What Is the Best Roofing Material for a Flat Roof?

Did you know the average cost for heating a home is well over $1000 per year, across the US? Energy consumption is going through the roof, quite literally. As most of our temperature control is regulated by the roof in our building, do you know which is the best for your property?

We can help with our pick of the best ones for your return on investment. Read on as we discuss the best roofing material for a flat roof. 

PVC

PVC is not the cheapest option for a roof. However, its price comes with a lot of added benefits. The biggest is that they are extremely durable and one of the longest-lasting roof materials. 

They are highly resistant to the elements, being fireproof and wind-resistant. In addition, due to their chemical makeup, they are water-resistant and rarely prone to leaks. 

Finally, it is available in a range of colors. If you choose white, it can reflect much of the heat from direct sunlight. This keeps your building cooler, cutting down on energy consumption through air conditioner usage. 

TPO

TPO roofing has many of the same benefits as PVC. However, it is cheaper to install meaning it can lower the cost of roofing materials and replacement. The coatings of a TPO roof are white, meaning they reflect heat, keeping energy costs down. 

Maintenance of these roof types is also minimal. As the membrane is laminated, fungus and algae find it hard to grow on the surface. You will not need to pressure wash or clean it. 

Finally, TPO is one of the best roofing materials for old structures. It is extremely lightweight and can be applied to almost any structure. 

Built up Roofing

Built up roofing, also known as BUR, is made from layers of materials bonded by tar. On top of this sits a layer of asphalt, providing stability from a number of roofing materials built on top of one another. 

Due to this stability, you don’t have to worry about falling branches or heavy weather. The multiple layers are enough to hold the roof against most eventualities. 

With this comes longevity. The roof is very unlikely to catch fire, and if you have regular footfall or machinery on the roof it will hold up. All you need are a few maintenance checks from a roof repair service and it could last around 25 years. 

EPDM Rubber

EPDM rubber works in a similar way to built-up roofing, with different layers. However, these are made from synthetic rubbers on a steel deck. The main advantage is that it can last twice as long, almost fifty years depending on the conditions. 

It installs easily and is very easy to repair. In addition, it is a lot cheaper than many other roof systems to install. 

Speak to a Professional About the Best Roofing Material for a Flat Roof

Now that you know the best roofing material for a flat roof, speak to a professional. They will be able to advise the best options based on your budget and property type. Check local reviews and listings for reputable suppliers. 

If you enjoyed this article, we have many more to help. With everything from consumer advice to DIY tips, we can help you build the perfect property!