Commercial properties often have unique needs when it comes to roofing. Understanding the various types of commercial roofing systems available can help property owners, building managers, and contractors make informed decisions that balance durability, cost, and aesthetics.

This guide will explore the most common types of commercial roofing systems, including:

• Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
• Single-Ply Membrane
• Modified Bitumen
• Metal Roofing
• Green Roofing
• Spray Foam Roofing
• Roof Coatings

By the end of this post, you'll have a clear understanding of each system's advantages and considerations, allowing you to choose the right roofing solution for your needs.

1. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is one of the oldest and most reliable forms of commercial roofing systems. It consists of multiple layers of asphalt, felt, and gravel, creating a sturdy and durable roof that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Durability and Longevity

One of the primary advantages of BUR is its durability. With proper maintenance, these roofs can last up to 30 years or more. The multiple layers provide excellent resistance to UV rays, extreme temperatures, and heavy rain, reducing the risk of leaks and damage over time.

Cost-Effectiveness

While the initial installation cost of BUR may be higher compared to some other roofing options, its long lifespan often makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run. Property owners can save on frequent repairs and replacements, making it a wise investment for commercial buildings.

Suitable Environments

BUR is ideal for flat or low-slope roofs and is commonly used in urban settings, where its ability to absorb heat can contribute to energy efficiency. However, its weight may require additional structural support, so it's essential to consult with a qualified roofing contractor before installation.

2. Single-Ply Membrane

Single-Ply Membrane roofing systems have gained popularity for their ease of installation, flexibility, and energy efficiency. These roofs are made from a single layer of synthetic material, usually either TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer).

Energy Efficiency

One of the standout features of Single-Ply Membrane systems is their energy-efficient properties. TPO membranes, in particular, are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, which can lead to lower cooling costs for commercial buildings.

Quick Installation Process

The installation process for Single-Ply Membrane roofs is relatively quick, minimizing disruption to ongoing business operations. This feature is especially advantageous for building managers looking to limit downtime during the installation period.

Versatility and Aesthetics

Single-Ply Membrane roofs are versatile and can be installed on various roof shapes. Additionally, they come in different colors, allowing property owners to choose a style that complements their building's overall look.

3. Modified Bitumen

Modified Bitumen roofing systems are an evolution of traditional BUR systems, offering improved performance and versatility. These roofs are constructed from a single layer of bitumen, modified with polymers for enhanced elasticity and durability.

Enhanced Weather Resistance

The polymer modification in Modified Bitumen roofs significantly improves their resistance to extreme weather conditions, including heavy rains and freezing temperatures. This feature makes them a suitable option for commercial properties located in regions with diverse climates.

Easy Installation

Modified Bitumen roofs can be installed using various methods, including torch-applied, cold adhesive, and self-adhering techniques. This flexibility in installation methods allows commercial property owners to select an option that best suits their budget and timeline.

Repair and Maintenance

In addition to their robustness, Modified Bitumen roofs are relatively easy to repair. Minor issues can be addressed promptly, reducing the risk of more significant damage and extending the overall lifespan of the roofing system.

4. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing systems are renowned for their durability, longevity, and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. Composed of materials such as steel, aluminum, or copper, these roofs are an excellent choice for commercial properties requiring reliable protection.

Durability and Longevity

Metal roofs can last 40-70 years, significantly longer than most other roofing materials. Their resistance to storms, hail, and fire makes them particularly suitable for commercial buildings in areas prone to severe weather.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofing systems are not only durable but also energy-efficient. Many metal roofs are coated with reflective finishes that help reduce heat absorption, leading to lower energy costs for cooling commercial spaces.

Environmentally Friendly Option

Metal roofs are recyclable at the end of their life cycle, making them an environmentally friendly roofing option. Additionally, their energy efficiency contributes to reducing the overall carbon footprint of commercial properties.

5. Green Roofing

Green roofing systems, also known as living roofs, are becoming increasingly popular among environmentally conscious property owners. These roofs are covered with vegetation and soil, providing numerous ecological benefits while also improving the aesthetic appeal of commercial buildings.

