Getting a flat roof is a common alternative since it’s affordable, looks good, and can be sturdy.
Without an expert flat roof roofing contractor, your flat roof structure’s life expectancy can vary depending on different factors.
Do you want to get more information? Have you wondered: “how long do flat roofs last?” Find the correct answer here!
How Long Does a Flat Roof Last?
A flat roof can last for years and sometimes decades, depending on the construction materials. If you get a modified bitumen or built-up roof, you probably won’t have any issues until 20 years later.
When you have spray-on polyurethane foam coatings or lightweight thermoplastic polyolefin, your flat roof’s lifespan can be just as long. Additionally, other roofing membrane materials can make the structure sturdier.
If you get polyvinyl chloride roofing (PVC) and EPDM roofs (propylene diene monomer), the structure could last up to 10 years more. However, staying on track with the maintenance and inspection schedules would be best.
Factors that Impact How Long Your Flat Roof Lasts
Generally, various factors affect the longevity of your flat roof, including if it is properly maintained or not.
When you understand them, staying ahead of reparations and maintenance is easier. Have you wondered: “how long does a flat roof last?” These are all the aspects that can make you need a roof replacement.
Roofing Material
The materials used to make a flat roof play a significant role when it comes to determining its lifespan. With a multi-layer roof made of waterproof material, you may have a structure that lasts 15 to 20 years, especially if it’s made of gravel or hot tar.
On the other hand, a built-up roof or a modified bitumen roof could last slightly less. These materials may also not be ideal for every building because they’re heavy.
You can also get a lightweight single-ply roof. Also, it could last as long as the previously mentioned options or even longer. Nonetheless, it depends on the material’s properties, the roof’s design, and the trustworthiness of the roofing contractor you’re working with.
A PVC roof and EPDM rubber roofs can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, and in many cases, EPDM is not as sturdy as other alternatives. For example, a PVC roof can last up to 30 years if your structure gets proper maintenance.
Weather
The weather is very important when considering the lifespan of a flat roof, especially if you live in Cedar Park, Texas.
When a structure is exposed to high winds, extreme temperature changes, rain, snow, heavy sunlight, brutal gusts of wind, and heavy precipitation, it could get a shorter lifespan than the same materials in other climates.
An asphalt roofing membrane, for instance, will contract and expand as the temperature changes. This puts additional stress on the flashing designed to prevent leaks and water damage. In addition, hot temperatures could cause tar to blister – and you may end up with premature wear.
Depending on where you live, single-ply materials may be more convenient. EPDM roofs are often a fantastic choice because they come in black, so they can help melt snow in cold weather and retain heat. Nonetheless, in warm weather, it could contribute to experiencing excessive temperatures.
If you’re willing to pay a higher price, you could also get EPDM in the light-colored coating. TPO is often more affordable and readily available in different colors.
Lastly, you could get spray-on and PVC coatings as well, they’re available in all shades necessary and may give you the solutions you need.
Underlying Problems
Sometimes, you may pick the right material, but if you don’t fix the problems that arise, your roof still won’t last as long.
You may need roof repair if your structure has foundation problems or other issues. With modified bitumen roofs, you may need to consider the various layers of material you’ll need for it to last. Roll-on membranes require a specialized installation process as well, so you’ll also need to look into them.
Generally, a roof’s lifespan can vary a lot depending on the quality of domestic roof construction and how much you take care of it. A flat roof needs proper maintenance to last for more years!
Flat Roofing Options – Short Guide on the Types of Flat Roofs
This article has pointed out different materials for your flat roof. However, it would be best to learn more about flat roofing options.
Choosing one flat roof option is crucial because it’s essential to the installation process. Also, in the end, it influences how much the flat roof structure lasts.
Since choosing materials is so important, you need to know each of the four primary options to make the right choice. Take a look at the most common alternatives.
EPDM Membrane Roofing
EPDM roofs are made with a synthetic rubber black membrane and are short for ethylene diene terpolymer. This material is ubiquitous in medical and commercial facilities.
In some cases, you can use it in residential properties as well. However, it would be best to be careful when putting it in a living space or bedroom because it’s black and will absorb heat.
TPO Membrane Roofing
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a white, single-ply membrane that you can use for both residential and commercial roofs.
Unlike EPDM, TPO is white, so it’ll reflect heat instead of absorbing it, making the room cooler. Remember that its color will also affect its appearance – it’ll likely get dirty quicker. However, it can last up to 25 years if you take care of it correctly.
This material could be right for you in Cedar Park, Texas. Many clients choose it to avoid their properties being too warm during the summer, and it’s also long-lasting, so you may save money.
PVC Membrane Roofs
Polyvinyl chloride is also a single-ply membrane you can use in commercial and residential roofing.
It’s a fantastic alternative for low or flat slopes over bedrooms or living spaces. In addition, it’s similar to TPO, only it’s slightly more flexible.
Hire Flat Roof Professionals – Get a Top Roofing Contractor!
If you are in the Cedar Park area and want the perfect flat roof for your property, you need to hire a top roofing contractor to help you.
As mentioned before, you may need roof replacement or repair to extend the lifespan of your structure. Thus, working with the right flat roofing tradesperson can make a significant difference. We offer experienced, knowledgeable professionals, so contact us, and let’s get started!
Remember that we offer specialized advice on roof repair. Therefore, if you want to know your flat roof life expectancy, don’t hesitate to contact our roof mechanics!