CT Commerial Roofing Experts
Commercial Roofing Specialists. We do flat roofs for homes too!
Although usually associate with commercial buildings, flat roofs are can be used for structures such as additions and garages.
There are several types of flat roof material to choose when installing or replacing an existing solution. Each have their own set of advantages, disadvantages and associated price-points.
If you’re looking for a new flat roof, the first place to look is your budget, with several options available, then decide if it meets the standard you require. If you’re going to be having heavy foot traffic for instance, you’ll need to go with a tougher material. For residential flat roofs we usually recommend EPDM. For larger commercial structures we regularly install Duro-Last PVC.
Need a flat roof installation or repair? JPW Building LLC are guaranteed roofing specialists.
Professional commercial roofing contractors, located in Eastern Connecticut!
Serving Windham, Tolland, New London, Middlesex, Hartford, New Haven counties, and RI and MA.
Flat Roof Materials Compared
Built up Flat Roofs (BUR)/Self-Adhered Mod Bit
A built up flat roof is one of the oldest methods available, but also one of the most reliable. A built up roof is the most common solution and the one you’re most likely to see. This type of flat roof involves installing multiple layers on top of one another to create a strong, leak resistant roof. Self-Adhered Mod Bit is a very similar process to BUR but incorporates as few as one cap sheet with multiple base layers under. Self-Adhered Mod Bit is the most recent and the style we use at Guaranteed Roofing. A BUR roof typically has three or more layers: Bitumen, ply sheets and one or more surfacing material. Average lifespan: 15-30 years – this depends on number of layers applied (also effects the warranty)- Good insulation
- Low maintenance
- Watertight
- No blistering or cracking
- Environmentally friendly
- Watertight
- Can be heavy
- Longer installation time
- More expensive to install
- Chance of leaks with improper installation
- Can absorb heat
- Cheaper than PVC
EPDM
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a type of synthetic rubber made from recycled materials. It comes in large sheets and can be installed with just one. It is an affordable flat roof material, but not the most durable. EPDM requires clear weather conditions for installation.
Available in black, white, and different thicknesses.
Average lifespan: 20-30 years
TPO
Thermoplastic olefin is a single ply membrane of chemically bonded rubber, ethylene and propylen, it is close in appearance to rubber. It has the benefit of being protective against bacteria and mold growth.
TPO can be found in grey, black and white.
Average lifespan: 15-20 years
- Affordable
- Less complex installation
- Wide sheets
- Short lifespan
- Can tear
- Can cause problems if not installed properly
PVC
PVC flat roofs have been around since the 1960s and are a popular choice. They are generally stronger than EPDM and TPO, though more expensive. PVC roofs are installed using a heat gun to maintain strength and leak resistance at the seams. It is then screwed to the surface. Installing a PVC flat roof can be tricky and requires professional knowledge.
JPW Building / Guaranteed Roofing are certified DURO-LAST PVC installers.
Average lifespan: 20-30 years
- Wind resistant
- Strong and durable
- Available in multiple colors
- Slippy to walk on when wet
- Needs to be installed by professional
- Releases toxins when manufactured/disposed
Recommended Roofing Contractors
Guaranteed Roofing is proud to be one of the top rated flat roofing companies in Windham County.
Inspect your roof twice per year and after heavy rain/snow to check the drainage is working correctly. The best times you inspect your flat roof are March and November.
Only if there are signs of damage. A roof contractor can check the cause of the build up and recommend appropriate action.
Flat roofs are built on a slight incline and are not absolutely flat.
Yes you can, however this is not recommended if you need frequent access.
We service all of Windham County and New London County CT including: Plainfield, Woodstock, Willimantic, Sterling, Putnam, Waterford, Old Lyme, Colchester, Stonington, Norwich, Mystic.
We also service Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