Environmental Benefits

Green roofs are known for their ability to improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and support local biodiversity by providing habitats for birds and insects. These environmental advantages align with the growing trend of sustainable building practices.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency

In addition to their ecological benefits, green roofs offer excellent insulation properties. The layers of soil and vegetation help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems and ultimately lowering energy costs.

Aesthetic Appeal

Beyond their environmental and energy-efficient attributes, green roofing systems enhance the visual appeal of commercial buildings. They can be designed to include pathways, seating areas, and native plants, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere for employees and visitors.

6. Spray Foam Roofing

Spray Foam Roofing systems are a modern solution gaining traction in the commercial sector. This roofing option involves applying a layer of polyurethane foam, which expands upon contact to create a seamless and insulated waterproof barrier.

Seamless Design

One of the primary advantages of Spray Foam Roofing is its seamless nature. Unlike traditional roofing materials that may require joints and seams, spray foam forms a continuous layer that eliminates potential leak points, enhancing the roof's overall durability.

Excellent Insulation Properties

The insulation properties of Spray Foam Roofing contribute to energy efficiency by regulating indoor temperatures and reducing the need for heating and cooling systems. Additionally, building owners may benefit from reduced energy costs over time.

Quick Installation Process

Spray Foam Roofing can be installed quickly, often in a single day, making it an attractive option for commercial property owners looking to minimize operational disruptions during installation.

7. Roof Coatings

Roof Coatings are a cost-effective solution for extending the lifespan of existing commercial roofing systems. These coatings, typically made from acrylic, silicone, or polyurethane, are applied as a liquid and cure to form a protective layer over the roof's surface.

Cost-Effective Maintenance

One of the main reasons property owners choose roof coatings is their cost-effectiveness. Instead of investing in a complete roof replacement, applying a roof coating can extend the life of the existing roof, saving capital in the long term.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Many roof coatings are designed with reflective properties, helping to reduce heat absorption and lower energy costs for cooling commercial buildings. This feature aligns with the increasing demand for energy-efficient building solutions.

Protection Against Weather Damage

Roof coatings serve as a protective barrier against UV rays, rain, and debris, preventing premature deterioration of the underlying roofing material. This added layer of protection can significantly enhance the roof's overall durability and performance.

Choosing the right roofing system for a commercial property is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including durability, energy efficiency, and overall cost. Understanding the key differences between the various types of commercial roofing systems is essential for making an informed choice that meets the specific needs of your building.

By investing in a high-quality roofing solution and working with experienced commercial roofers, property owners can ensure that their roofs provide reliable protection and contribute to the long-term value of their investments.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Roofing Systems appeared first on K2 Roofing Blog.

Roofs are arguably the most important feature of any building regardless of whether you are talking about commercial, industrial, or residential buildings.  Roofs offer shelter and protection from inclement weather, but they are also one of the key structural components of a building.  If you are building a home or other outdoor building and you are considering what type of roof to install, you will want to consider some of the pros and cons of pitched versus flat roofing.  Pitched and flat roofing are popular choices for all types of buildings, but there are certainly advantages and disadvantages to each – let’s take a closer look.

Pitched Roofing

First, let’s talk a bit about pitched roofs.  These roofs, as the name implies, feature some kind of slope or pitch.  There are a variety of styles of pitched roofing including gable, cross gable, and hipped.  These types of roofs are built with a pitch of some degree, and we typically associate these roofs with residential structures, though they are used for commercial and industrial buildings as well.

As with all roofing structures, regular maintenance of pitched roofing is crucial to maintaining the long-term integrity of the roof.  With regular maintenance, your pitched roof can last two or more decades without major leaks posing a problem.  However, because of the angled nature of the roof structures, pitched roofs are more difficult to inspect and maintain.  On the other hand, water and melting snow and ice more readily clears off the roof so damage related to standing water is less of a concern.

Pitched roofs are usually more expensive to install, but despite the challenges associated with maintenance and repair they tend to cost less to repair in the long run.  This is most often attributed to better drainage than flat roofs as poor drainage is associated with damage from moisture.

Flat Roofing

Alternatively, flat roofing systems have no pitch, or a very slight slope to encourage adequate run-off for water or melting snow and ice.  These are usually categorized as built-up, single-ply, or sprayed polyurethane foam designs.

