Commercial Roofing
Roof replacement, repair and inspection for commercial buildings, multifamily properties and property managers.
Flat Roofing: Membrane Roofs That Stay Watertight
A flat roof does not shed water the way a pitched roof does, so the membrane, the seams and the drainage have to be right. We install and repair flat and low-slope roofs on homes and commercial buildings.
Flat roof systems we install
EPDM is a black rubber membrane that comes in large sheets, which keeps the number of seams low. TPO is a white, heat-welded membrane that reflects sunlight and has seams fused together with hot air. Modified bitumen is an asphalt-based sheet applied in layers and is a tough choice for smaller roofs and roofs that see foot traffic.
Each one suits a different building and budget. We will tell you which we would use on your roof and why.
Where flat roofs fail
Almost always at the edges and openings: seams that have come apart, flashing that has pulled away at walls and parapets, and the seals around vents, drains and rooftop equipment. Standing water speeds all of it up. A roof that still holds puddles two days after rain has a drainage problem that needs to be corrected.
Repair or new membrane?
Isolated seam and flashing failures on a membrane in decent shape can be repaired. When the membrane is brittle, shrinking or leaking in many places, or the insulation under it is wet, replacement is the lasting fix. We check the condition of the insulation and deck before recommending either.
Flat Roofing near you
Three staffed offices cover Delaware County and Chester County. Pick the one closest to your roof.
County pages: Delaware County roofing and Chester County roofing.
Flat Roofing questions
What is the best material for a flat roof?
There is no single best. EPDM rubber, TPO and modified bitumen each fit different buildings. The right choice depends on roof size, how the roof drains, foot traffic and budget.
Is a flat roof really flat?
No. A properly built flat roof has a slight slope so water runs to drains, scuppers or the roof edge. A roof that holds standing water has a drainage problem.
How do I know my flat roof needs replacing?
Signs include leaks in several places, open seams, blisters or cracks in the membrane, and soft spots that suggest wet insulation underneath.
Can a flat roof be repaired?
Yes, when the membrane is otherwise in good condition. Seams, flashing and punctures can all be repaired. We inspect the whole roof before recommending a repair.
Do you install flat roofs on houses?
Yes. We install and repair flat roofs on rowhomes, additions, porches and garages as well as on commercial buildings.
Why does water pond on my flat roof?
Ponding happens when the roof has settled, the slope was never adequate, or the drains are blocked. It shortens the life of the membrane and should be corrected.
Related roofing services
Roof Leak Detection
We find where the water actually gets in, which is rarely where the stain shows, and fix it at the source.
Roof Repair
Leaks, missing shingles, failed flashing and storm damage fixed properly, so the repair lasts as long as the roof around it.
Ready for a straight answer on your roof?
Tell us what is going on and we will come out, look at it and give you a written estimate. No pressure.