Flat Roofing

Flat roofing Barrow in Furness is a beast of its own. A flat roof is very different from many other types of roofs. While they call it a flat roof, it actually does have a slight slope to let the water drain off. However, snow likes to build up on flat roofs and tends to be an issue at times. Flat roofs Barrow in Furness are different in that they are one solid membrane. Typically roofs are covered in pieces that are carefully put together and layers to look something like a fish’s scales. The water hits the top of the roof and slides down the scales. But, with a flat roof, the water hits and slowly slides down the membrane to the gutter system. There are three main types of flat roof materials which are:

• Modified bitumen (MBR)
• Built-up Roofing (BUR)
• Membrane or single-ply

Modified bitumen (MBR)

Modified bitumen (MBR) was developed to replace the BUR in the 1960s. Another name for it is torch-down roofing because you have to heat the backside while you are rolling it out. This will then essentially roll out the material to the base of the roof. There are also peel and stick versions as well. This type of roofing is something that could be DYI, more so than some of the other options but it can be a bit tricky as well.

Pros:

• It is pretty easy to install. Which means lower labor costs.
• A green type product as most of the time it comes from recycled tires and other things of that nature.
• The self-adhesive ones can be installed by the owners.
• BUR is durable and offers a low maintenance option
• Compared to BUR it has been elasticity and flexibility

Built-up Roofing (BUR)

This was the most common flat roof for many many years before the other types of flat roofs were invented. It is made by layering tar and asphalt along with roofing felt and finally a later of gravel on the top. This is a bit of a messy process but the result is a very durable roof that will last for years to come.

Pros:

• It is very good for places where this is a lot of foot traffic on the roof.
• Repairs and resurfacing are pretty easy.
• It has little maintenance throughout the life of the roof.
• Is an excellent choice that has long-lasting results.

Membrane (Single-Ply) Roofing

The single-ply membrane is the most common type of flat roof for residential. It usually is made of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer or (EPDM). This is the same material that is typically used in pond liners. A membrane roof is a layer of an insulated board that is covered by the membrane material.

Pros:

• As long as no surface damage, leaking is not common.
• It tends to hold in the heat which helps with heating bills in the winter.
• This is a very lightweight roofing option.
• The repairs are so simple that even a homeowner could fix them.

The type of flat roof you need will depend on your budget and expectations. Flat roofs are not ideal in all cases. However, they are very common in commercial buildings.