Flat roofs are commonly used among commercial buildings. One of the main reasons is that they are incredibly cost effective. A flat roof can be completed in a short time. Moreover, it requires fewer materials than sloped roofing. Since there are not many complications in installation, the labor cost is much cheaper as well.
Due to its flat surface, you will have extra space on top of the building that you can transform into a garden, a lounge, or anything you want. If you are not interested in these options, you might as well make use of the space by placing solar panels on top to save more energy. Another reason why flat roofing is popular for buildings is there are height limits that structures have to comply to in each area. If you opt for a sloped roof, you might have to sacrifice an entire floor so that you don’t exceed the height limits. If you’re considering a flat roof for your commercial building, here are five systems you should know about:
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer)
One of the typical flat roofing choices is EPDM. This type of roofing is very affordable and durable. If there happen to be any leak problems, repairing EPDM will be a breeze for the contractors. Nowadays, there are two colors of EPDM: black and white. You can choose from a variety of thickness so that your new roof meets your needs. The ease of installation and repairs are two main reasons that EPDM is so attractive to business owners and builders everywhere.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
TPO is still fairly new, meaning that some people still doubt its efficacy. However, there has been quite a few improvements since this material was first introduced. TPO is perfect for those who wish to save more energy since it reflects the sunlight and prevents heat from seeping through. Once you install TPO, you can look forward to cheaper electric bills. In contrast to EPDM, this type of roofing material comes in many colors. No matter what color your building is, there will be a TPO color option that matches with the structure.
Modified Bitumen (Torch Down Roofing)
Looking for a type of roof that is flexible? Bitumen is the final answer for you. This material is amazing for flexibility and durability. Another name of Bitumen is torch-down roofing. It obtained this name because of its installation method. To install this type of roof, contractors use the technique of torching down the sheet onto a fiberglass base so that the layers stay attached. This installation technique ensures that your Bitumen roof remains durable and resistant to cracks.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
The classic flat roofing option has to be PVC. This is an excellent choice for those who want to save the earth as PVC is also known as green roofing. This material does not have a strong environmental impact. Moreover, it can reflect 65% of sunlight. Some manufacturers have even developed PVC roofing that absorbs only 20% of the heat, which then help you save energy in the building. It requires little-to-no maintenance and can last for up to 30 years.
SPF (Spray Polyurethane Foam)
The installation procedure is extremely quick and easy. The contractor will spray liquid that expands into a foam, minimizing the chance of error. The finished roof will be free of cracks and seams. When it rains, you will not have to worry about leak problems as SPF roofs never leak. Like other materials, it also reflects sunlight and reduces noise from the outside.