People who choose flat or low-sloped roofs for their houses do so because of functionality and aesthetics. A flat roof, like other roof types, has the main function of protecting the house against the elements. In addition, flat and other low-sloped roofs look great on a variety of architectural styles including modern buildings.

While old flat roofs do not last as long as their pitched counterparts, advances in technology over the past decades saw the development of new membranes that can compete with pitched roofs in terms of lifespan. For those interested in knowing the common membranes available in the different types of flat roof solutions, we listed them below.

TPO

Flexible Thermo Polyolefin (TPO) is designed to correct issues associated with other Thermoplastic membranes by possessing better seam, puncture and tear strength. Sales of TPO membrane roofing in the United States exceed all other types of flat roofs. TPO is considered a green product because it can be recycled 100% without chemical byproduct.

EPDM

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber and the most widely-used single-ply roof membranes. It is reasonably-priced and has a warranted lifespan of up to 30 to 50 years when properly applied.

Metal Flat Roof

Metal is ideal for both flat and pitched roofs. Different metals such as steel, zinc, aluminum and copper are used as covers. Although it costs more than other roofing materials, metal more than makes up for the upfront cost by its durability and low-maintenance.

Modified Bitumen

Modifiers such as APP (tactic polypropylene) and SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) are added to enhance the performance of traditional roofing asphalt. APP was added to asphalt bitumen to improve its ageing quality. SBS, on the other hand, improves substandard asphalt and make it flexible like rubber.

Asphalt

Asphalt built-up roof (BUR) membrane uses multiple plies of asphalt-impregnated felt embedded in bitumen. The asphalt is applied on the bitumen while still hot to merge and form a single-piece material. The membrane is laminated several layers (up to four plies) to form a thick material. It is protected from wear and tear and sunlight by embedding crushed stone and other granules on the surface. Unlike other roofing systems, asphalt roof installation is energy-intensive and adds to air pollution.

Turbo Seals

A gel-life membrane composed of 45% recycled tire rubber. It is placed on top of existing asphalt roofs and covered by a sheet membrane.

PVC Roofing

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) membrane roofing is also known as vinyl roofing. Because of its light color that reflects sunlight, PVC roofs are energy efficient. They are also used to waterproof green roofs.

Homeowners nowadays can choose from a wide variety of roof coatings and paints for their homes. Selecting a coating depends on a variety of factors including the material used, style and pitch of the roof.

Which one should you choose if you have an option? The information we provided below should help in your selection.

Acrylic Coatings

These are made of different kinds of acrylic polymer and manufactured to increase the durability of the coating and therefore extend its life. While different colors are available, they come mostly in white because of its reflective quality. Most people prefer acrylic coatings because of their durability and low price.

Proper application of acrylic coatings require at least two coats and may be rolled or sprayed. For best results, the second coating is applied perpendicular to the first. A recoating is also recommended within 2 to 3 years from application.

Asphalt Coatings

Another name for this type of coating is cutback coating. The asphalt component, which is solid at room temperature, is liquefied or “cut back” with the use of a solvent. The process makes it easier to apply the coating on the roof’s surface. Asphalt coatings are sold either in black color or reflective coating of aluminum-finish. Users are advised to observe caution because asphalt coatings usually contain asbestos.

Asphalt Emulsions

These contain different types of organic and inorganic fibers and other fillers that strengthens the coating. The primary component are asphalt particles diffused in water. Clay is used as the bonding element. Asphalt emulsions generally come in brown and black colors although reflective versions are available when titanium or aluminum are added to the mix.

People who prefer asphalt emulsions point to its easy application as a major factor. Applying the coating requires very minimal material and may be accomplished with the use of push broom.

Silicone Coatings

This type of coating is a favorite among environmentalists because it is biodegradable. Silicon coatings are created using solvents and catalyst added to a silicone base, a natural mineral. You can apply the coating using either a roller or spray gun. What make silicon coating stand out from the other types of coatings are its resistance to water ponding for long periods of time and its ability to adhere to different substrates even without the application of a primer. These two qualities of silicone coating make it the best type of coating since they produce both cost-effectiveness and quality.

One of the most common types of roofing materials are shingles. While shingles are generally associated with asphalt shingles, they actually embrace a wider range of materials.

Shingles include almost every roof cover type that does not involve a single material capping the entire roof. Hence, shingles could be made from different materials such as the common asphalt, wood, clay, tile and even metal.

Each type of shingle has its corresponding costs in labor and materials. The costlier versions are the so-called impact-resistant shingles since they provide defense against leaks, create roof deck protection, improve the physical appeal of the house and enhance energy efficiency.

To help you prepare your budget before embarking on a roofing project, we provide an estimate of the costs involved in the installation of the different types of shingles:

Asphalt Shingles

The most common type of shingles used for roofing because they cost less than other materials and are relatively easier to install, which make them perfect for DIY practitioners. They are lighter than other shingle types, and therefore, more convenient to use.

The cost of DIY asphalt shingles on a normal ranch-style house would range from $680 to $3,700. The cost variation depends on the design, material quality and roof size. Hiring a professional costs from $1,700 to $8,400.

Metal

Metals provide the longest roof lifespan because they are durable and not affected by issues faced by other shingles. Its high cost but long life make metal suited for people intending to stay in their homes for a long time.

Metal roofs cost from $5,100 to $22,000. Aluminum has a higher price range—$11,900 to $24,200. The cost of copper roofs range from around $25,500 to $39,600.

Slate

Its natural look and durability make slate a favorite among homeowners. Indeed, larger houses usually have slate for their roofs.

Costs vary from $17,000 to $84,000 for a 2,000 square-foot home. A 3,000 square-foot home will cost from $27,000 to $120,000 depending on location and design.

Tile

People love tiles because they can be formed into different colors and shapes. They are also easy to replace if they are damaged.

The cost of concrete tiles runs from $7,650 to $21,000. Ceramic tiles will cost around $11,900. If you want to customize the tiles, you will shell out a higher amount from $17,000 to $60,000.

Wood Shake

Wood shakes have more aesthetic appeal but require more maintenance because they deteriorate faster than other materials and are fire-prone. Insects and molds are other issues affecting wood shake shingles.

The costs vary from $6,800 to $20,000. Synthetic or simulated wood shakes made from rubber or plastic, which provide better fire protection, cost around $12,600 to $18,900.