Best Material For RESIDENTIAL Flat Roofs

​Residential and commercial buildings are frequently associated with flat roofing. You'll notice how prevalent low slope roofing is when you visit business districts or establishments. As regards residential buildings, pitched roofs are the norm to attain a desired homey look. The times, however, have changed. Residential Oshkosh Roofing has changed in the sense that people are no longer limited to the traditional options. Some homeowners opt for a residential flat roof to make their homes more modern. If you want to build a non-traditional roof, we can assist you in determining the best material for a flat roof residential property.

​Before we go over the materials, let's go over why it's a good idea to build a low-slope roof for your house.

The Benefits of a Residential Flat Roof

​Flat roofing may appear flat with a large surface area at first glance. Even if the surface appears flat, there are pitches and shed water to drain and slight slopes. Flat roofs have distinct characteristics that make them an excellent choice for commercial and residential applications. Examine their benefits to see what they have to offer.

Saving Space

​A flat roof can be installed in even the smallest structures due to its compact design. For example, a flat roof can adapt to even the most difficult areas if you want to expand your home. It's also great for garages, dormers, porches, and other things.

​Flat roofs can also provide additional space in this regard. Consider an extra outdoor space that you could turn into something more useful. It can be transformed into a penthouse for private events, a garden area, and so on.

Affordable

​Why is it such a high priority for business owners? You guessed it correctly! Flat roofing is an excellent choice for your home because of its affordability. It is cost-effective because the materials and labor are generally less expensive than pitched roofing.

Simple and Quick Installation

​In terms of installation, it is also quicker and simpler. Compared to other roofing systems, the best material for flat roof residential construction is more lightweight. As a result, it is much more manageable and straightforward to deal with. This has an impact on labor costs as well. As we explained in the previous point, it all boils down to lower costs.

Easy Maintenance

​Consider how difficult it is to gain access to a pitched roof. It's a risky move that could backfire. Working on a flat roof is easier because it has a surface that professional roofers can walk on. Repair and maintenance are also safer and faster as a result of this.

The Best Roof Material for Residential Flat Roofs

​We're curious about the best flat roof material for a residential home. The first step is to figure out what your options are. Learn about the benefits of flat roofing materials as well as the drawbacks that come with them. Then it would be best if you determined whether the material's performance is compatible with your priorities as a homeowner. It isn't a question of which option is the best. Rather, you should look for the best fit for your long-term goals and preferences.

​To begin, we've compiled a list of the most common residential flat roofing systems.

​Metal Roofing

​Metal is at the top of the list because it is one of the most widely used flat roof materials. When it comes to durability and longevity, it has a proven track record. If properly maintained, this can last for up to 50 years. Metal is also energy efficient because it effectively reflects solar heat. As a result, it assists homeowners in reducing their electricity consumption. For both you and the environment, this is a win-win situation.

​Steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper are among the metal options available to homeowners. The main difference is the price, but they are all lightweight materials. Metal can resist water, punctures, fire, and other extreme weather conditions. It can also be very stylish, depending on the theme you choose.

Aside from the cost, another disadvantage is that it is prone to rust. You can get coatings from the Best Roofing Contractor Oshkosh has to offer to protect it from rust and other elements.

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Rubber Roofing

In technical terms, rubber is also known as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). It's a synthetic waterproof material built from recycled rubber and lined together, making it an environmentally friendly option. Other advantages include resistance to severe weather conditions, affordability, durability, and flexibility.

Homeowners considering rubber flooring should keep an eye out for leaks. The key to avoiding premature damage is to schedule regular inspections and maintenance.

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Built-up Roof

​A built-up roof (BUR) is tar and gravel in its most basic form. It is extremely long-lasting and durable. Proper installation and regular maintenance can last up to 40 years. While the tar is waterproof and extremely durable, it may shrink over time due to external factors such as sun exposure. Because of its weight and composition, it can be more difficult to install than lighter materials.

Modified Bitumen

​This single-ply material is strong and long-lasting. It's also a little more difficult to install because it's rolled onto the surface and secured with a blowtorch. Modified bitumen, on the other hand, is weather-resistant and simple to repair. Damages can shorten their lifespan, so maintenance is also important.

Thermoplastic Membranes

​The most common thermoplastic membranes used in the construction of a residential flat roof are:

​Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is fire and ultraviolet ray-resistant. PVC is known for its durability and water resistance. It is reinforced with polyester or fiberglass. It is, however, potentially harmful to the environment because it is made from chemicals.

​Unlike PVC, thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) does not contain chlorine, making it less harmful to the environment. It can resist flame and reflect UV rays in the same way that PVC can. It can effectively prevent moisture penetration when properly installed. Because TPO is lightweight, it is also extremely durable and simple to install.

Mastic Asphalt 

This was one of the first flat roofing systems to hit the market. People have been doing so for hundreds of years. As a result, it has been proven to be durable and long-lasting.

Asphalt is a difficult material to work with. Workers construct reinforced joints to hold the material in place while it is installed. Initially, it may appear to be a low-cost option, but labor costs may rise

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Final Thoughts

​These are your choices for the best flat roof material for a residential home. They are all extremely durable, as you may have noticed. Things may become perplexing at this point. Keep in mind, however, that several other factors must be considered. It would be best if you ascertained the costs. It would be best to consider whether the material would work with your design preferences. How's the weather in your neck of the woods? Will this material be able to withstand the most extreme weather conditions?

​Because there are so many variables to consider when choosing the best flat roof residential material, you'll need professional assistance.

​Get in touch with us today if you have any questions or want to see your dream home come to life. Full Draw Construction is always willing to lend a hand. Receive a free estimate by calling 920-279-9528.