The Challenges of Flat Roofing

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The Challenges of Flat Roofing

• http//www.ferrisroofing.com

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The Challenges of Flat Roofing

• Whether your business already has a flat roof and
  youre looking for the best ways to maintain it,
  or youre considering a new flat roof, its wise
  to know the challenges inherent in this type of
  roofing.
• It comes with far more challenges than sloped
  roofs, such as ponding and weight considerations.
• Knowing these risks can help you keep up with the
  maintenance on your roof to avoid unnecessary
  repairs down the line.

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Benefits of Flat Roofing

• First off, lets take a look at the benefits that
  flat roofing poses. This is a desirable option
  for many business owners due to its high
  performance qualities, cost effectiveness,
  weather resistance and functionality. Not only
  are they relatively easy to install, they feature
  a flexible design with low-maintenance qualities.
  On top of all that, theyre easier to clean than
  pitched roofs because you can get up there easily
  and move around without the threat of falling
  off. Overall, there are a few types of flat
  roofs, including
• TPO
• EPDM
• Modified bitumen
• Built-up roofing (BUR)

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Drawbacks of Flat Roofing

• There are many disadvantages to flat roofing, not
  the least of which is poor roof drainage. Failure
  to keep up with regular inspection can lead to
  clogged drains. This in turn can cause damage and
  leaks. One solution to this is to apply a
  waterproof seal, but this also must be properly
  maintained to keep costly repairs at bay. The 1
  reason flat roofs leak is lack of maintenance and
  inspection, so be sure to hire flat roofing
  specialists for this task at least once a year,
  advises SF Gate.Another challenge with flat
  roofing is that you get less structure and
  stability as opposed to a pitched roof. Because
  the drainage isnt as effective as pitched, your
  flat roof could develop ponding, or pooling of
  water. The National Roofing Contractors
  Association says any water that stays on your
  roof for more than 48 hours after a rain storm
  qualifies as ponding water, which is one of the
  most damaging effects of a flat roof. This
  standing water can get underneath your roofing
  system through even the slightest imperfection,
  such as a tear, hole, split, bare felt, unsealed
  seam or damaged flashing. When moisture gets into
  the insulation, this can result in rotted organic
  fibers and lowered thermal resistance.

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Potential for Roof Failure

• As the owner of flat roof, you also run the risk
  of roof failure, as heavy rain, hail and other
  storm-damaging effects can weaken it. In Texas,
  there are no worries about snow accumulation, but
  in the Northeast, commercial flat roof owners
  have to take this into consideration as they
  build regular snow removal into their budgets.
• Bottom line flat roofs come with many
  challenges, but overall they are a more
  affordable type of roof due to the use of fewer
  materials. If you like modern design, such as
  with a contemporary home or innovative office
  building, flat roof or one combined with a very
  low slope pitched roof is ideal for you.

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Contact Ferris Roofing in Fort Worth, TX

• Looking to install a flat roof? Want more
  information on the pros and cons? Schedule a free
  estimate with Ferris Roofing today, or contact us
  at 817-595-0500.
• Here at Ferris Roofing Contractors, flat roofing
  is one of our commercial roofing specialties
  throughout the entire Dallas/Fort Worth
  metroplex. We offer everything from new
  construction roofs and repairs to storm damage
  and re-roofing.