Flat Roofing Comes in Many Varieties, So Learn the Common Types

There are a few types of flat roofing that you can choose from when replacing this part of your home. Though the professional you are working with should help you decide on the best one for your house, you are encouraged to have an idea of the kinds available before meeting with anyone. Learning a bit about the materials commonly used can help the project run quickly and smoothly, so get to know the most common kinds.

Among the most popular types of flat roofing is the built-up kind, often called BUR. it gets its name from the fact that it is comprised of several layers of materials, with asphalt or tar being some of the most common substances used. When tar is used, it is usually in the form of paper that is dipped in this liquid, which is then spread across the top of a structure. When asphalt is used, it is usually rolled up or stuck to paper. Either way, this type of flat roofing material is usually then covered with a thin layer of gravel so that it does not get damaged over time by sunlight constantly beaming down on the surface.

On the other hand, single-ply flat roofing contains just one layer of material, not several, and is used on more structures than the other materials available. This type of roof is quite thin, and is usually attached to the top of the house or building with either glue or durable fasteners. A variety of materials may be used in this kind of roof, but one of the most popular is rubber since it is easy to install and cheap to buy. It does have some competition with other types of single-ply roofs, though, because it requires some maintenance to continue looking nice after about a decade. Talk to the company you choose for this task to determine the best option for you.

The final kind of flat roofing available to you is the type that goes on as liquid and eventually hardens. You can choose between the kind you spray on and the kind you paint on. Spray foam roofs need to be sprayed to the surface, after which you can line the material with urethane or acrylic, followed by some gravel to protect it from the sun. This option provides you with insulation, but you have to continually check the area for leaks. You may choose to paint on the surface, instead, which is only an option if you are just trying to increase the lifespan of your current roof. You can get a waterproof roof coating that will protect the top of your house from some wear and tear, but you should first make sure the area is clean and smooth.

If you have questions about the pros and cons of these options, you should talk to the company doing the installation. Find out which choice is the best one for you, keeping in mind the price, durability, and maintenance levels required over the next several years.