There are many different types of flat roofing in use today and finding one that fits your purpose can be confusing. With all the roofing materials available today finding a suitable roofing system can seem like a game of chance. However, many of the roofing systems available today have characteristics that can help you get the best roof for the best price. In this roofing article I’ll go over some of the most common roofing installations for flat roofing. I’ll also look at some of the pros and cons of a few of the flat roofing systems used in Michigan today. 

Different Types of Flat Roofing in Michigan

As with any roofing system available today there are pros and cons to each of them. There are also different quality of materials in each product as well. One thing to keep in mind when dealing with any type of roofing is the old saying: You get what you pay for. Another thing you’ll want to consider is the warranty of each roofing system. This warranty can sometimes only cover the roofing materials and not the labor associated with installing the roof. Make sure of any warranties and get everything in writing so you can ensure you’re covered just in case something goes wrong with the different types of flat roofing available today.

Tar and Gravel Flat Roofing

A popular type of flat roofing in use today is called tar and gravel flat roofing. And it’s exactly what it sounds like. Tar spread around the roof and then gravel placed on top of the tar. Many older buildings will have this type of flat roofing system as it was extremely popular and affordable in years past. Today, tar and gravel flat roofing has become less popular but still remains on a number of buildings in Michigan and across the United States.

If you’re considering a tar and gravel roof for your commercial building or home be sure to understand that not all roofing contractors will have the ability to install tar and gravel roofs. Because the tar must be melted prior to installing it requires special melting pots in order to apply properly. Make sure your roofing contractor has access to these tools if you’re considering this type of roofing material.

Metal Roofing Materials Used in Flat Roofing

One of the more popular types of flat roofing in use today is metal roofing. Metal roofing has gained lots of popularity over the past decade. This is partially because the cost of metal roofing has gone down dramatically. However, even with prices going down over the past few years it’s still a better value to use asphalt shingles on residential homes. For commercial buildings however, the metal roofing system can be quite advantageous. Metal roofing only requires a very small fall rate in order to properly remove water from your roof. This helps tremendously with flat roofing systems because metal roofing can cover large areas with small fall rates.

Asphalt Roll Roofing Used in Flat Roofing

Another type of flat roofing that many commercial buildings have installed is asphalt roll roofing. Asphalt roll roofing is typically a cheap way to cover a roof. And some of the roofing materials may not be warrantied long. Because the roll roofing is not as thick it can be of lesser quality. So when using asphalt roll roofing on your roof be sure to get the thicker roofing materials. Thicker materials will last longer and also has a better warranty.

Rubber Roll Roofing for Flat Roofing

Just like asphalt roofing, the roll roofing made from rubber is also a great roofing material. It’s like placing a large inner tube over your commercial building. Since it’s made of rubber and glued together it makes an excellent water barrier. Although this type of roofing is one of the lesser used in the different types of flat roofing it’s one of the best.

Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor to Install Your Flat Roof

No matter what type of roofing material you choose, if you don’t get it installed correctly there will likely be problems. That’s why we only recommend properly licensed and qualified roofing contractors in Michigan. We feature roofing contractors here at Ypsilanti Roofing Company regularly. If you need a roofing contractor to install your flat roof be sure to look at some of the featured contractors we feature in the top right of this page.