Overview of Flat Roof Options in Florida
Businesses in the Gainesville, FL area have a lot of options to consider for their roofing solutions. While there are many potential types of roofing systems that could work, do you
know which one is right for your business?
We’ve put together a helpful overview of the various roofing options for flat roofs in Florida so you can familiarize yourself with what is available, as well as the different advantages to each. If you have any questions about the options you have, please let us know and we’d be glad to walk you through the process.
Flat Roof Material Options
- TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) – TPO roofing is especially suitable for flat and lower-slope roofs. This material was originally created for pond liners, but has been a popular roofing option for over 30 years. TPO roofs consist of a single ply of roofing sheets with heat-welded seams. Along with being one of the most economical options, it also is energy efficient and easy to repair.
- PVC – This material is an excellent choice for flat roofs. This roofing membrane is designed for durability and ease of upkeep. It is also recommended for applications where the roof may come into contact with grease or other chemicals. Like TPO, it consists of a single ply with heat-welded seams. It is also a very cost-effective roofing solution, but is more expensive than TPO.
- KEE – Another single ply membrane used in the construction of flat roofs, KEE is used alongside PVC or other products to build up a durable, weatherproof roof. It typically has superior puncture resistance to the other single-ply membranes, but also is more expensive than a regular PVC or TPO roof.
- EPDM – Very similar to TPO, EPDM is a synthetic rubber which is commonly used for commercial flat roofs, especially office buildings, distribution warehouses, hospitals, and schools. Unlike, other single ply membranes EPDM is naturally black and has taped seams. In the northern states, the black membrane is useful for melting snow in the winter months and heating buildings, but in Florida (and other southern states), the black membrane is bad for cooling, and the taped seams are more likely to blow apart during windy storms. For these reasons, it is rarely used.
- Modified Bitumen (Mod Bit) – Modified Bitumen membrane consists of a polyester or fiberglass membrane coated with asphalt. Modern modified bitumen roofs are typically constructed from one or more inner plies or membrane and a cap sheet that is coated with reflective granules. This results in multiple layers of protection and superior puncture resistance. These roof systems are long-lasting and provide a good choice for many commercial clients.
- Coatings – Depending on the condition of the current roof system, coating may be a viable option to extend the life of your roof a considerable amount until you are able to replace it. However, coatings are not usually a good option for a severely damaged roof system, so it is important to be proactive with current leaks and choose an appropriate repair or coating solution before there is major damage. Your roofer can discuss the options and help you decide whether a coating is the best choice to protect your roof and home from everything Florida weather has to throw its way.
We believe your business deserves to be able to operate without complications from your roof. When your business has a roofing need, it has the potential to be a complicated and frustrating process for you. That’s why Perry Roofing puts such an emphasis on serving our business community and removing all complications and frustrations from the process.
No matter what kind of roofing need you have, we’re here for you. Give our team a call to schedule an estimate and get your business back to business.