If you have a flat roof and have noticed leaks or any other material failure, it may be time for a new flat roof installation. This is a large investment for any homeowner, and choosing the roofing system that’s right for you may even feel overwhelming. But have no fear, Elite Exteriors is here to help!
When it comes to replacing a flat roof, there are a few things that you need to know. And we believe that an educated and informed homeowner is a happy one, who makes the best decisions when it comes to their roofing needs. In this article, we will discuss flat roof installation, including four important things to know when it comes to replacing your flat roof.
Table of Contents
– Flat Roof Installation
– Roofing Materials
– Cost
– Longevity
– Installation
Flat Roof Installation
If you’re in the market for a flat roof installation, you will want to consider a membrane roof system. A membrane roof system is made out of sheets of rolled, synthetic, water-repellent membrane. The sheets come in widths of either 5 feet, 10 feet, or 20 feet.
The advantages of membrane roofing include the cost, and its cooling and water-proofing capabilities. This is crucial for flat roofs, as they easily collect rainwater, and this material prevents said water from entering your home.
There are three types of membrane roof systems to consider including EPDM, TPO, and PVC, which we will discuss below.
Roofing Materials
When it comes to flat roof installations, the first membrane roof system we will go over is EPDM, which stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. This is a synthetic rubber membrane that comes in black, and is most commonly used in medical and other commercial facilities.
EPDM is recommended for a roof over a garage, as well as any other non-living area where you can see the roof from a window. This is because its black color absorbs more heat, and doesn’t look as dirty as a white membrane roof over time.
The second type of membrane roof system is TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin. This is a single-ply, white membrane roof system that reflects heat, and is seen in both commercial and residential roofing projects.
We recommend this type of roofing if you have a flat roof, or a low-slope dormer over a bedroom. TPO is a great option in this situation, as it can help to keep the room beneath it cooler. As opposed to EPDM, we do not recommend installing this in a place where it can be seen from a window. This is because the white membrane will look and become a lot dirtier in a shorter amount of time.
Last but not least is PVC, or polyvinyl chloride membrane roof systems. This is a single-ply, white membrane which is used in both commercial and residential roofing. It’s a bit more flexible, and has been around longer than TPO.
Similar to TPO, we recommend PVC for a flat roof over a living space where the area cannot be seen from a window. This is because PVC is also white in color, can get dirty over time, and has cooling capabilities.
Cost
If you’re in the market for a flat roof installation, the first thing on your mind is probably cost. There are many factors that affect the cost of a flat roof installation, from the size of your roof to its accessibility. And while it’s impossible to give an exact quote without a roof inspection, we can give you a general idea for budgeting.
You can expect a flat roof installation to cost around $14.00-$17.00 per square foot for a smaller roof, and about $12.00 per square foot for a larger project. As previously mentioned, a lot of factors go into the cost of a new roof, but there are two things that will help determine where you fall on the above scale.
The first factor that impacts the cost of membrane roofing is the insulation that goes underneath it. Using insulation that’s thick enough to insulate an entire building will cost more than using fabric insulation. The second factor is the size of your roof. For a smaller flat roof installation, the cost per square foot will be higher, while larger flat roof installations will cost less.
Longevity
When it comes to flat roof installations, you want to make an investment that will stand the test of time. So, let’s discuss just how long your membrane roofing system should last.
TPO and PVC roofing systems are very similar, and as long as they are installed properly, they should last around 25 years. EPDM roofing, however, is a bit more durable, and you can expect to get about 25 to 30 years out of it.
Installation
When it comes to flat roof installation, one of the most important things you need to consider is the installer. Hiring a reputable roofing contractor plays a huge role in every aspect of your roof, from longevity to aesthetic appeal.
This is why we highly suggest working with a vetted contractor who has experience installing flat roofs. Choosing the wrong contractor could put your new roof investment at risk, and cost you more money in the long run.
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Elite Exteriors is the Southeast’s premier resource for unparalleled service, craftsmanship and quality. And it’s all backed by an unprecedented lifetime labor and materials warranty! Not only that, we offer NO-COST initial consultations and inspections. For more information, give us a call today at 470-350-3024, or click here to fill out an online form.