Who regulates flat roofs?

A complicated and highly-effective web of voluntary associations, roofing material manufacturers, and roofing contractors work together to ensure building owners are protected from product failures or installation defects.

What is a Flat Roof Coating?

A roof coating waterproofs all the seams, enclosures, fasteners and penetrations on a flat roof covering and applies a top coating (typically elastomeric and white in color) that is waterproof and UV resistant. A roof coating extends the life of the existing roof membrane.

Why Coat a Flat Roof?

Flat roofs, and roofs in general, serve an important purpose. They shield building structures, materials, and occupants from the elements - from the sun, rain, sleet, snow, and ice. Flat roof coatings prevent sun and water penetration and damage, help control building temperatures and costs, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your building and property.

How Often Should a Flat Roof Be Coated?

The exact frequency and type of coating will depend on the roof condition and type. It can vary from every 5 years, up to every 20 years. It is a good idea to discuss whether a coating is needed at the time of your annual flat roof inspection. If you notice cracking, leaking, pooling, or any other sign of roof damage in the interim, get in touch with a reputable flat roofing contractor to schedule an inspection and ask for advice.

Is Painting a Flat Roof the Same as Sealing or Coating One?

Both sealing and coating are distinct from “painting” a flat roof. Painting a roof is something that is done for aesthetic purposes only (changing or restoring the color). The paint is typically only one-quarter the thickness of a flat roof coating. It does not have the protective or life-extending properties of a flat roof coating.

What is a Commercial Flat Roof Cricket?

A cricket is a diamond or triangle-shaped elevation in the roof that redirects water towards a drain. A cricket works with the existing slope of the roof so that as the water runs down in a straight line, it hits the cricket, and is redirected laterally towards a drain or scupper.

Can You Use Residential Gutters On a Commercial Flat Roof System?

There is nothing inherently wrong with residential gutters, but the seam where flat roof drip edges and gutters meet is usually problematic. A better way to install a gutter on a flat roof system is to incorporate the gutter with the drip edge so there is no seam.

Topic: Definitions, Tips and Techniques

Name: Flat Roof Solutions
Address: 3 Frame Avenue, Suite 1010, Malvern, PA, 19355, United States
Telephone: 610-881-6155
Price range: $$$

How To Install A Drain On A Commercial Flat Roof

by Jared Van Vranken | Apr 18, 2025 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Featured, Flat Roof Installations

Installing a rooftop drain is a complex process best undertaken by a professional. Learn the steps involved.

Are Sealing and Coating a Commercial Flat Roof The Same Thing?

by Jared Van Vranken | Aug 12, 2024 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Restorations

Yes, they are the same thing. Learn when and why these different terms are used and how coating and sealing are different from painting.

What Counts As A Flat Roof?

by Jared Van Vranken | May 1, 2024 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Materials and Types

A flat roof is any roof with a slope of 2/12 or less. In other words, a roof that rises no more than 2″ for every 12″ of horizontal run.

Tips For How To Measure The Slope of a Commercial Flat Roof

by Jared Van Vranken | Apr 16, 2024 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques

Commercial rooftops are large and tricky to measure. Here are three options depending on your roof type and tool preference.

How To Calculate The Slope of a Commercial Flat Roof

by Jared Van Vranken | Apr 2, 2024 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques

Using basic geometry, learn how to calculate and express the slope of a commercial flat roof in five easy steps.

How To Repair Commercial Flat Roof Ponding

by Jared Van Vranken | Jan 16, 2024 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Maintenance and Repairs

Four effective solutions to flat roof ponding problems considering the unique needs of commercial property managers and building owners.

How To Quickly Fix a Leak on a Commercial Flat Roof

by Jared Van Vranken | Dec 26, 2023 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Maintenance and Repairs

It’s possible to implement a fix for puncture leaks, but best to consult with a professional for persistent leaks tied to workmanship issues. Learn a quick three-step process.

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Flat Roof Solutions has been serving the Philadelphia region since 1997. We have completed over 2 million square feet of roofing projects for large and small companies.

Over the years, Flat Roof Solutions has built relationships with top manufacturers of commercial and industrial roofing systems in the United States. We are qualified to install and repair many high-quality systems and are regarded as a top-tier applicator in the mid-Atlantic region.

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Topic: Definitions, Tips and Techniques

How To Install A Drain On A Commercial Flat Roof

Are Sealing and Coating a Commercial Flat Roof The Same Thing?

What Counts As A Flat Roof?

Tips For How To Measure The Slope of a Commercial Flat Roof

How To Calculate The Slope of a Commercial Flat Roof

How To Repair Commercial Flat Roof Ponding

How To Quickly Fix a Leak on a Commercial Flat Roof

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