Like pitched roofs, flat roofing requires regular maintenance.  As suggested, maintaining a flat roof is somewhat easier because of the flat surface of the roof.  However, with poorer drainage associated with flat roofs, drains are more easily blocked and damage and leaks can be more common than with pitched roofs.  Still, regular inspections and maintenance of flat roofs help to mitigate these risks.

Another benefit of flat roofing is it tends to be cheaper than pitched or sloped roofing.  Nevertheless, in climates with a lot of precipitation, flat roofs tend to require more maintenance and the savings associated with installation may be lost in maintenance and repair costs over the years.

Ultimately, there are many reasons to choose either pitched or flat roofs for your home or building.  Speak to a qualified contractor for help making the best decision for your project.

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Commercial roofing represents a highly specialized industry wherein roofing experts utilize a variety of construction materials and methods.  To believe that all commercial roofs are constructed from the same materials would be incorrect.  So then, when it comes to commercial roofing practice, what are some of the most common roofing materials and how would you choose the best materials for your building?  Let’s take a closer look at the most common material for commercial roofing and some of the reasons they are selected for various projects.

There are a variety of commercial roofing materials but we will discuss three of the most common including ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).  Depending on factors such as cost, climate, and durability, roofers will recommend materials that most effectively meet your needs.

EPDM roofs are sometimes known as rubber roofs and these materials are commonly selected because they provide great value.  Not only are EPDM roofs relatively inexpensive, they are easy to install, lightweight, and relatively easy to maintain.  With a lifespan of approximately 20 years, EPDM roofs provide reasonable durability as well.  However, EPDM roofs are not the most common choice for those concerned with aesthetics – these roofs essentially look like black, rubber coverings.  Since they are black, they also absorb heat meaning cooling costs in the summer can be considerably higher.  With respect to effects from weather, EPDM roofs are more susceptible to punctures from events such as hailstorms or falling branches.  Still, punctures are easily repaired and major problems can be avoided with appropriate maintenance.

TPO roofs are increasingly popular as a low cost option that reflects heat and reduces cooling costs.  These are lightweight roofs that are resistant to corrosion, prevent algae and mildew growth, and feature heat-sealed seams that are more resistant to leaks.  Nevertheless, TPO roofs are not fire resistant which means fire retardants need to be integrated into your roofing system.

Finally, PVC roofing features two layers of material reinforced with polyester between the layers.  Additives in the layers make PVC roofs resistant to UV damage, and like EPDM and TPO roofs, they are lightweight and easily installed.  PVC roofs make an excellent choice for flat or low-slope roofs as they are quite durable and stand up well to moisture, fire, wind, and even chemicals.  Installing PVC roofs requires a heat welding process which permanently bonds the roofing sheets and securely attaches seams.  On the other hand, PVC roofs are known to shrink which ultimately creates pressure on the seams.  Additionally, PVC roofs are relatively expensive and they are not ideal for colder temperatures.  PVC repair can be challenging so regular maintenance becomes especially important.

When selecting the roofing material for your commercial building, it is always highly recommended that you work with roofing experts and get their advice.  Roofing contractors have the knowledge and experience to fit your roof with the right materials.

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Roofing contractors will tell you that one of the leading contributing factors to roof deterioration is improper maintenance. Homeowners often expect that their roof is in good condition if it can survive major weather events; but if you have to wait for a storm to learn that it needs repairs, you’ve waited too long. Even minor leaks during a moderate rainstorm may be a sign of more significant problems; and since your roof provides important structural support to your home and protection to your belongings, it is vital that you ensure it is cared for properly.

Roofing materials and fixtures should be inspected regularly to spot the early signs of damage and prevent leaks and more significant issues.  Just as you would carefully clean and protect the internal aspects of your home, you need a professional roofer to clean and protect your roof.  The following guidelines will help you keep your roof in good condition so that major problems do not arise.

