Flat Roofers: What Are They & Why You Need Them
The roofs of commercial buildings can often get neglected and have costly negative consequences. One of the best ways to reduce maintenance and installation costs is to invest in flat roofs installed by professional flat roofers.
To help you along the way, we delve into the benefits of flat roofs, the basics of flat roof repair and replacement and how professional flat roofers can help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your building.
What are flat roofers?
Flat roofers are professionals that provide flat roofing services for residential and commercial properties.
They are skilled professionals who specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of flat roofs. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that the roof is properly installed, using materials that are appropriate for the specific climate and conditions of the building’s location. They also must ensure that the roof is properly sealed and insulated to prevent leaks and damage. Additionally, they may be responsible for repairing any damage to the roof, such as leaks or cracks.
Flat roofing can be a specialized skill, and they may also have experience with a range of materials, including built-up roofing, modified bitumen roofing, single-ply roofing, and more.
There are several reasons why you should hire flat roofers for your flat roofing project:
- Expertise and experience: Flat roofers have specialized knowledge and training in flat roofing systems, which means they know the best practices and materials to use to ensure a long-lasting and durable roof. They have experience with a range of flat roofing systems and can identify potential issues before they become major problems.
- Safety: Flat roofing work can be dangerous, especially if you don’t have the proper training and equipment. Roofing specialists are trained to work safely at heights, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries on the job site.
- Quality workmanship: Professionals have the skills and tools necessary to complete your project to the highest standards of quality. They use high-quality materials and techniques to ensure a long-lasting and durable roof.
- Cost-effective: While hiring flat roofing contractors may seem like an additional cost, it can actually save you money in the long run. A well-installed and maintained flat roof can last for many years, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
- Peace of mind: Hiring a professional roofer gives you the peace of mind that your roof is in good hands. You can trust that the work will be completed to the highest standards of quality, and that your roof will provide reliable protection for your property and occupants.
Hiring a specialist is a wise investment in the longevity and safety of your flat roofing system.
What is a flat roof?
A flat roof is usually found on commercial buildings such as warehouses or factories. They are also commonly used on houses and other residential structures. Unlike sloped roofs, which have a distinctive peak, flat roofs lie flat above a property. Flat roofs are designed to be level, with a slight incline to allow for drainage.
You might be wondering why you’d opt for what is perhaps a less elegant and sophisticated option. Well, as you’re about to see, there are a variety of advantages to investing in a flat roof for your commercial property.
How Long Does a Flat Roof Last?
Flat roofs typically last 10-15 years if built and maintained properly and regularly.
Flat Roof Materials
Flat roofs are one of the main types of roof that are typically constructed using the following types of flat roofing materials:
- Rubber Membrane Roof
- Modified Bitumen Roof
- Thermoplastic Membrane Flat Roof
- Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) Roofing
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing
- Spray Polyurethane Foam (offers a strong waterproof membrane)
- Build Up Roof (BUR)
- Concrete Flat Roof
- Green Flat Roof System
- Metal Flat Roof
What are the benefits of flat roofs?
Cheaper to install and repair
Perhaps the best and most important benefit is that flat roof costs considerably cheaper and easier to install. There is less surface area to build, resulting in fewer materials and hours needed for the construction process.
Are flat roofs cheaper?
If your business property doesn’t need too much curb appeal, flat roofs make a natural choice for saving you money in the short and long run.
Quick installation process
Due to being a more straightforward design and having a smaller size, flat roofs are much easier to install. As a result, builders can have your flat roof up and running in no time. This benefit also lowers construction costs.
This means that your workforce won’t be out of the office for too long, and your business can resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
More flexibility
Although sloped roofs might be seen as more visually appealing, they don’t offer much when it comes to flexibility. A flat roof, however, can be used for a variety of purposes. Many businesses take advantage of the extra space and create roof gardens to grow fresh produce or install beehives.
In addition to this, if you plan to install elements such as solar panels on the roof of your commercial property, they will be less noticeable or utterly invisible on a flat top. If your commercial property is big enough, your commercial flat roof could even be designed into a break spot for workers with a lounge area for relaxation.
Easier to maintain
The cheaper materials and easy installation also mean that flat roofs are easier to maintain. Re-roofing can be done quickly without disturbing your work operations for too long. Getting access and moving around on a flat roof is also simpler, allowing workers to operate much quicker than on sloped roofs.
Read more about the benefits of a flat roof for your commercial building.
Flat Roof Repair
Repairing a flat roof could include fixing cracked shingles, fixing small cracks or holes, patching a membrane or resealing the entire roof.
Flat roof repair includes having the replacement materials and tools on hand. The type of roof that you have will affect how you repair your roof. A rubber roof might need rubber roof patches, a BUR will need roofing tar, while PVC or TPO roof will need appropriate membrane and a heat air gun. It is best to proceed with extreme caution when doing DIY repairs.
Flat Roof Problems
Natural disasters and severe weather conditions often damage commercial roofs. These conditions might cause rips, punctures, worn spots, loose screws, separations in the seams, or other issues with your flat roof membrane. Here are some signs that your flat roof needs repair.
- Leaks – This can be a result from damages caused by natural disasters like hail storms, tornadoes, wind damage and fallen debris.
- Broken Gutters – This can cause siding rot and even wash away landscaping.
- Cracks – Changing temperature causes your roof to expand and contract, which leads to cracking.
- Ponding water
Ponding water can cause the following adverse effects on the roof membrane:
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- Deck deformation/deflection
- Roof surfaces damage
- Algae and vegetation growth which causes clogged drains
- A buildup of dirt, debris, and other contaminants
Locating the Leak in A Flat Roof
Leaks are a common roof problem. If you observe leaks in your building or brown stains on your ceilings, try to inspect your building for the source of the leak. Note that flat roofs have a slight slope so start from the possible point of entrance on the roof. It is also best to check out your vents and flashing for any damages.
In fact, if you observed leaks or noticed any of the flat roof problems listed above and are unsure how to repair your roof, it is best to call a professional flat roofer to inspect your roof and repair any water damage or issue.
Flat Roof Repair Vs Flat Roof Replacement
Deciding whether to repair or replace your flat roof would depend on the size of the damaged area. If your roof needs extensive repair, damaged in several areas or over 10 years, replacing your roof may be the better and cost-effective option in the long term. You should also consider the costs of different flat roofing materials. PVC and TPO, for example, can be expensive to install even without labor costs.
Flat Roof Repair Cost
Costs of repairing flat roofs are usually charged based on the damage and amount of repair work required and typically not per square foot.
Talk to your local flat roofing contractors so you can make an informed decision before repairing or replacing your roof.
Should you invest in a flat roof for your business?
As evidenced by this article, flat roofs offer a fantastic value proposition to businesses looking to save money while still receiving a quality product. The low cost, easy maintenance, and extra space provided by flat roofs make it a design option that you should consider investing in.
Expert Flat Roofing Contractors in Oakland, California
Flat roofs are becoming more common in homes and commercial buildings across the country. They provide homeowners and business owners with a variety of benefits, such as energy efficiency and protection from harsh weather conditions.
If you want to install a new flat roof, you should hire professional flat roofing contractors who have experience installing these types of roofs. Hiring a specialist is the best way to protect your properties.
With years of experience and a commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, General Roof is dedicated to providing you with the best possible roofing solutions for your home or business.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you with your flat roofing needs!
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