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.

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

Yes, they are the same thing. Coating is the preferred term in the industry, but customers and building owners sometimes use the two words interchangeably.

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 counts as a flat roof?

A flat or “low-slope” roof is defined as a roof that appears level but has a slight angle built into it to ensure proper water drainage to avoid leaks, mold, and structural damage. A flat roof has a slope of 2/12 or less, a roof that rises no more than 2" for every 12" of horizontal run. Flat roofs have lower installation costs than their steep-sloped counterparts, are easier to maintain, and typically afford additional space for equipment, storage, and recreation. This is why you see so many flat roofs on large commercial and industrial buildings.

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.

Topic: Definitions, Tips and Techniques

Name: Flat Roof Solutions
Address: 3 Frame Avenue, Suite 1010, Malvern, PA, 19355, United States
Telephone: 610-881-6155
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Can You Use Residential Gutters On a Commercial Flat Roof System?

by Jared Van Vranken | Aug 4, 2023 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Materials and Types

There is nothing inherently wrong with residential gutters, but the seam where flat roof drip edges and gutters meet is usually problematic.

How to Slope a Commercial or Industrial Flat Roof for Proper Drainage

by Jared Van Vranken | Jan 9, 2023 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Installations

Roofers use different ways to engineer slope into your building. Ask for options so you can make the best choice for your building and budget.

How To Tarp a Commercial or Industrial Flat Roof

by Jared Van Vranken | Jan 9, 2023 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques

Tarps are problematic on flat roofs because of wind uplift and an inability to create a waterproof seal. There is a better solution.

Two Things to Consider Before Repairing Your Commercial or Industrial Flat Roof

by Jared Van Vranken | May 13, 2022 | Definitions, Tips and Techniques, Flat Roof Maintenance and Repairs

Your commercial or industrial flat roof is leaking. What should you be thinking about as you consider your repair options?

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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

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

How to Slope a Commercial or Industrial Flat Roof for Proper Drainage

How To Tarp a Commercial or Industrial Flat Roof

Two Things to Consider Before Repairing Your Commercial or Industrial Flat Roof

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