Roofs can either be flat, low sloped, or steep sloped. Membrane-type roofing systems are used for flat and low-sloped roofs, whereas materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or tile are used in steep-sloped roofs.
If you’re planning to get a flat or low-sloped roof for your home, here are some useful facts that you need to know before installing one.
Components of a Flat/Low-Slope Roof
A low-sloped roof has three basic principal components:
- Weatherproofing layer(s), which keeps water from entering your home
- Reinforcements for additional strength, puncture resistance, and dimensional stability
- Surfacing component, which protects the weatherproofing and reinforcement layers from the harsh sunlight and exposure to the elements
Types of Roofing Systems
East Lake, FL, roofers install either traditional or single-ply systems for your flat or low-sloped roof. Each system has a different formulation, durability factor, and cost. Here are some more types of traditional roofing systems for flat roofs.
- Built-up
This type of system is one of the oldest and most reliable methods used in flat/low-sloped roofing. It can also be installed on any type of roof deck. It consists of several plies of roof felt that are laminated in hot asphalt and surfaced with gravel set in a flood of asphalt. The multiple plies offer protection against leaks, while the gravel surfacing and flood coating provide protection from UV rays and resistance to wind.
- Modified
Modified bitumen systems consist of several plies of roof felt that are also laminated in hot asphalt. The main difference from built-up roofing systems is that this type has a cap sheet composed of ceramic granules. It can be installed on any roof deck and can be custom-made to satisfy specific requirements. It is also lighter, can be installed quickly, is available in numerous color options, and is also ENERGY STAR–compliant.
Single-ply systems are another available option for flat or low-sloped roofs.
- Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)
This is one of the most common types of single-ply roofing systems. It is relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and easy to work with. This type of material is known to last for up to 10 to 15 years.
- Thermoplastic olefin (TPO)
Constructed from ethylene propylene rubber, this material is designed to have the durability of rubber and the proven performance of hot air–wieldable seams. Single-ply TPO is known to be energy-efficient, environment-friendly, and safe to install.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
This is composed of only one layer of material and is specifically designed to prevent standing water. It can help lower energy costs, as it is known to reflect nearly 90% of heat from the sun. It is also 100% recyclable.
You can ask your East Lake, FL, roofing contractors for coating systems for your flat/low-sloped roofing system. This coating can form a durable and continuous membrane over your existing roof, resulting in a watertight seal. Benefits of coating systems include versatility, energy efficiency, and an extended roof life span.
Flat/low-sloped roofing systems from Arry’s Roofing Services
You can trust Arry’s Roofing Services for all your commercial and residential roofing needs. We provide a wide selection of materials for your flat or low-sloped roofs and even steep roofs. We make sure that you get the most appropriate and cost-effective roofing solutions for your home.
To learn more about our services or to request a quote, just fill up our contact information. You can also schedule a free roof inspection by calling us at (727) 279-5001.
