If you’re a property owner or manager, you know that a flat roof can be a great investment. It provides a sleek, modern look, maximizes space for outdoor living, and even lowers energy costs. 

However, flat roofs are notoriously tricky to waterproof, and a leak can quickly become a major headache. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in the best flat roof waterproofing solutions to protect your property and your peace of mind. 

In this article, we’ll explore some of the top options available, so you can make an informed decision and enjoy your flat roof to the fullest.

 

Best Types of Flat Roof Waterproofing Solutions

Due to the numerous types of waterproofing solutions that are available, you may be having a hard time picking the best for your flat roof. Here, we will discuss the best waterproof options for your flat roof so you can decide.

 

• TPO Roofing Membrane

 

TPO is short for TPO thermoplastic polyolefin. This type of roofing membrane is majorly in the form of a single-ply white membrane, and it is commonly used in commercial and residential roofing. Since the TPO’s membrane always comes with a white finish, it reflects heat rather than absorbing it. This makes it a good option for flat roofs covering bedroom spaces since it will make the room much cooler.

 

However, this doesn’t change the fact that the TPO roofing membrane can also be used on other flat roof surfaces. After all, the TPO roofing membrane is very efficient for keeping water from penetrating through your roof. There’s one thing to note; You will need to seriously consider the appearance of the white membrane wherever you want to install the TPO.

 

This is because the white will start to get noticeably dirty after a while, and this may not be a look for your home. Regardless, this shouldn’t be a big deal if you can get professionals to install it correctly.

Besides, the TPO’s dirtiness doesn’t affect how efficiently it waterproofs your roof. If you install it properly, it can last as long as 25 years. 

 

 

• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Rubber

 

EPDM is one of the most common waterproof choices for flat roofs. It is a very flexible material capable of withstanding the thermal effects of UV rays and other extreme conditions. As long as you hire experienced professionals to install the EPDM properly, you are highly unlikely to experience leaks. This is because the material is impenetrable by water. 

 

Due to its highly flexible nature, the EPDM can expand and contract to adapt to the external temperature so it barely cracks or breaks.

 

There are two forms of EPDM. On one hand, they come in large thin sheets with tight seams sealing the sheets together to prevent leaks. These types can be easily rolled onto the roof surface. 

 

On the other hand, they come in the form of rubber coatings. You can simply install these coatings by painting them onto the roof’s surface. However, you may need to apply several coats of paint before you achieve the proper thickness level.

 

Also, the EPDM rubber is quite expensive. So if you are on a budget, you may want to consider other options.

 

 

• PVC Roofing Membrane

 

PVC roofing is short for polyvinyl chloride. It comes in the form of a single-ply white membrane, so it is quite similar to TPO. Just like TPO, its white membrane reflects heat instead of absorbing it. Similarly, it is also commonly used in both commercial and residential buildings.

 

Asides from the similarities the PVC roofing membrane shares with TPO, there are also very close similarities between both membranes’ installation processes. The major difference between both roofing membranes is that PVC roofs are more flexible than TPO membranes. 

 

PVC membranes are also a staple in the roofing industry. They’ve been around for a while, and many professionals trust their efficiency.

Other than that, PVC roofing membranes are a great option for room roofs because of their capability to keep rooms cool. However, you will have to consider their tendency to get stained, but it wouldn’t affect the functionality of the membrane.

 

And just like the TPO, as long as it is installed properly, you can expect your PVC membrane to last for as long as 25 years.

 

 

• Elastomeric Coatings

 

Elastomeric coatings are very similar to liquid EPDM coatings because they are also painted directly on the roof. They come in the form of paints, but unlike regular paints, they are much thicker and more durable.

 

They are so thick that when you apply them onto the surface of a roof, they easily fit into small cracks and openings where water could likely seep through. By so doing, this makes them a proficient waterproof seal that compares quite well to the EPDM coating.

 

Comparatively, elastomeric coatings tend to be more affordable than EPDM coatings. They often cost about a fraction of the price of getting EPDM coatings. So, if you are on a budget, the elastomeric coating is a great option.

 

However, in terms of waterproofing, elastomeric coatings are not as effective as EPDM rubber coating. 

 

 

• Modified Bitumen

 

Modified bitumen is a common waterproofing option for flat roofs. It usually comes in the form of an asphalt-based membrane that is rolled onto the surface of a roof. Unlike before, when the installation process required you to heat the material for application, now you can easily lay it onto the surface in its cold state.

 

Though this membrane is quite efficient for waterproofing roofs, it is not as durable as other roofing membranes. Moreover, it is black, so it absorbs heat. This makes transfer more heat to the room below it. 

 

Conclusion

You can keep your flat roof in top shape with the right roofer and waterproofing solution. You’ll get not just years of service if you make sure to fix any issues quickly and efficiently but also the peace of mind that comes with knowing your roof is safely protecting your most important assets. 

 

Don’t sit back and hope for the best when protecting your flat roof from water damage. Contact our expert roofers at Shoreline Roofing, who have the experience and materials to get your flat roof sealed up tight and protected against unwanted moisture intrusion. If you’re looking for a reliable company to provide top-of-the-line solutions with an unbeatable customer service experience, you must look no further than Shoreline Roofing. Contact us at (250) 413-7967 today to get started.