• ·         Have your roof inspected at least twice a year for signs of damage.  Professionals recommend roof inspections at the end of winter and beginning of fall as the fall and winter months generally bring the most damaging weather with respect to roofs.
• ·         External roof inspections are important, but also look for signs of damage internally.  Search every room and your attic for water spots on the ceilings and walls.  Make sure to check in closets and storage spaces and even look behind furniture.  Water spots and mold are indications that your roof may have a leak.  You’ll need to find the source of any water spot to avoid dry rot, mold, and even pest infestation.
• ·         In your attic, check beams and rafters for signs of water damage.  Mark water spots so you can easily determine if they are growing – a sure sign of a roof leak.
• ·         External roof inspections should focus on the overall quality of the roof as well as closer inspections of roofing materials and fixtures.  A professional roofer will assess the condition of your roof’s major features being careful to spot moss or algae growth.  They’ll check the flashing and eaves, as well as gutters to ensure they are draining properly.  If they notice parts of your roof sagging, this is an indication of more serious structural damage, and your roofing contractor will recommend the necessary repairs.
• ·         Hire a roofing professional to take a walk on your roof for a more refined inspection of fixtures and materials.  If they spot missing shingles or damaged flashing around chimneys and other fixtures, your roofer will need to conduct some repairs.
• ·         Always consult a professional roofer when you are not confident in your abilities.  Roofing repairs and installation require specialized skills, tools, and safety equipment that you likely do not own.  Nevertheless, maintaining the condition of your roof is crucial to protecting your home and belongings.

The post Avoid Major Roof Repairs appeared first on K2 Roofing Blog.

The leaky condo crisis of the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s provides plenty of proof that construction materials and methods can have a major impact on the overall condition and quality of your home.  Living in British Columbia means that you likely experience more rain in a few months than most climates experience in an entire year.  Yet, if you’re wondering which the best roofing materials for British Columbia are, there are no simple answers.  Indeed, British Columbia offers a very diverse climate, and many regions face a great deal of rain as well.  So, if you’re asking yourself which roofing materials are the best, speak to a qualified roofing contractor in your city.

Nevertheless, while even the most experienced roofer cannot offer a simple answer to this question, there are some guidelines that can help you choose the best materials for your roof.  Today, residential roofing materials come in a wide range of colours, textures, and types that each offer unique benefits and characteristics.  Choosing the right roofing material for you requires that you carefully consider your needs and also discuss your options with a roofing contractor.

Clearly, your roof is an important aspect of your home; one that provides key structural elements in addition to protecting your home, its contents, and your family from inclement weather.  Moreover, roof replacements generally constitute a sizeable investment, but if you choose the right roof and the right materials, it is an investment for many years to come.  Your roof should not only provide the right function, but the right style as well so choosing the right roofing materials requires that you make the following considerations:

1. What is your budget?  An excellent roofer can help you choose sound materials and design that will fall within your budget.
2. What is the style of your home?  Roofing materials are available in an impressive variety of styles, colours, and textures so be sure to choose materials that match the look of your home.
3. What are your insulation needs?  Your roof needs to effectively insulate against cold winters and hot summers.
4. Will your roof resist fire?  This is an important consideration for all homeowners, but especially those who live in high risk forest fire zones.
5. What are your weather conditions?  Rain, snow, and wind are just a few elements that can have a destructive impact on your home, so you need to consider these factors before choosing a roof.

Still, even after you consider all these questions, you will still find a variety of options available to you.  Composition or fibreglass shingles, wood shakes, rubber shakes, clay tile and slate roofing, and even metal roofing are all popular options in British Columbia.  As such, you should make an appointment with a professional roofer to determine the style, function and design of your roof and which materials fit best.

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In general, commercial and industrial building feature flat roofs, but that’s not to say all flat roofs are the same.  There are a number of flat roof options for commercial and industrial buildings and each have their pros and cons.  Perhaps one of the best commercial roofing products today is the sprayed polyurethane foam roof, though it is not commonly installed.  Built-up roofs, modified bitumen roofs, PVC roofing, and single ply EPDM roofing structures tend to be more popular.  Let’s take a look at each of these roofing products and some of their benefits and disadvantages.

Built-up Roof

Built-up roofs dominate commercial and industrial roofing because they are inexpensive and provide a nice aesthetic.  You would recognize a built-up roof as it is typically covered in gravel.  These roofs feature multiple layers and provide great insulation, but they tend to be quite heavy.  Because of the relative weight of built-up roofs, they are not always an appropriate option for a commercial or industrial facility; in fact, these roofs usually require reinforced joists which often results in increased construction costs and time.

