Types of Flat Roofs and Repairs Associated With Them
When you go to work, you may not spend a lot of time thinking about the roof of your commercial property. Your business and building may be a source of pride, but often times the most important structural elements go unnoticed.
Your flat roof protects your business from the elements and allows you to work your magic! However, repairing and maintaining your flat roof is integral for prolonging the lifespan of your roof and building. It’s important to understand the type of flat roof you have and what repairs are associated with it in order to remain proactive in maintaining your roof.
The Most Common Types of Flat Roofs
Once you understand the repairs associated with your specific type of flat roof, it becomes easier to keep an eye out for any potential problems. Here are the most common types of flat roofs and the problems that may arise with them.
- Type 1: Bitumen Torch Down Rubber Roof. The most common type of flat roof is a rubber roof or bitumen. Bitumen is actually a form of asphalt with additives to help stabilize the structure of your flat roof.
Potential Problems: The seams on rubber flat roofs can start to pull away over time and will need to be adjusted through regular maintenance. Rubber roofs are also prone to cracks and leaks that need immediate repair.
- Type 2: Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roof. SPF roofs are constructed by spraying two-component liquid that forms the base of your flat roof. Materials used for SPF roofs can include acrylic, rubber, or silicone.
Potential Problems: Severe weather like hail or ice can cause punctures and cracks on your SPF roof. These punctures or cracks need to be repaired immediately as they can cause leakage or damage the structure of your roof.
- Type 3: Hot Tar and Gravel Roof. This common style of flat roof is made from three to five layers of asphalt based sheets, hot tar, and roofing felt. Gravel is then poured on the surface to keep the Sun’s heat off and protect your flat roof from deterioration and damage.
Potential Problems: As with any flat roof, hot tar and gravel flat roofs run the risk of cracks or leakage. However, the issue with hot tar and gravel flat roofs is locating the source of the problem due to gravel obstructing the damaged area. With this type of flat roof, it’s important to have maintenance performed by professionals who know how to quickly locate the source of the problem and correct it.
Getting Setup with Regular Maintenance and Repairs
Once you have an understanding of the type of flat roof on your commercial building, you’ll be able to better understand the repairs that you may need down the line. It’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance and repairs to ensure that your building stays in prime shape for you to do what you do best: growing your business! If you have a flat roof even if the type is not listed above and need any repairs done, give us a call today at (586) 777-1477!
