Flat Roofing
Flat Roofing Dallas, TX
Serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
A flat roofing system is described as a roof that is almost completely level. However, no roof can be completely level as it wouldn’t allow rainwater to drain off causing all kinds of problems. Most flat roofs have a slight pitch of at least 1.19 degrees. Flat roofs are very common in commercial buildings and are common for residential buildings in warm climates or home extensions like garages and outbuildings. A flat roof is generally more cost-effective in warm climates than pitched roof buildings because it helps the inside temperature of the building to remain stable.
Excellent choice for commercial roofing & modern buildings
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Types of Flat Roofing
There are several different types of flat roofing systems. We will go over the most common ones in the sections below, detailing what they are, their advantages, and their disadvantages. This should help you make the right decision for your particular project. The most common applications for flat roofing are in commercial and industrial buildings, but some residential projects also utilize flat roofs. If you’re not sure which type is right for you and you’d like to talk to an expert, give us a call at (469)217-3916 for a free consultation!
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Built up roof membranes, or BUR, are very common in industrial buildings. They are also commonly known as ¨tar and gravel¨ roofs. The surface of the roof is covered in layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics to create the finished weather proof membrane. The number of plies, or layers, can differ. These fabrics can be applied directly to the roof deck or the insulation. The most common bitumen used is asphalt, coal tar, or cold-applied adhesive. Once the fabrics and bitumen are applied, surfacing is laid in over the top. Possible surfacings include gravel, slag, or mineral granules, glass fiber cap sheets, hot asphalt, aluminum coatings, or elastomeric coatings.
Complete seal: there are no seams that need to be heat-welded or glued down
Lifespan: you can expect 5 years per layer, meaning you can easily get 20-years out of your BUR system
Resistant to UV: the natural rock covering acts as the perfect barrier to protect the roof’s underlayers from destructive UV radiation
Low maintenance: BUR require little to no maintenance throughout its life span
Fire resistance: Falling ashes or sparks will not find purchase on your roof preventing it from catching fire
Modified Bitumen Roofing (MBR)
Modified Bitumen roofing systems, or MBR roofing, is similar to standard BUR other than that modifiers are added to the asphalt and the bitumen is reinforced with fiberglass or polyester fiber matting to make the roof stronger and more durable. The two most common types of MBR are SBS (styrene-butadiene-syrene) and APP (attactic polypropylene). SBS is used to increase the flexibility of the roof membrane and gives it better expansion and contraction abilities. While APP is used to increase the lifespan and ageability of the membrane. Common installation methods are the torch method, heated asphalts, or cold adhesives.
Self-adhering: modified bitumen technology has advanced so that there is little to no risk of heat-related accidents during installation
Low VOC components: the materials used have low harmful toxins making installation and use of the space safer
Reduced energy bills: MBR is light in color and reflects heat, meaning it won’t absorb or retain heat keeping the internal temperature stable regardless of the weather
Recyclable: MBR materials are recyclable, when it comes time to redo the roof, your old materials can be reused on other future projects
Cold weather performance: MBR has great performance in hot and cold weather, the materials will remain flexible and resist cracking and leaking even in freezing temperatures
Membrane (Single-ply) Roofing
Membrane single-ply roofing can utilize a variety of different materials, but their main characteristic is that they are designed to be installed in one single layer. Their most defining qualities are that they are extremely flexible and resistant to UV radiation. The single-ply is usually installed in a black or white finish and then applied directly over the roof’s insulation material. Single-ply membranes generally come in two types: Thermosets and Thermoplastics. Thermosets are made from synthetic rubber polymers while Thermoplastics are plastics based. Both types are quick and easy to install, but cannot be used in conjunction with other roofing systems.
Impervious to dramatic changes in weather: remains flexible and crack-resistant regardless of dramatic temperature changes
Resistant to chemical damage: chemical storage or spillage will not affect this roofing type
Customizable grade: you can choose the desired grade of protection you want for your roof depending on your particular climate and needs
Increased energy savings: this roofing type has excellent reflective properties allowing the internal temperature of the building to remain constant
Low cost: because it is so easy to install, labor costs are lower than other more labor-intensive roofing options
Need help weighing your options? Talk to our flat roof specialists today!
Give us a call and we’ll help steer you in the right direction. We’d love to give you a free inspection.
Why Choose Dallas Elite Metal Roofing
Results You Can Trust
We have over 15 years of experience satisfying customers through our excellent roofing services. Each and every one of our expert craftsmen are versed in tried and true practices as well as all the latest advances in roofing technology. We can give you great advice to guide you through your roof repair, roof replacement, or new roof installation. With us, the process is simple and hassle-free and you will be thrilled with the final result. High quality work and great customer service are our top values as a company. If you’d like to get started on your next flat roofing project, give us a call for a free consultation!