When it comes to roof shape, we have a choice as a householder whether to go for a flat or sloped roof. There are advantages and disadvantages to both that Mars Restoration can explain to you. The good news, if you are considering a flat roof, is that it will be less expensive to construct because of the reduced areas that are involved. There will also be a shorter construction period if you want your roof sooner. It will provide you with more access to it. You can use it as an extra space to relax and enjoy views in the summer.

So, given that we may want to walk on our flat roof, what are the best materials to use?

Materials for Roof Regularly Walked On

Many flat roofs such as balconies or roof terraces will be regularly walked on and so require substantial materials. You will need to let your roofer know if that is what you are planning to do, so that they can make it safe for you and your family. Materials offered by roofing contractors old saybrook ct (or whever you may live) will include porous concrete, bitumen, rubber, plastic, and fibre cement.

With strength established, there are many benefits of being able to walk on top of your roof. One is, of course, to obtain a nice view. Another might include the desire to sunbathe or enjoy outdoor activities where there is less of a garden to enjoy them. It depends on where your home is situated with how useful the extra space a flat roof provides will prove.

Longest Lasting Roofing Material

EPDM provides a good long-term solution for flat roofs because it offers longevity. EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer and is a kind of rubber designed to withstand the most extreme of weather conditions one might face as a homeowner. EPDM membranes will, over time, remain stable and so can give life expectancies of over 50 years for those looking to invest in this kind of roofing technology.

A point to mention is that EPDM compounds have very low water absorption rates, so this is good for keeping the inside of your home dry, but you will need to keep an eye on water pooling. 

An advantage of EPDM is that its flat rubber can be painted on. This must be done correctly, however, making sure that the rubber membrane is clear of debris and clean before proceeding.

In terms of cost, EPDM has been reported on average to be between $3.50 and $7.50 per square foot. TPO roofing membranes are more expensive than EPDM, but both will perform well where a thicker membrane is invested in.

Popular Choice for Flat Roofs

As another material available for flat roofs, we have PVC roofing to choose from. This has become very much the preferred choice despite it being more expensive than single-ply commercial roofing materials. Attached to the price, though, is a range of benefits that your local roofer can advise you about, and you can search online or learn more here to see how and where they can help you.

So, bearing in mind the above, it is encouraging that there are materials on the market that will offer strength and longevity when it comes to constructing a flat roof. It certainly turns the idea of having a flat roof into a very real possibility and provides an excellent roofing solution for many situations. 

After all, many activities can be enjoyed on top of a flat roof that would not be able to happen if the roof was sloped. It is certainly safer to be on top of a flat roof compared to adjusting the ariel on top of one that is sloped. Many an accident has occurred that way. So, it is worth contacting a professional roofer to discuss your options when it comes to installing or continuing to maintain your flat roof.