What is flat roofing, and why is it popular these days? Find out everything you need to know about flat roofs in this short, three-part blog series.

3. Flat roofs are not new. In fact, they’ve been used on commercial
properties all over the country for decades. They’re not the hot new
thing in roofing but they’re always in demand because of how reliable
they are. With different options available, flat roofs are able to address
commercial roofing needs specifically, ensuring satisfaction with every
installation.
Here’s what you’ll get out of flat roofing
SAVINGS
Flat roofs are generally easier to build than their sloped counterparts
because of their simpler structure. You can also rake in savings through
minimal roof care requirements and lower energy costs. Flat roofs with
reflectivepropertiescandeflectheat,helpingkeepindoortemperatures
stable to keep your energy bill down.
VERSATILITY
Flatroofsareversatileandhelpyoumakethemostoutofspaceavailable.
Need a place for air conditioning units? Looking for additional outdoor
living space? Flat roofs have you covered. As long as you meet building
codes in your area, you can even upgrade to add an entire story if you
have a flat roof.
PART 1: THE BENEFITS OF FLAT ROOFING…EXPLAINED!

4. STRENGTH
Flat roofs are designed with durability in mind. They adapt well to
changes in temperature so you don’t have to worry about damage from
constant expansion and contraction. Routine maintenance improves
upon the strength flat roofs have, allowing you to make the most out of
the material’s service life.
These benefits highlight the functional capacity of flat roofs for
commercial properties, but it is also important to note that they can
complement the appearance of residential homes as well, ensuring
your home gets attention for all the right reasons.
Sold on getting a flat roof? Learn more about available options in the next
part of our blog series. Read on to find the right flat roof for you!
PART 1: THE BENEFITS OF FLAT ROOFING…EXPLAINED!

6. While there is no denying that flat roofing offers multiple advantages,
you still have to choose between various types of flat roofs that are on
the market right now. Each has something distinct to offer.
MODIFIED BITUMEN
A popular single-ply roofing option, modified bitumen features heavy-
duty fabric reinforced with polymer-modified bitumen. It comes in a roll
and can be installed either through heat-welding or the use of adhesive
backing.Modifiedbitumentakestheformofasingle-plyroofingsystem,
but as it actually has multiple plies, it is highly durable.
BUILT-UP ROOFING
The oldest form of flat roofing, built-up roofing (BUR) is still popular
because of its incredible reliability and affordability. It is made with hot
tar topped with a layer of gravel, so this roofing option is also referred
to as a tar-and-gravel roof. BURs are highly fire-resistant and can work
well with different property designs because of the range of surfacing
options available.
PART 2: A CLOSER LOOK AT FLAT ROOF TYPES

7. EPDM
Alsoknownastherubberflatroof,EthylenePropyleneDieneTerpolymer
(EPDM) roofing is preferred by many homeowners because of its long
list of advantages, including long-term durability, superior resistance
to extreme temperatures, and toughness despite heavy foot traffic. It
is also easy to install, with different installation techniques to choose
from.
PVC/TPO
These particular flat roofing types are steadily growing in popularity.
Made out of thermoplastic membranes, both are highly durable and
stable flat roof types and are also imbued with reflective and flame-
resistant properties.
Make the most out of getting a flat roof by taking
note of a few key roofing considerations.
PART 2: A CLOSER LOOK AT FLAT ROOF TYPES

9. Flat roofs are definitely a great roofing option for commercial buildings.
They’re durable, versatile, and easy to install and maintain. However,
getting a flat roof takes more than just saying “I want one!”; there are
a few points you have to consider before calling your local roofing
contractor. Here are a few questions that you should ask yourself to
make sure you’re ready for a new flat roof.
Is the project within your budget?
There are different flat roofs available so there are different options you
can take into consideration to meet any budgetary needs you might
have. To understand better what flat roof will offer you the best value,
don’t hesitate to talk to your local roofing contractor for assistance.
Are you working with the right roofer?
Proper installation greatly affects a roof’s performance. It is important
to ensure that you’re working only with roofing contractors trained and
experienced in installing flat roofs. At the very least, make sure they
have the necessary licenses in place and can offer you insurance for
your roofing project.
PART 3: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING A FLAT ROOF

10. Should you do a tear-off or roof-over?
If you choose to get a modified bitumen roof or BUR, your contractor
is going to have to do a tear-off to remove all of the old roof prior to
installation. Whether a roof-over is possible is dictated by the condition
of components currently in place on your roof. If they are not in good
shape, you will end up with a tear-off.
A QUICK REMINDER
How long it takes to install a flat roof depends on the material you
choose and the size of your roof, as well as weather conditions during
installation. A large commercial project can take anywhere from a few
weeks to a few months, but working with a reputable roofing contractor
should speed up the process.
PART 3: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING A FLAT ROOF

11. Rhino Roofing
3720 Commercial Street NE Suite
400 Albuquerque, NM 87107
(505) 242-1602
RhinoRoofingABQ.com