What is a Residential Low Slope Roof?
Bob Harvey Roofing • April 19, 2022
At the outset, a residential low slope roof has a small or minimal steepness to it. Also known as a flat roof, a residential low slope roof is used across:
Large Residential Projects
Instances of low slope roofs can be found in a range of large residential projects including condominiums, townhouses, and row homes.
Small Residential Projects
These projects include garages or porches that are built as transitions from the main structure of the home.
Where are Low Slope Roofs Most Common?
Residential low slope roofs are common architectural features in dry, arid regions that do not experience an ample amount of rainfall or precipitation.
As these roofs have little to no slope, water damage can be a common occurrence in areas of high rainfall and moisture. Moreover, if the right materials are not used to construct the roof, the stagnation of water can cause leaks, resulting in high costs for repair as well as adverse effects on the aesthetics of the home.
Low slope roofs are also popular among businesses and commercial units as they are more cost-effective than sloping roofs. The flat space on top also provides an area where the business can store equipment or air conditioners for the building.
Choosing The Right Low Slope Roof Option?
If you are looking to choose the right kind of material for your low slope roof project, it is important to focus on durability and strength as it must be resistant to several factors such as the weather, foot traffic, and debris. A few factors to consider before deciding on the material for your low slope roof include the:
- Climate
- Costs and budget
- Longevity
- Look and aesthetics
Common Low Slope Roof Options
If you are considering a low slope roof for your home, understanding the different options can help you pick the right one for you. The main types of low slope roofs are:
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
This roof is made out of flat sheet metal in the center with vertical ribs where the panel edges are, giving it a modern, streamlined aesthetic.
Built-up Roof (BUR)
Also known as a tar and gravel roof, this type of low slope roof provides excellent insulation and protection as it comprises layers of reinforcing fabrics and bitumen. The continuous sealed surface of this type of roof prevents water seepage and damage.
Modified Bitumen
This type of low slope roof uses asphalt roofing sheets that are modified by plastic or rubber. In some projects, the BUR and modified bitumen options are combined to create a hybrid roofing system.
Single-ply
In a single-ply low slope roof, large panels of plastic membrane are rolled and welded onto the surface. The types of plastic membrane used in this roofing system are:
- Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO)
- Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
For more information on low slope roofing and how it can be installed at your premises,
contact roofing experts
Bob Harvey Roofing right now.
