Flat roofing installers in New Bedford, MA

Flat roofing materials

• Built-up roofing (BUR): This solution utilizes roofing felt, tar paper and asphalt-based tar. After multiple layers are installed, a layer of gravel or a reflective coating is used to reduce heat and add better durability. This is an older technique of flat roofing.
• Modified bitumen: Modified bitumen works well for smaller-scale commercial and residential flat roofs. To install it, the material is rolled out with the seams overlapping. The seams are then merged with a torch or adhesive material. A reflective coating for better durability and lower heat absorption is installed as well.
• PVC roofing: PVC roofing uses the same high-quality plastic found in plumbing pipes: polyvinyl chloride. When installed, the seams between the sheets are joined together with a uniquely designed heat gun. It’s durable, resistant to moisture, and heat-reflective without needing an additional reflective coating. This all makes for a top-of-the-line quality product for your flat roof.
• EPDM roofing: Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a rubber-like material that comes in rolls that are laid out next to each other and then glued to the roof substrate. It can also be installed using mechanical fasteners. The substrate of the roof needs to be clean and even for installation. This material does absorb a lot of heat, but a reflective coating can cut down on that.
• TPO roofing: This is a fabric-like material. It comes in various-sized rolls so it can be installed on multiple roofs with ease. The installation can be done through adhesives, fasteners or by heat welding. It does require a clean and even substrate like EPDM.
• Spray polyurethane foam (SPF): This is a spray-on layer of dense foam. It’s sprayed over the old roofing material to seal leaks, fill in gaps and add a barrier against moisture for added protection. SPF is a good material to temporarily repair a flat roof, but it won’t fix it permanently.