Commercial buildings must conform to strict building codes and the performance of these buildings is critical to the success of the companies which occupy them. When it comes to roofing, you must ensure you select the best roof for the facility in order to maximize energy efficiency, reduce down time and make the best overall investment.
As a local commercial roof contractor, we have been fortunate to be trusted by businesses of all types with their roof installations, repairs and maintenance. Since we’re located in Houston, our work has to be great to hold up to the extreme heat and weather the area often experiences.
Many commercial structures feature flat roofs, and our team members have decades of experience working with different flat roofing systems. If you own or manage a facility and it’s time for a new flat roof, or you’re building a new structure and evaluating your roofing options, hopefully the answers below will give you some clarity regarding your new roof, and if you’re looking for a contractor then we would love to help.
What Pitch is Considered Flat?
It might come as a surprise, but a roof doesn’t have to be completely flat in order to be considered a flat roof. In fact, many roofing systems rely on a little bit of slope in order to work correctly. The degree of pitch for a flat roofing system will depend on the structure, but generally ¼” per foot is the appropriate slope for a flat roof. This number can vary in certain instances, but is good as a rule of thumb. In residential construction, you might come across the rule of anything less than 3 in 12 pitch being a low slope roof, but there is a difference between low slope and flat.
What Kind of Roof is Best for My Building?
The best type of roofing system for your building will depend on several factors, and an experienced installer can help you make the best decision. The size of your building, various entry points like vents, your preferences and your budget all play a role in determining the ideal roof for your facility. In general, commercial flat roofs fall into one of a few categories: a single membrane like TPO, metal panel, a built-up roof which uses tar and gravel or a polyurethane foam roof. To determine the best option for your needs, give us a call and we will be happy to assess your building.
What Should I Look For in an Installer?
When selecting the installation partner for your project, consider their experience level and reputation in the community. A reputable installer should be able to provide references from clients with facilities such as yours, and they should have a great deal of experience in commercial roofing. You should be able to trust your installer has your best interests in mind, and it’s helpful to select an installer who can also maintain and repair the roof.
To learn more about commercial flat roofing systems and how we can be your ideal partner, browse our website or give us a call today.
