What Is the Right Material for a Flat Roof? Insights from a Flat Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago

The material you use for your flat roof replacement project is a pretty important decision. As a property owner, it’s important to do your research so you end up making the right material choice for your roof.

Are you looking for some information about the different types of flat roofing materials that are available? This flat roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago is going to review some of the most popular options below.

EPDM membrane roofing

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a black synthetic rubber membrane that is commonly used in commercial settings.

While it is primarily used in commercial roofing, EPDM also has a presence in residential roofing.

We would not recommend installing an EPDM roof over a bedroom or living area because of the heat it would absorb. However, it works great over a garage or any non-living space viewable through a window since the black membrane will not become as dirty as a white membrane.

EPDM is incredibly durable and is essentially a bulletproof rubber roof system. Because of its durability, you can expect a fully adhered 0.060-thickness EPDM flat roof to last 25 to 30 years — assuming it is installed by a professional flat roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago.

TPO membrane roofing

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a white single-ply membrane used in commercial and residential roofing. TPO’s white membrane, unlike EPDM, reflects heat rather than absorbing it.

TPO is an excellent option for a flat roof or a low-slope dormer over a bedroom since it keeps the room cooler. Like EPDM, it also works great over a non-living space.

But keep in mind that if you have a window that looks over the membrane, white will get dirty faster than black. Though not as durable as EPDM, a TPO membrane flat roof can last for 25 years if properly installed.

PVC membrane roofing

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a white single-ply membrane used in commercial and residential roofing. PVC is also an excellent option for any flat or low-sloped roof over a living room or bedroom.

Putting aside the fact that they are both white membranes, PVC and TPO share many characteristics — even the installation process is pretty much the same.

The only significant difference is that PVC is somewhat more flexible and has been around for longer than TPO. A PVC flat roof, like TPO, can last for 25 years when properly installed by a flat roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago.

Standing seam metal roof

A standing seam metal roof system is made up of metal panels that are mechanically seamed or locked together at the joints. This allows the panels to expand and contract easily when subjected to thermal expansion.

A standing seam metal roof is an excellent flat roof roofing material. It will be more aesthetically pleasing with different color options and last longer than membrane roof systems.

There is no reason why your standing seam metal flat roof should not last at least 30 years if it is properly installed and your attic is well ventilated. Under ideal conditions, a standing seam metal flat roof could last for 50 years.

However, the improved life and aesthetics come at a cost, and it will be more expensive than all three types of roof membranes.

So, which material should you choose for your flat roof replacement?

If you are concerned about cost, we recommend one of the membrane roof systems. Remember to consider the space under the flat roof — we recommend PVC or TPO for living rooms and bedrooms. A standing seam metal roof is an excellent option if you have the money and want a longer life.

All four flat roofing materials are excellent options. The main thing is choosing a material that fits your budget and the desired aesthetic and hiring a reputable flat roofing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago.

Ready to Install a New Flat Roof? Contact the Best Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago.

Now that you are familiar with some of the popular flat roofing materials that are available, are you ready to have your roof replaced? If so, the team at Expert Super Seal Roofing & Tuckpointing is here to help. As the top-rated flat roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago, we have what it takes to handle all types of residential and commercial flat roofing projects. Contact us today at (773) 993-5668 to learn how we can assist you.