What is the best flat roof material for my home?
With regards to the intense weather here in Houston Texas, many homeowners ask themselves the question as to what would be the appropriate material for my flat roof? Flat roofs are a different kind of ballgame compared to your traditional roofs, since they require more attention and can be more tedious to work with.
Down below we will discuss the different options that you as a homeowner have.
Table of Contents
Our Disclaimer
There is not one flat roof system that is the “better option” for everyone . Flat roof systems vary and we as a company want to personalize your flat roof system depending on your situation.
Your decision as to what flat roof material you use is going to be based of these questions.
- What is your budget?
- What is the style of your home?
- What do you like as a homeowner?
- What does your decking look like?
Modified Torch
What is Modified Torch?
- Modified torch is a rolled membrane roofing system primarily made of asphalt. The construction resembles shingles but in a more flexible form and have an additional waterproof coating applied.
There are two different types of applications
- OPEN FLAME
Attached by melting the asphalt onto the roof (most secured option)
2. PEEL AND STICK
Attached simply the way it hears by peeling and sticking it onto the roof.
We as a company do not recommend the peel and stick method as it tends to leave many open seams.
TPO
What is TPO?
- (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is a single-ply membrane used in both commercial and residential roofing.
PROS
Cost Effective – TPO roofs can come in at a more budget-friendly install
Energy Savings – TPO membrane comes in white, that reflects most of the intense Texas sunlight throughout the day. Keeping your building cooler.
What does the application process look like for TPO?
There are 2 most common applications
1. MECHANICALLY ATTACHED
The TPO material is applied by properly using fasteners to secure it down to the decking.
2. ADHESIVE
The TPO material is applied by using an adhesive like substance to attach the TPO onto the decking.
TPO does great with wind ratings.
TPO does very well as it is most found on your hotels, strip centers, office buildings and commercial/ residential buildings.
PVC
What is PVC?
- (Polyvinyl Chloride) is also a single-ply membrane used in both commercial and residential roofing.
What does the application process look like for PVC?
PVC has a similar application process to TPO
1. MECHANICALLY ATTACHED
The TPO material is applied by properly using fasteners to secure it down to the decking.
2. ADHESIVE
The TPO material is applied by using an adhesive like substance to attach the TPO onto the decking
A great system, however we most commonly see TPO over PVC in the Houston Area.
You can see PVC in many office buildings as well as other commercial/residential properties.
Seamless metal
What is seamless metal?
- Is a series of metal panels that are locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically.
PROS
What does the application process look like for Seamless Metal?
Seamless metal can only be attached for one way
Most commonly than not we do not see seamless metal roofs a whole lot in the Houston area.
Seamless metal roofs are most commonly installed in new construction homes rather than a roof replacement/repair.
What is the biggest problem when it comes to my flat roof having leaks?
INSTALLATION!!!!
Most often that not many flat roofs have leaks or other issues due to poor installation hurting the lifespan of these roofs.
When looking at hiring a contractor to fix your roof make sure they specialize in flat roofs as they tend to be more difficult, tedious and acquire more experience to work with.
- Down below is a video of a poorly installed flat roof that leads to more headaches, money and waste of time for you as a homeowner.
