Choosing
the Right Roof System
In flat and low sloped roofs, there are several questions
that need to be answered to choose the best roof for
you, such as slope and drainage, size and cost.
Slope and
Drainage
Positive drainage is very important. Water standing
on a roof will put additional weight on the building.
Water sitting on a roof can cause the roof to age
and eventually fail. A slope can be added to a flat
roof with tapered insulation.
Traffic
Roof traffic can be a factor if air conditioners are
on the roof and need to be services or repaired. Decks
are to be installed over the roof or doorway access
is required.
Size
Size is a factor because roofs expand and contract
in temperature changes. Expansion joints may need
to be added to relieve the pressure.
Cost
Whether it’s a repair or full replacement of
the roof, a roof costs so much each year to own. This
cost is spread over the life of a new roof versus
the cost of a repair which lasts only a few years.
Also included in a reroof is the upgrade of insulation
which would lower heating and cooling costs.
Built Up
Roofing
Built up roofing is made up of layers of hot asphalt
and tar paper (felt). Generally four layers is a standard
roof. Granulated flashing is installed around the
perimeter and on any roof opening (curbs). The roof
is flooded with hot asphalt and while still hot; gravel
is embedded to protect the felts from the sun and
walking traffic. This is generally a 20 year roof
system.
Single
Ply Roofing (Rubber)
This is manufactured in large rolls up to 50’
x 200’, which makes installation much faster
and more economical. It can be fastened in different
manners depending on the circumstances: gravel installed
over the rubber, metal bars (battens) fastened into
the roof or totally adhered with adhesive.
Modified
Roofing
This is the single ply system of asphalt base products.
The ply are manufactured at the plant and put together
on the job by heating and sealing with hot tar.
Contact
us for more information on the right roof system
for your building. Our skilled estimators will provide
you with a free estimate with options and recommendations
on the type of roofing solution that will fit your
needs.