Modified Bitumen Roof

Modified bitumen roofs are a popular single-ply roofing system that require highly specialized installation skills.  Nevertheless, modified bitumen roofing systems are one of the eco-friendliest flat roofing options because they can help reduce energy costs.  Indeed, these roofing systems reflect heat from the sun so help to reduce the cost associated with cooling the building. 

PVC Roofs

Durable and easy to install, PVC roofing resists water pooling making them a popular choice for wet climates.  However, PVC installation involves applying the roofing system from rolls so there will be seams throughout the roof surface.  Each of these seams can potentially fail and result in leaks.  So, while PVC roofing systems are durable, they are not as effective as polyurethane foam roofs.

Single-ply EPDM

EPDM systems are constructed from a rubber compound making them quite durable – in fact, they are commonly regarded as one of the most long-lasting flat roofing products available.  However, like PVC roofs, EPDM systems also have seams so if they are not installed properly they can be very vulnerable to leaks.  Maintenance at seams can be costly, and these roofs are known to be require more maintenance than other flat roofing systems.

Spray-Applied Roof Coating

Polyurethane spray-applied foam roofing systems are possibly the best commercial roofing products on the market today.  Featuring seamless application, these roofs incorporate most of the benefits of the other roofing systems discussed and few of the drawbacks.  These roofs resist water pooling for better durability but also have reflective properties to reduce heating and cooling costs.  Most importantly, spray-applied roofing systems are among the most sustainable.  Though they tend to cost more to install, their durability and easy maintenance will save building owners over the lifespan of the roof.

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Your roof is a major structural component of your home (or any building for that matter), and one that requires regular maintenance and repairs in order to preserve optimal functioning.  With respect to shingled roofs, shingle replacement is a common repair.  Sometimes you’ll replace an entire roof, while other times you’ll need only to conduct repairs to a portion of your roof.  Because roofing repairs and/or replacements constitute a sizeable investment, you want to take every precaution to prevent major repairs.  So, let’s turn our attention to flashing and the integral role it plays in protecting your roof.

What is Flashing?

First, let’s get a better understanding of flashing.  Simply put, flashing serves one major purpose, and one purpose only: flashing prevents water from entering wherever there are penetrations on your roof.  Examples of roof penetrations include vents, chimneys, pipes, and drains. 

Flashing is a relatively inexpensive roofing material, and many professionals will replace flashing whenever shingle damage is near or incorporates flashing.  That being said, it isn’t always necessary to replace flashing when conducting shingle repairs or replacements.  In fact, depending on the type of flashing, you may or may not need to replace it.  Let’s have a closer look.

Drip Edge Flashing

Generally speaking, there are two varieties of drip edge flashing.  One type of drip edge flashing is designed to protect the gutter edge of your roof and the other to protect the edge or roof rake edge of your roof.  Drip edge flashing channels water off the roof and away from the fascia, and it is attached to the roof before roofing felt is applied.  Most roofing professionals advise replacing drip edge flashing unless the current flashing is in new condition.

Gutter Flashing

Roofers will also recommend replacing gutter flashing when shingle repairs or replacement is already being done.  However, if you have decorative attachments that are attached to gutter flashing using screws or spikes, you should consider overlaying your drip edge with new gutter flashing. 

Penetration Flashing

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning penetrations, pluming vent pipes, and other roofing penetrations usually feature metal or rubber flashing that serves to seal penetrations and prevent water from entering your home.  Ideally, you want to replace all rubber boots during your roofing repairs.  Metal flashing should be replaced unless it is in new condition.

Valley Flashing

As the name suggests, valley flashing is installed whenever two roof planes intersect in order to direct water flow.  Valley flashing should always be replaced as the demands on this type of flashing can be significant. 

Vertical Wall Flashing

Similar to valley flashing, vertical wall flashing is installed when one roofing plan meets a wall such as a chimney, dormer, or even a split-level roof.  It can be difficult to remove and replace this flashing, particularly when the flashing has been grouted at the joints.  Nevertheless, unless this flashing appears in new condition, you should replace it.

