Flat roofs are very common for commercial buildings, factories, and residential homes. Flat roofs can accommodate exhaust fans, chimneys, and other rooftop necessities and can be observed throughout the world from warm climates to cold and everywhere in between; you can find flat rooftops everywhere once you think to look for them!
It is important when considering a flat rooftop that you keep in mind the climate of the area. If it is a hot or a cold climate, you should ask yourself (or your local roofing experts) what type of roof or weatherproof membrane is appropriate? Flat top roofs are practical because they incorporate weatherproof membrane, which does a great job of protecting your roof and your home from the harsher elements. It is almost always an improvement over shingles, so if you can find a reliable roofing company who specializes in flat roofs to perform your installation, then you can say goodbye to your roof problems for the foreseeable future.
There are a few common types of flat roof membranes that can be considered: The first one is BUR or Build up Roof, where plywood is used with asphalt; gravel can be used to surface the roof. This is the layering approach in which the materials are stacked on top of one another to keep your home protected from the elements. This is an inexpensive method and is vulnerable to wind and rain damage – BUR roofs require regular maintenance checks. The second way to protect a flat roof is the modified Bitumen procedure, in which a roll of synthetic material reinforced by polymers is rolled on to the roof and hot torched in some cases for it to stick securely. This is a one-layer approach involving melting and bonding, but other layers can be added for seamless protection and weatherproofing the roof. This has a quick installation process but can be very dangerous if you have an inexperienced roofer.
The third way is a PVC membrane system, which is also a one-layer approach. PVC is made up of a thermoplastic material which is hot welded at the seams, giving it very strong protection against the elements. It is strong and durable enough to withstand the climate change of rain, wind, sun, and cold. They are reflective, so they reflect the sunlight and keep buildings cool as an added bonus, but not so great for cold climates. Another problem with this system is that it does release toxins into the environment, making it less than ideal for environmentalists.
The last common method is the EPDM or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, which is a rubber compound. This is very similar to the PVC system, as it is also a single layer which is made up of recycled rubber so it is environmentally friendly and most commonly used in residential areas. EPDM requires the seams be connected properly for maximum durability and strength, which insulates the roof for cooler interior temperatures in the summer and warmer in the winter. EPDM works well in climates that experience the extremes of all four seasons, places like Toronto, New York or Chicago would be a good match.