Compared to a traditional sloped roof, a flat roof looks and performs differently. Today, the availability of cutting-edge flat roof systems offers a wide range of distinct pros and cons, longevity, and price. Times have changed, and you must look for roofing systems that work for you and your business. For reliable solutions, check out our commercial roofing services.

Generally, a classic flat roof can be at almost level, or it may have a slight pitch of three to 12 inches or less.

Most of the time, flat roofs don’t last long or are not as durable as the sloped ones since they shed snow and rain a lot slower. However, new and advanced materials have been developed over the last few decades – allowing flat roofs to become long-lasting, energy-efficient, and competitive enough to keep up with traditional roofs in terms of longevity.

When it comes to commercial and industrial properties, flat roofing is the choice for its functionality. Moreover, a pitched roof is not necessary for that purpose. Plus, only flat roofs offer an added space, which is useful for building owners – more than its design, they are going for it due to its flexibility. With regular maintenance and inspections, flat roofs can be accessed by workers. Therefore, a low slope is the ideal roofing for commercial use.

However, familiarity with flat roofing is not enough. As business owners, you should know what suits your goals and plans.

As too many commercial roofing options can be confusing, making a mistake is possible – which you must avoid, or else, time and investments will be wasted, something that business owners cannot afford. To prevent it from happening, here are the commercial flat roof materials you must learn – divided into three main categories.

  • Built-up
  • Spray-on
  • Synthetic or Single-Ply Membranes

Built-up Roofing

Built-up roofing is made up of tar-saturated paper – or liquid tar – with gravel, asphalt, rolled asphalt, or modified bitumen. As the roof is installed, layers are added to make it more durable and long-lasting – that is why it’s “built-up.”

Pros
Cons
– Cheap materials and installation costs
– Low maintenance
– Resistant to foot traffic, UV rays, and punctures
– Leak source is difficult to locate
– Short service life (10-15 years)
– Costly repairs
– Poor energy efficiency
– Not environmentally friendly
– Lacks flexibility in cold temperatures
– Emit harmful fumes and vapors
– Hefty material

Spray-on Roofing

There are two main types of spray-on roofing:

  1. Spray foam insulation - sprayed directly onto the roof deck then coated with acrylic or urethane coatings.
  2. Roof coatings - typically installed on top of single-ply – they are modified or low slope metal roofs.
Pros
Cons
– Seamless installation
– SPF foam can conform to all roof shapes and sizes
– Offers good insulation and energy efficiency (high R-value)
– Minimal maintenance
– Can be applied on top of the existing roof
– Lasts up to 40 years if properly installed
– Very costly
– A complicated installation process
– More potential for system failure
– Can only be installed during specific weather conditions
– Usually specified for commercial buildings, not residential homes
– Emits harmful fumes during installation

Single-ply Roofing

Single-ply has only one layer of membrane, which is the surface for waterproofing and weather protection. Membranes range (in width) from six to 18 feet – the 10-feet ones are the most commonly used. Its average thickness ranges from 45 to 90 mil.

There are three popular types of Single-ply roofing:

  • EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
  • TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)

Nowadays, these three roofs are ideal for both commercial and residential construction. However, they differ in quality and longevity – each has unique formulations, durability specs, and costs. For expert installation, visit our commercial roofing page.

Pros
Cons
– Energy-efficient and solar reflective
– Some materials can be recycled
– Can last up to 30-40 years
– Systems with hot-air welded seams (PVC and TPO) are waterproof
– DIY installs and repairs are possible for EPDM rubber
– Resistant to inclement weather
– Can be used as a rooftop garden or patio
– Prone to leaks
– Exterior penetrations can cause leaks without proper flashing
– Requires expensive expert installation (PVC and TPO)
– Can be punctured by sharp objects
If you need a roofer in Toms River, New Jersey, to repair or replace your flat roof before the winter season comes, our team is more than willing to help you maintain your building – and show you the relevant alternatives this year! E-mail us today at info@allcountyonline.com.