Flat Roofing in Austin, TX

Residential And Commercial Flat Roofing Services

While their importance is often overlooked, roof systems are carefully designed to keep buildings air and water-tight to maintain their integrity. Roofing options have expanded over the past 50 years, ensuring every building has a roof that meets its specific requirements. As such, building owners, architects, and contractors must be well informed on the different types of roofs available. Flat roofs are typically used on commercial buildings. They can be found in factories, warehouses, box stores, apartment buildings, and schools or universities. These roofs are designed with efficiency in mind. Clients interested in flat roof installation in Austin must look no further than LOA Roofing and Construction.

What Materials Are Used With A Flat Roof Installation?

EPDM Membrane Roofing

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, EPDM for short, is a synthetic rubber black membrane that is often employed in the construction of commercial and medical buildings. EPDM is considered to be the ideal option for a garage roof or other space that can be seen from above, as the black color doesn’t reveal dirt like white does.

EPDM is an incredibly durable material. A fully bonded EPDM flat roof can last anywhere from 25 to 30 years.

TPO Roofing

TPO roofs are categorized by their bright white coloring. These are among the most common roof types of commercial buildings and are associated with incredibly high energy savings. A single-ply roofing membrane, thermoplastic polyolefin has exploded in popularity in recent years. TPO membranes are manufactured in sheets 10, 12, or 20 feet wide, and the systems consist of both synthetics and reinforced scrim.

TPO has become widely embraced across the industry due to its naturally reflective surface, which deflects UV rays.

PVC Membrane Roofing

Just like TPO, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a single-ply white membrane that has become a popular option for commercial facilities. PVC also resembles TPO in its chemical formulation, and the installation process is very similar.

The primary differences between PVC and TPO are that PVC is a more flexible material and it has been in use longer than TPO. PVC flat roofing systems usually last about 25 years.

Standing Seam Metal Roof

A standing seam metal roof system is essentially a group of metal panels that are connected at the seams. This setup ensures that the metal panels can move easily during thermal expansion.

A standing seam metal roofing system is a great option for flat roofs. Furthermore, it comes with more color options and is longer-lasting.

Properly installed metal roofing systems typically last 30 years or longer. In some cases, they can even last 50 years. It should be noted that these benefits are what make this approach more expensive than the aforementioned options.

Why choose LOA Construction?

At LOA Construction, we let our work speak for itself. We value integrity above all else and inform our customers if they don’t need roof repair. We offer comprehensive consultations to our clients that make them well-informed before making a decision on their home.

We believe that doing right by our customers is the only way to have a healthy, long-standing business. The good rapport we have created with our clientele over the years is the result of our honesty and commitment to excellent service. Call us today to schedule a consultation for flat roof repair or installation in Austin, TX.

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Pros And Cons Of Flat Roofing Installation

Pros:

Cost-effective

Overall, flat roofing systems are much cheaper than pitched roofs. This is due to various factors, including cheaper materials, a safer installation process (lower labor costs), and much cheaper repair expenses.

More Flexible

Flat roofs are more flexible than pitched roofs. This comes with various benefits, such as installing air conditioning units on the roof. Beyond that, it decreases the likelihood of vandalization. Flat roofs allow for creative ideas, such as roof gardens or terraces. Clients can plan the roof party of their dreams. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions regarding flat roofing in Austin.

Lower Utility Bills

Flat roofs come with flexibility that allows clients to save on energy bills. For example, installing solar panels is much easier on flat roofs than on pitched roofs. They also provide better insulation, keeping a building from getting too hot. This is especially ideal for businesses in hot climates (such as Austin) that rack up big energy bills from air conditioning costs.

Easier Installation

With LOA, flat roofing in Austin is more straightforward and faster. This means that costs are lower, and businesses can return to work faster than they would with a pitched roof. Moreover, these roofs have more accessibility, making them easier to inspect and repair.

Cons:

Better For Small Buildings

Flat roofs are only considered to be stable for smaller buildings. They work well with the vast majority of commercial buildings, but in some cases, special measures will need to be taken. This usually involves changing the weight distribution of the building’s interior to create more stability.

Limited Lifespan

Flat roofs may have a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs, lasting 25 years, on average. It should be noted, however, that this aspect is balanced out by their lower cost. At LOA replacing your flat roof in Austin, is much cheaper and takes less time to complete.

More Complex Water Drainage Process

Many people hold the incorrect belief that rainwater accumulates on flat roofs. The truth is that these roofing systems come with sophisticated drainage systems. Overall, this aspect is a pro, as it prevents water from collecting on the roof. However, the drainage system may need to be inspected on occasion to ensure that it is working properly.

Membrane Shrinkage

Some materials used in flat roofing systems may experience shrinkage. This shrinkage is a result of the membrane’s vulnerability to ultraviolet radiation and can create a situation in which hail is a big hazard.

Flat Roofing FAQ

Are flat roofs less aesthetically pleasing than pitched roofs?

Ultimately, this is subjective as everyone has their own preferences for the look of their roof. Generally speaking, when roof space is used with aesthetics in mind, a flat roof can be very visually appealing. Clients who create a roof garden or terrace, for instance, find that their roof is one of the most positive features of the entire facility.

How often do flat roofs need to be inspected?

Roof inspections on flat roofs should be conducted twice a year, preferably in March and November. This will allow for a better understanding of the roof’s status in different weather conditions. It is a good idea to inspect it following heavy rain or snow.

Can my business stay open while the roof is being worked on?

Generally speaking, businesses can remain open while repairs are taking place. Under certain circumstances, this even applies to a full roof replacement. This is especially true if the roof is being redecked, leaving the old membrane in place. Businesses can stay running, as the membrane protects customers from being exposed to elements in the roof.

Why choose LOA Construction?

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Choose quality roofing for a lasting investment in your home.

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