Commercial buildings often have flat roofs. That means they need flat roofing, which is often quite different from residential roofing on homes with sloped roofs. Flat roofs have a rubber membrane, foam, plastic membrane, or built-up roofing. Here's a look at the special qualities of these materials that make them suitable for your commercial flat roof.

The Roofing Is Watertight

Water may not roll off of a flat roof right away. Standing water is a problem that should be fixed, but even when water drains, it might move slowly. Shingle roofing isn't suitable for this environment since water would roll under the shingles.

Flat roofing is different. It's either a single blanket or multiple membranes bonded together so there are no places for water to get under the roofing. This keeps your building dry, even when snow melts on the roof.

Flat Roofing Tolerates Foot Traffic

A flat roof usually sees more foot traffic than a sloped roof. That's because a commercial flat roof is often used for storing HVAC and other equipment. Plus, your maintenance and security personnel may make frequent rounds on the roof. Flat roofs can be damaged, but the membranes and foam are tough enough to withstand people walking around on the roof.

Flat Roofing Is Easy To Install And Repair

Flat roofs are usually easy to put on. They require a deck, insulation boards, and roofing materials. The roofing is sprayed on or rolled out on the roof. Since the crew works on a flat surface, there are fewer safety hazards when installing flat roofing.

Once the roof is on, it's easy to make regular inspections of membranes and foam. If damage is found, repairs are pretty simple and involve filling a hole with caulk in foam or covering a hole with a patch on membrane roofing.

The Roofing Has A Long Life

Flat roofing can last for many years if you maintain it properly. This gives you good value for your roofing investment. It's often possible to prolong the life of membrane and foam roofing by applying a coating or a new layer of roofing. Membranes and foam are suitable for a variety of climates, and some may even help your building stay cooler in the summer due to their reflective nature.

A roofing contractor can explain the good and bad points of each type of roofing so you buy the best match for your building. Things to compare are cost, climate, appearance, longevity, and ease of repairs. Once you make your choice in new roofing, your contractor may be able to apply it over your old roof without having to tear off the old materials. This is a common practice when the boards under the roofing are still dry and in good shape. 

For more info about flat roofs, contact a local company.