Food For Thought

As you can see, it is almost always beneficial to replace flashing when you are conducting roof repairs.  That being said, this kind of work is always best left to roofing professionals who can more accurately assess the quality and durability of all your roofing structures and materials.

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Commercial roofing is a much more complicated industry than many of us are aware.  Though there are 2 standard types of commercial roof – low slope and steep slope – there are actually a wide range of materials utilized in commercial roofing.  We’ll consider these two main types of commercial roof, if only to help organize the discussion.  But, before we start, let’s define low slope and steep slope roofs.

First, low slope roofs are those that require weatherproof or waterproof membranes as they feature slopes at 14° or less.  On the other hand, steep slope roofs allow for water-shedding as their slopes are greater than 14°.  As such, these types of roofs are often constructed from different materials.  Let’s have a closer look.

Low Slope Roofs

A low slope commercial roof is usually constructed from one of four different types of material:

1. Metal panels
2. Single-ply membranes
3. Built-up roof membranes
4. Spray polyurethane foam-based roofs

Metal panels are highly versatile.  They are an excellent option for commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings because they’re durable and relatively cost effective. 

Single-ply membrane roofing refers to pre-manufactured sheet membranes that are either thermoplastic or thermoset.  These sheets vary in thickness and are secured to a roof system to provide protection against inclement weather.  Often referred to as “rubber roofing,” these systems are flexible and durable.

Built-up roof membranes have been utilized in roofing for more than a century and are commonly known as tar and gravel roofs.  They are composed of alternating layers of bitumen and fabric for reinforcement to create a protective roofing membrane.  These roofs are affordable, durable, and relatively easy to maintain.

Finally, spray polyurethane foam-based roofs can be used on new commercial roofs or installed over an existing roof.  These systems can replace most roofing systems and feature a spray-on foam that seals and protects your commercial roof. 

Steep Slope Roofs

Now that we have a better idea about roofing materials for commercial low slope roofs, let’s turn our attention to steep slope roofs.  There are 5 common types of materials for these kinds of commercial roof:

1. Asphalt shingles
2. Metal roofing
3. Wood shakes and shingles
4. Slate
5. Clay or concrete tiles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of residential roofing system in North America, but they’re also excellent applications for steep slope commercial roofs.  They’re affordable and easy to maintain while also providing lasting protection.

Metal roofing is adequate for both steel and low slope commercial roofs.  Though more expensive than other types of roofing systems, commercial metal roofs hold up well to all kinds of weather.  Not only are they flexible with respect to their effectiveness in different climates, they are also highly durable.

Wood shakes and shingles are an attractive roofing option even for commercial properties.  If aesthetic is important, these are definitely an excellent options.  But wood shakes and shingles are durable as well.  They withstand severe storms and high winds, and they’re also energy efficient.

Slate roofing for commercial steep slope roofs are regarded as high quality, long lasting systems.  As a natural stone product, they’re aesthetically pleasing but also highly fire resistant and environmentally friendly.  However, slate roofs tend to be quite heavy and costly.

Finally, clay or concrete roofing systems are also stylish and durable.  They tend to be heavier than other roofing systems, and they’re also quite expensive.  That being said, they also are a great choice for all climates, and they’re fire resistant too!

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Sometimes you don’t have the luxury of scheduling your roof replacement.  In the event of an emergency, you’re likely to find roofing repairs or replacement are considerably more expensive – not because roofers are cashing in at your time of need, but because emergency roofing work typically comes up during a roofer’s busiest season.  Of course, emergency roofing repairs are not always avoidable, but with regular maintenance and inspections you can ensure that your roof will survive seasonal weather challenges so that you can schedule repairs or replacement during the roofing off-season when rates tend to be lower.

So when is the best time to reroof?  Obviously, roofing contractors are available year-round to help homeowners with their roofing needs.  As a homeowner, you may think it is in your best interests to delay roofing replacement as long as possible, but it’s much more important to consider the quality of your roof when deciding when to schedule a replacement.  This is why regular maintenance and repairs are so important.  An annual roofing inspection will reveal minor problems that can be repaired before they become catastrophic damage.  Moreover, your roofing contractor will likely be able to predict when your roof will need to be replaced.

