.
Ultimately, the choice between TPO and EPDM roofing membranes depends on factors such as climate, budget, aesthetic preferences, and the specific requirements of the roofing project. Consulting with a qualified roofing contractor can help determine the best option for your particular needs.
The Advantage of using a Flat Roof
Using a flat roof offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for various types of buildings. Here are a few of the reasons why residents and business owners choose this type of roof.
1. Cost-Effectiveness
Flat roofs are generally more cost-effective to install compared to pitched roofs because they require fewer materials and less labor. Additionally, the simple design of flat roofs often makes them easier and less expensive to maintain and repair over time.
2. Optimizing Space
Flat roofs provide usable space on top of the building, which serve various purposes such as rooftop gardens, outdoor living areas, recreational spaces, or installation of solar panels and HVAC equipment. This additional space can add value to the property and increase its functionality.
This is especially advantageous in urban areas where land is limited and expensive. Vertical expansion allows more amenities to exist in denser areas. Since flat roofs allow for the construction of additional floors or rooftop extensions, they maximize the use of available space without expanding the building’s footprint.
3. Easy Access
The flat surface of a flat roof makes it easy to access for maintenance, inspection, and repairs. This accessibility can reduce maintenance costs and make it simpler to perform routine tasks such as cleaning gutters, inspecting roof components, or servicing equipment installed on the roof.
4. Versatility in Design
Flat roofs offer design flexibility, allowing architects and builders to create modern and minimalist building designs. They can be easily integrated with other architectural elements such as skylights, parapet walls, and rooftop decks, enabling creative and customized building designs.
They can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of modern and contemporary buildings. Their clean lines, sleek appearance, and ability to create open and expansive interior spaces contribute to a visually appealing building design.
5. Energy Efficiency
Flat roofs can contribute to energy efficiency by providing opportunities for the installation of cool roofing materials, insulation, and reflective coatings. These measures can help reduce heat absorption, lower cooling costs, and improve the overall energy performance of the building.
6. Quicker Installation
Flat roofs are typically quicker to install than pitched roofs since they involve fewer structural elements and require less complex framing. This can help expedite the construction process and reduce overall project timelines.
- Tl;Dr: Using a flat roof is a practical and attractive choice for a wide range of building types, from commercial and industrial facilities to residential homes and urban developments.
Continental Roof Company: A Trusted Brand
When it comes to roofing materials, Noble Roofing is pretty picky. that’s why we stand by Continental Roof Company. Their tagline is “Elevating Horizons,” which refers to the company’s legacy of excellence in offering premium solutions for modern architecture and urban living.
With a focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability, Continental is synonymous with reliability and sophistication in flat roof design and construction.
As an innovative leader in the roofing industry, Continental is at the forefront of technological advancements and sustainable practices, continuously pushing boundaries and setting new standards. Not only does Noble Roof stand by this brand, but Continental is also trusted by architects, builders, and homeowners alike for delivering durable and dependable flat roof solutions.
On top of that, Continental is also committed to environmental stewardship, prioritizing eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and waste reduction strategies, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Get a Flat Roof for Your Home or Commercial Building
In summary, flat roofs are present in both residential and commercial construction, each offering unique advantages suited to their respective building types and architectural styles. Whether for commercial or residential use, flat roofs can provide practicality, versatility, and aesthetic appeal when properly designed, installed, and maintained.
Are you interested in getting a flat roof for your home or a commercial property? Then contact Noble Roofing today. We’ll give you a free quote and share our ideas on what flat roof product would best fit your needs. If you also want to explore roof repair and our other services like gutter installation and chimney repair, we can also provide quotes for those services!
