There are various flat roofing systems types and each of them may require specific care and maintenance that may be different from the others. If you are a business owner, you probably have a flat roof installed in your building and it is crucial that you know what type it is to help you make better decisions about maintenance, repair, and replacement. Thus, to help you, we’ll discuss the 5 types of flat roofing systems in this blog post.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Roofing
This type of flat roofing system is a single-ply synthetic rubber membrane that is available in both black and white and is stretched tight over an insulation board or fiberboard. Its two main components are ethylene and propylene, which are obtained from oil and natural gas. It is either adhered or glued down or ballasted or weighted down with large rocks on top of the sheets of roofing.
Perhaps the greatest advantage of EPDM roofing is that it is considered the cheapest of all the flat roofing options. It is very easy and quick to install and repair. It is also highly durable as it can last for about 25 to 30 years.
Modified Bitumen Roofing (MBR)
MBR is an asphalt-based sheet similar to BUR but is installed in five layers, starting with insulation, then modified base sheet, modified bitumen membrane, adhesive, and surfacing top coat. Depending on the project’s specifications and materials required, MBR can be installed using several installation methods including hot applied, torch applied, cold applied, and self-adhered.
The advantage of MBR compared to other flat roofing systems types is that property owners can install them on their own since the self-adhered method (peel-and-stick) is very easy to follow. In addition, it is also available in light-colored mineral surfaces which makes the roof highly reflective, thus, lowering your energy costs.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing
This type of flat roofing system is a single-ply membrane, usually white or gray, that is installed in large sheets that are merged to form a single, continuous membrane. Similar to EPDM, TPO roofing can be adhered to or mechanically attached with screws and plates to the deck of the roof.
The advantage of TPO roofing is that it is also highly reflective, which means that it reflects the sun’s heat instead of absorbing them. They are also very easy to install and so long as it is done properly, they can last for up to 25 years. They are eco-friendly as well since the material is recyclable once it reaches the end of its lifespan.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing
PVC roofing is a single-ply white membrane that is commonly used not just in commercial buildings but also in residential properties. They are made from a scrim that is laminated in a UV-resistant PVC thermoplastic. They are almost similar to TPO both in characteristics, installation process, and chemical make-up. The only distinction is that PVC roofing is more flexible and has been around longer than TPO roofs.
The advantage of installing this type of flat roofing system is that it is more durable and reliable. It is resistant to hot weather climates, dirt, and even strong winds. It is also easily customizable and is lightweight in nature so the roof will not need extra support just to handle the weight.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
BUR, also called Tar and Gravel Roofs, consists of three overlapping layers of bitumen material, ply sheets, and one or more surfacing materials. The ply sheets are unique fabrics that are reinforced with fiberglass or organic materials, while the surfacing materials (gravel) form the top layer of the roof.
The biggest advantage of BUR is perhaps its affordability. It is one of the cheapest flat roofing systems types available in the market nowadays. Gravel is also naturally fire-retardant, thus, the roof offers a high level of fire resistance.
Centrik Roofing Knows these 5 Flat Roofing Systems Types!
Centrik Roofing excels in a range of commercial flat roofing solutions including EPDM, MBR, TPO, PVC, and BUR. Whether your commercial property needs one of these flat roof systems or you have an apartment building or other structure with a traditional sloped roof, we’ll do the job right. Our expertise and years of experience got you covered. Contact us today and we’ll give you a free onsite estimate!