A good contractor will always try to coordinate roof replacement or major roofing repairs with their offseason.  Late summer and fall tend to be the busiest months of the year for roofing companies.  As we prepare for the harsh realities of winter weather, we want to be sure our roofs are in good condition, so it makes sense that roofers would be busiest leading up to the winter months.  Moreover, late summer weather tends to be more predictable and temperatures are cooler so it’s easier to schedule and conduct repairs.  However, being the busiest months for roofers also means it can be difficult to find available contractors.  Roofing supplies also tend to be more expensive during the late summer and early fall months, so homeowners will likely find the peak season for roofing to be the most expensive.

On the other hand, scheduling major roofing work during the winter months can be easier since roofers tend to be less busy at this time of year.  Asphalt shingles can be installed in any temperature without affecting their warranty, so if you live in a dry environment, winter might be a great time to schedule your roofing work.  Unfortunately, winter weather can be unpredictable in most climates making it challenging for roofers to complete a project in a timely manner.  Interruptions from weather can definitely impact the cost of your roofing replacement.

As you can see, there are pros and cons to conducting a roof replacement at any time of the year.  Ideally, you want to have the luxury of planning ahead whenever it comes to major roofing projects.  So what does that mean?  Ensure you schedule regular inspections and maintenance for your roof so that you can effectively plan major repairs or replacements.  

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Though more typical for commercial structures, it is not uncommon for homes to feature flat roofs.  Still, homeowners tend to know very little about roofs in general, much less flat roofs.  In fact, when it comes to roofs, homeowners are typically only interested in one factor: aesthetic.  Pitched roofs are certainly the standard for residential structures, but flat roofs are actually less expensive to install and are therefore a common choice for homes in North America.  If you have a flat roof or you’ve chosen a flat roof for your new home, the obvious question is what is the best roofing material for flat roofs?

Essentially, there are three varieties of flat roof: felt, ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), and fibreglass.  So, let’s take a closer look.

Felt (aka Torch On)

Sometimes known as a felt roof, polyester reinforced, or torch on flat roof have come a long way in the last couple of decades.  In the past, bitumen felt roofs were criticized for poor flexibility and durability, but these roofs have improved considerably in the past few years.  Usually applied with a 3 layer system, felt roofs feature a vapour control layer, 2mm of reinforced felt, and a final layer of 4mm felt cap sheet.  This final layer of torch on roofs may be plain black bitumen, solar reflective finish, or mineral fleck finish which is available in a range of colours.

Felt roofs are generally guaranteed for 10 years, but some contractors may offer guarantees of up to 20 years.  That being said, it’s not unheard of for a well-installed torch on roof to last up to 30 years if it is properly maintained.  Easily the cheapest option with respect to flat roofs, felt roofs are a great choice for the budget-conscious. 

EPDM

EPDM is a fancy way of saying rubber.  EPDM roofs have become increasingly popular since they were introduced in the UK a few years ago.  Often installed in one layer, EPDM roofs can eliminate the need for joins thereby reducing the risk of leaks.  These roofs are very light weight, flexible, and durable and make a great choice regardless of the climate in your region. 

In fact, EPDM roofs are very tough and guarantees can last up to 50 years, and their cost is not prohibitive.  Though, you should expect to pay about 20% more for an EPDM roof than a felt roof.

Fibreglass

Sometimes known as glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GRP), fibreglass roofs are by no means new, but they definitely represent the most advanced technology in flat roofs.  With modern resins and proper installation, fibreglass flat roofs are highly resistant to damage and can be repaired very easily.  The main benefit of fibreglass roofing systems is their appearance, but they also tend to be the most expensive.  Guarantees on fibreglass roofs are usually for around 25 years, but can last much longer than 30 years when they are installed properly.

Ultimately, determining the best material for flat roofs depends on a number of factors, including your budget and aesthetic preferences.  Likely, EPDM roofs offer the best bang for your buck, but you should probably discuss your options with a qualified roofing professional.  

Related: 

Residential roofing: http://www.k2roofing.com/roofing-services/residential-roofing/ 

Commercial roofing: http://www.k2roofing.com/roofing-services/commercial-roofing/

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