Types of Flat Roofing Systems to Consider: Insights from a Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Bucktown, Chicago
In Bucktown, Chicago, flat roofing is found on commercial buildings more often than residential structures — however, that doesn’t mean you can’t have one installed on your home. Some homeowners prefer a flat roofing system over tile or asphalt shingle roofing systems for several reasons.
With that said, it’s important to consider the relevant factors when choosing to install a flat roof. These include the local weather, upkeep, and materials, all of which can affect how well your roofing system serves its function. Before rushing to a decision, you should start by getting familiar with the three most popular types of flat roofs in Bucktown, Chicago, which we will review below.
Built-Up Roof (BUR)
A BUR system is a popular roofing choice for buildings with flat roofs or a low slope in Bucktown, Chicago. It has been in use in the United States for over a century now. The hot-tar-and-gravel roof is a classic type of flat roofing made up of several layers of waterproof material alternating with a layer of smooth river stone and hot tar. Nowadays, these roofs, which used to be made with tar paper, are increasingly being replaced with more modern materials like fiberglass membranes.
BURs are beneficial because they are composed of gravel, which is a fire-resistant material. The drawback, however, is that BURs are known to be rather heavy, and their joists may need to be reinforced on occasion. Since installation can be a tedious procedure that is not advised for inhabited houses, it is best to find specialists to handle the work.
Modified Bitumen (MB) Roofing System
Modified bitumen roofing is an asphalt-based roofing system that’s designed for low-slope or “flat” roof constructions in Bucktown, Chicago. This system is a close relative of the BUR, as it uses a single-ply rolling roof with a mineral-based wear surface, comparable to a water and ice shield. The glue is heated while the material is unrolled in torch-down systems.
The MB roof is made of an easy-to-install peel-and-stick material, with the newer systems being simpler to use and more secure. Its light-colored mineral surface reflects heat and helps you save money on your utility costs. It is in the middle of the pack in terms of pricing.
Modified Bitumen Roofs are not as scuff and tear-resistant compared to rubber membrane roofs.
Rubber Roof Membrane
A Rubber Roof Membrane utilizes ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) that is a genuine rubber. The single-ply membrane material looks like an inner tube, but it is designed to withstand sun damage. The Rubber Roof Membrane can be ballasted, glued or mechanically fastened using fasteners.
This type of flat roof is great because it is relatively simple to install. The material is lightweight yet extremely resistant to rips and scruffs, and leaks are simple to repair. While light-colored coatings add 30% or more to the cost of the typical black material, which absorbs heat, even the black variant is more expensive than BUR or modified bitumen. It is also more prone to punctures than some other options.
Rubber roofs may last for 30 to 50 years with no upkeep. If placed correctly, you may never have to worry about cracking or leaking.
Partner with the Top-Rated Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Bucktown, Chicago
As you now know, a flat roofing system in Bucktown, Chicago must be maintained and repaired regularly. If you are looking to add a flat roof to your home or commercial building in Bucktown, the experts at Chicago Roofing & Tuckpointing Guru can help. As the top-rated roofing and tuckpointing contractor in the Bucktown area, we know how to repair, install, and maintain each of the flat roofing systems reviewed above. To request a free roofing estimate, contact us today at (773) 501-5758.
