Vertex Roofing Contractors offer residential TPO and commercial flat roof installation and repair to the Greater Salt Lake area. Our Master Certified roofers are licensed and fully insured - plus, we offer a satisfaction guarantee. No matter the season, rigid insulation for your flat roof can protect your roof and home from weather-related damage, with the added benefit of helping to keep your home or business cooler in summer and warmer throughout the winter months. Call Vertex Roofing Contractors at 801-934-1528 for a free flat roofing estimate today!
 
A flat roof as the name implies, it’s a roof that is flat in design, as opposed to a roof that is built at an angle or has a peak on it. However, within the category of flat roofs, there are actually four different types to choose from. So before you choose a roof from a company like Vertex Roofing Contractors, know what is out there on the market.
 

4 Types of Flat Roofing

  • Rubber Membrane Flat Roof

    A rubber membrane flat roof, covered in ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM, is a surface that will remind you of a very smooth rubber tire. However, it is specially designed to be unharmed from intense, direct sunlight. There are a number of ways to attach EPDM to a roof: glue, various types of fasteners or stone ballast.

  • TPO Flat Roof

    Thermoplastic Polyolefin, or TPO, is a membrane that can be unrolled and heat welded together. By doing this, they provide a bond that is four times stronger than EPDM roof.

  • Modified Bitumen

    This rolled roof is single-ply and is similar to what is known as an ice and water shield. They used to have to be applied with an adhesive that had to be heated with a torch while the material was unfurled on the roof itself. Newer types of modified bitumen are peel and stick, making them easier to apply, and safer.

  • Built-Up Roof

    Also known a BUR, this is the traditional flat roof, constructed out of hot tar and gravel. Three or more layers are often put together and once used tar paper but now use more durable fiberglass membranes when built new. We often recommend converting these roofs to a more durable rubber roof.

Pros and Cons of Flat Roofs

Each of the aforementioned types of roofs has its own pros and cons. These are listed below, so you can make a more informed decision.
 

Rubber Membrane Flat Roof

  • Pros: Easy to install for the average homeowner and these roofs are easy to patch if and when a leak forms
  • Cons: The material itself is usually black, so while it is designed to be unharmed by sunlight, it still absorbs a ton of heat during days of direct sunlight and in the summer months. If you want it made from a lighter material, expect to add around thirty percent to the overall cost. This flat roof is also quite vulnerable to punctures.

TPO Flat Roof

  • Pros: The TPO is widely considered the strongest bonded roof out there on the market today, four times stronger than EPDM. This means you’re far less likely to have a leak if it is installed correctly, and it is tough to puncture.
  • Cons: TPO flat roofs cost more than other options.

Modified Bitumen

  • Pros: It’s easy to install because most modified bitumen is peel and stick. It is reasonably priced and has a light-colored surface which reflects light and saves you money on utility bills.
  • Cons: The old fashioned installation method of torch down is incredibly dangerous to you and the house itself. It’s also not as tough as the rubber membraned roofs out there.

Built-Up Roof

  • Pros: Incredibly inexpensive, and the gravel helps to protect against fires. It also looks pretty good with most houses.
  • Cons: It’s heavy, tough to install and smells bad during installation. When leaks do occur, they can be incredibly difficult to find due to the design.

Trust Vertex Roofing Contractors Residential Flat Roof Installation in Utah

Regardless of whatever flat roof you choose, Vertex Roofing Contractors can install it for you in commercial and residential roofing settings alike. Our services aren’t limited to flat roofs, either; our certified specialists are experts at replacements, repairs, and inspections, as well. Contact us here, or call (801) 639-0477 for a free consultation today!
 

Download a PDF Version of This Roofing Guide Here