In today’s world, you will come across flat roofs in residential areas and commercial buildings. However, it’s important to understand the lifespan and maintenance tips. So, continue reading to learn more about the parts of a flat roof and why they are essential for a roofing system. Our roofing services ensure proper installation, repair, and maintenance, helping to extend the roof’s life and durability.
1. Roofing Membrane
This is nothing but the outermost layer of the roof. Apart from being waterproof, the roof protects the indoor space from many elements. Here are the types of roof membranes.
- TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) – This type lasts for a long time and is energy efficient.
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) – This material is made from rubber and sustains inclement weather conditions.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Besides being extremely durable, these are chemical resistant. Hence, these are used while constructing industrial buildings.
As you can see, the roofing membrane prevents entry of water. It also protects the space against UV rays.
2. Insulation
Insulation is yet another part that regulates the temperature within a building. While proper insulation reduces heat dissipation during winter, it also maintains the temperature during summer. This eventually helps to improve energy efficiency. Among the insulation materials, you will come across spray foams and rigid foam boards. But, before you set up insulation, make sure it has a high R-value. This ensures saving energy in the long run.
3. Roof Deck
People refer to a base layer as a roof deck. This component offers a flat surface for the membrane’s installation. Most of the time, these are made from plywood, concrete or OSB. The deck further serves as a support for the roof. But, to maintain the structural integrity, the deck has to be sturdy.
4. Vapor Barrier
A vapor barrier serves the purpose of preventing moisture from entering into the insulation. This part has to be installed for flat roofs, as condensation can lead to damage. Moreover, the barrier also protects the insulation from becoming moist.
5. Flashing
Flashing is nothing but a thin material that’s made from metal. This material is usually placed around chimneys and vents. As it seals joints, it prevents entry of water from various points. So, it’s necessary to install flashing properly, to prevent leaks. These are useful when water drains down at a slow pace.
6. Roof Drains and Scuppers
Most of the time, flat roofs have roof drains and scuppers. These help in directing the water across the surface. Once installed properly, these direct the water through pipes along the roof’s surface. On the other hand, scuppers are openings that let the water flow down. So, if there’s efficient drainage, then it can prevent the consequences of stagnant water.
7. Parapet Walls
These are vertical barriers that are placed above the roof. These not only protect the roof from wind uplift but also support other materials. Mostly, such parts enhance the visual appeal of buildings.
8. Underlayment
Underlayment is a layer that protects the roof deck and membrane. Primarily, it serves as a layer and prevents the entry of water.
9. Roof Slope and Pitch
Even when the level is consistent for flat roofs, these have a slope. They are set at 1/4″ and 1/2″ per foot for proper drainage. While the slope directs water to the roof drains, they prevent accumulation of water.
10. Fascia and Soffit
- Fascia: This is known to be a board along the roof’s edge. While the fascia supports the gutter system, it also enhances the look.
- Soffit: The part is present beneath the fascia and offers ventilation. It also prevents the rafters from getting affected due to moisture.
Both fascia and soffit enhance the main functionality of the flat roof.
11. Gutters and Downspouts
The main function of gutters and downspouts is to direct water from the foundation. While these are not present on flat roofs, they have to be installed with care. You may have to follow an approach when there’s heavy rainfall most of the time.
Common Materials Used in Flat Roofing Systems
BUR (Built-Up Roof)
BUR has many layers of bitumen and felt. It is considered to be the oldest roofing system and is durable in nature.
Modified Bitumen
Modified Bitumen is a material that is composed of asphalt. In addition to enhancing flexibility, it also increases durability. Experts follow a torch-down method while installing the roof.
Single-Ply Roofing (TPO, PVC, EPDM)
As single-ply membranes are easier to install, these are among the popular choices. People also prefer setting up this roofing because they are energy efficient.
16 Flat Roof Terms You Need To Know
Now, let’s check out the terms related to flat roofs. These can help you maintain and repair the roof in the most effective way. Once you’re aware of the terms, you can interact with the contractor with ease. So, let’s check the terms one after the other.
1. Aggregate
Aggregate refers to a layer of small stones or gravel. These offer protection on flat roofs. They also protect the underlying roofing materials from things. Besides, people inside the building don’t have to worry about damage due to UV rays.
2. BUR (Built-Up Roof)
BUR is a short form for Built-Up Roof. These refer to the usual types of the flat roofing systems. As these comprise layers of felt and bitumen, they make the roof durable. These are also quite capable of withstanding the outdoor weather conditions.
3. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
This material is a single-ply roofing membrane. It is widely used in flat roofing systems because it’s energy efficient. As the material is capable of reducing the energy costs, they keep the building cool. Hence, you will observe TPO in industrial and commercial buildings.
4. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
This is nothing but a membrane made from rubber. In addition to being durable, the membrane also withstands the climatic conditions. As these are available in large sheets, people can install them faster. With the flexibility that EPDM offers, it is also easier to install without cracking.
5. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is yet another roofing material made from a single ply. These are durable and resistant to diverse chemicals. They are also known to last long because they can withstand the climatic conditions. Thus, these are ideal for commercial flat roofs which need to be maintained often.
6. Modified Bitumen
Modified Bitumen is a roofing material which has asphalt. As these are altered, they offer more flexibility and durability. Besides, they are applied in layers and can be installed using different methods. This makes them reliable especially when there’s a flat roof.
7. Roof Slope
Even though flat roofs feature a uniform level, they still have a slope. They are set at 1/4″ to 1/2″ per foot. Moreover, with the minimal slope, the water gets directed easily towards the drainage system. You may also not observe pooling of water or any damage with time.
8. Flashing
Flashing is known to be a material that is made from metal. This prevents the entry of water into the structure. Hence, flashing is installed in HVAC units, and chimneys where people may observe leaks.
9. R-Value
The R-value is nothing but a value that indicates the ability of resisting heat flow. So, if the value is high, then then the insulation is good. This, in turn, reduces the energy costs. Insulation is also important for flat roofs because they are under intense sunlight.
10. Substrate
The substrate is a surface on which people install the roofing material. In case of flat roofs, this compound is composed of concrete, oriented strand board (OSB) and plywood. It also offers stability for the roofing system.
11. Underlayment
Underlayment is known as a protective layer that rests between the outermost material and the roof deck. This serves as a barrier to mitigate the occurrences of water entry. Therefore, you can expect some more protection before the experts apply the roofing material.
12. Seam
These are joints where the roofing materials overlap. But, when you observe flat roofs, these are properly sealed to prevent leaks. Heat-welding may also be carried out with seams by using EPDM and TPO.
13. Storm Straps
Storm straps are metal ties that secure the roof to the building’s structure. In areas prone to high winds, these straps are crucial for preventing roof uplift during severe weather conditions, providing added protection for flat roofing systems.
14. Single-Ply
Single-ply roofing refers to the flat roofs that use just one membrane. This may include EPDM, PVC or TPO. Hence, you can expect a waterproof barrier which is quite durable. Moreover, the roofing is easy to install and is light in weight.
15. Torch-Down
Torch-Down refers to the installation approach in which a torch heats up modified bitumen membranes. This enables experts to place them firmly on the roof. As these create a strong bond, they are effective for flat roofs. They also enhance the longevity of roofs during inclement climatic conditions.
16. Felt
Felt is nothing but an underlayment made from polyester. The underlayment can also be made from fiberglass. Such a type of material then protects the flat roofs from becoming moist. While professionals apply felt, it enhances the roof’s overall durability.
Parts of a Pitched Roof vs. Flat Roof
Even when flat roofs and pitched roofs have some common parts, they may seem unique in some way.
Parts of a Pitched Roof:
- Roof Framing System: This refers to the framework that supports the roof.
- Roof Deck: This is the surface that covers the roof’s frame.
- Underlayment: This serves as a barrier and is placed between other material and the roof deck.
- Ice and water shield: This offers more protection especially in regions like valleys.
- Flashing: These are metallic pieces that prevent the entry of water through joints.
- Roofing Material: The outer layer usually comprises the metal roofing or shingles.
- Roof Vents: These are set up for ventilation and for preventing accumulation of water droplets.
- Soffit and Fascia: While soffits are beneath eaves, the fascia is a vertical board set up on the roof’s edges.
- Downspouts and gutters: These are installed properly to direct the water away from the foundation.
A flat roof consists of several key components, including the decking, insulation, membrane, and flashing, each playing a crucial role in maintaining the roof’s integrity. The decking forms the foundation, while the insulation helps regulate temperature. The waterproof membrane shields the roof from leaks, and the flashing protects vulnerable areas like edges and corners. Together, these elements ensure a durable and efficient roofing system.
In conclusion, understanding the parts of a flat roof is vital for its longevity and performance. At Gerico Construction, we offer expert roofing services to ensure your flat roof is built to last, providing protection and value for years to come.
FAQs
1. What is the best material for a flat roof?
Among the diverse materials, PVC, EPDM, and TPO are the best materials for flat roofs. These are durable, energy efficient and can be installed easily.
2. How often should flat roofs be inspected?
It’s always better to inspect flat roofs at least two times during a year. You also have to inspect the roofs after severe climatic conditions. This can help you detect issues before they grow worse.
3. How long does a flat roof last?
Depending on the materials and the installation process, flat roofs can last for many years. Usually, the roofs can last for a time period between 15 and 30 years.
4. Why is flashing important in a flat roof?
Flashing is important in flat roofs because it prevents leaks. Water may not seep through chimneys and vents once flashing is set up.
5. How do flat roofs handle water drainage?
With scuppers, drains, and a slight slope, flat roofs direct water across the roof’s surface. This, eventually, prevents pooling of water which can further damage the building’s structure.
Finally, we hope that you have understood the components of a flat roof. After going through this guide, you will surely be able to choose suitable materials. You can also follow some steps for repairs and maintenance.
