Flat Roofs and Shingles
At Total Exteriors we repair and replace all types of Commercial Roofing systems.
Flat roofs aren’t completely ‘bubble-level’ flat. They work in much the same way as a gutter system, angled slightly or pitched a couple of degrees, so that water flows into a downspout. Even so, flat roofing materials need to be able to absorb the brunt of the weather and to withstand ponding hail and water or snow and ice until it melts.
A roof’s main job is to create a barrier of protection between the building below and the atmosphere above. At Total Exteriors we have understand that and have the experience to deal with all types of roofing systems, such as:
Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen is a multi-ply roofing material. A base layer is mechanically attached to the roof deck with plates or bars. A ply overlap is then sealed to the base layer with a permanent adhesive. Finally a granule top surface is applied to provide aesthetic and energy efficient properties.
Built Up Roofing (BUR)
Most often referred to as tar & gravel roofs, BUR is just that. Built up roofing can include up to four plies or more consisting of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt, coal tar, or other adhesive) with a topping aggregate layer of gravel or other materials. Built up roofs have been in use for over 100 years with their biggest advantage being the ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. Membrane roofs are durable… in a sense, but a gravel coating can withstand heavy collisions. There is of course the added weight requiring reinforcement to the supporting structure.
EPDM
Commonly known in the industry as a rubber roof. While not common in Alberta we occasionally do come across them.
PVC Single
Ply MembranePVC membranes are a single layer of thermoplastic material. PVC roofs are especially strong and durable, featuring a minimum breaking point of 300 pounds per inch. Seams are heat-welded (hot air welded) to form a watertight bond. The welded seams are actually stronger than the material itself! Most PVC membranes, especially white-coloured ones are very energy efficient, because they reflect the sun’s energy instead of absorbing it. The PVC membranes often come with lifetime warranties.
TPO
Is another single-ply roofing membrane that chemically bonds rubber, ethylene, and propylene as well as numerous filler materials. TPO roofs have been growing in popularity ever since their introduction over 20 years ago. TPO is said to offer the best of both EPDM and PVC in one package. The material is closer to a rubber roof in cost, but also features welded seems for durability like PVC membranes.
Silicon Spray
An example of a protective coating that is installed on a roof silicon spray. The biggest advantage of a spray on roof is foregoing any seams like you have with membranes. Many would assume that spraying on a roof material would be much less expensive than applying a physical material, but in reality the silicon covering is one of the most expensive roofing procedures.
Materials Life-Span
The life span of your flat roof depends on a lot of different factors starting with proper installation. In Alberta we have rapid weather changes that often see Spring, Summer, and Winter conditions in the same week. This means exterior material will be put under more stress which can reduce its life span. A roof that is accessed a lot will also wear down faster.
Contact Total Exteriors today to discuss your options for dealing with issues regarding the flat roof system on your Commercial property.