A Flat roof is the most popular roofing style in the Bronx, New York. The term can be slightly misleading but a flat roof is technically any roof with a 10-degree pitch or less. The flat roof has many benefits, running from price and ease of maintenance to being a practical solution for creating outdoor space.

Here are basic tips of what to consider when replacing a flat roof:

What is the best material to put on a flat roof?

Flat roofs come in various materials that each range in prices and expected life spans. A few of the most popular options are:

EPDM (Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber) – A type of single-ply roofing material that can be found anywhere and is quick to apply. It has lower costs and is guaranteed for a 30 year period.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin single-ply roofing) – this is another single-ply material that is very popular in the green community since it can come in white which is more energy-efficient. 

Modified bitumen – is newer material made of a combined rubber or plastic materials plus asphalt for reinforcement. These roofs are easy to maintain and can last 20 years or more.

Metal – metal has long been used in traditional roofs for many years and can be used for flat roofs as well. Known for its strength and long life space it can be a great option despite its higher initial costs.

How often should a flat roof be inspected?

Inspections allow for catching problems before they become serious, thus saving costs and time down the road. It is suggested that at least 2 times a year an inspector comes to check the flat roof and in the fall and spring is a good schedule (before and after the Bronx snowfall). 

There is a stereotype that flat roofs can leak more, and this is party true IF there was not a quality installation job. Since the pitch of the roof is less than a shingled roof, there must be proper sealant and waterproofing material to prevent damage from snow and rain. Inspections help by checking the places on the roof which can lead to larger issues.

How much does it cost to replace a flat roof?

As mentioned above the material used in the flat roof varies in price. On average in the Bronx area, a flat roof installation will cost between $3-$6 per square foot.

If you have found a leak or in the roof, it is vital to repair it as soon as possible and this can be about $300-$500.

What weight can my flat roof support?

Flat roofs are not always made for heavyweight or even to be walked on. It is important to speak with your roofing professional to learn the capacity of the roof. Some flat roofs are built reinforced for the purpose of creating rooftop patios or gardens, but if you are not certain it is not worth the risk. There are minor ways to mitigate the risk like laying down wooden boards to walk on if you must go up on the roof to check something on your own.

Royal Roofing & Siding Bronx 1231 Lafayette Avenue 2nd Floor Bronx, NY 10474 (718) 395-5061