A Few Things To Know About Flat Roofing Installation
by William Gerard
The process of a flat roof installation is a little different from putting a new roof on a sloped roof, but at least working on a flat roof is a little safer. Besides that, installing a membrane on a flat roof is an easier process than installing roofing like slate or wood shakes. Membranes have to be rolled out, bonded to each other, and adhered to the roof. Here's what you need to know about flat roofing installation.
Membrane Roofing Goes On Easier In Warm Weather
The coldest days of winter are not ideal for putting on roofing membranes. That's because adhesives won't bond well when it's cold and the materials are more difficult to work with.
Your roofer might work around this by keeping the materials warm until right before the roofing installation begins. However, they might recommend waiting for warmer weather if getting a new roof isn't urgent, such as a warm stretch during the winter or spring.
A New Membrane Is Rolled Over The Old One
It's common to put a new roof membrane on top of an old one after the old one has been cleaned first. To do this, the roofer rolls out the membrane first and then folds half of it back. This exposes the old roof so it can be painted with adhesive. Then the membrane is pressed into the adhesive so it sticks to the roof. Once the first side is done, the other side is applied using the same method.
This is the fully adhered method of flat roofing installation. This means the entire membrane is glued to the roof so it adheres well and won't puff up in the wind. The roofer might choose screws instead of adhesive, so you can discuss installation options to understand what's best for your roof.
The Seams Are Stuck Together
Roofing membranes aren't wide enough for a single membrane to cover a roof. Instead, the contractor has to seam membranes together as they're put on your roof. Roofing membranes can be made of plastic or rubber, and there are different methods of bonding the seams.
The rubber membranes are bonded together with seam tape, adhesives, and sealant. The plastic membranes are bonded together with heat. Once the membranes are sealed, they're checked with a seaming tool to make sure there are no gaps.
Membrane Roofs Use Membrane Flashing Too
Flat roofing installation involves putting on new flashing just like other roofing installations. However, your roofer can use membrane flashing instead of metal. Some flashing comes in rolls with a peel-and-stick backing, while other types of membrane flashing have to be attached with adhesive. Matching the flashing to the roofing keeps your roof attractive while keeping rain from rolling down roof protrusions.
For more information, contact a local company, like Diamond Roofers LLP.
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About Me
Do you know how to tell if you have problems with your flashing, loose shingles, or damaged tar pitch? Well, I didn't either until I experienced some of those issues on my own. One day, I realized that my roof was leaking and that I needed to find a solution fast. After contacting a professional roofing company, they were able to solve my troubles and teach me the signs of trouble. I want you to avoid the same types of hassles, which is why my blog is filled to the brim with information about roofing and home ownership. You never know, these tips could really come in handy!