Exploring Commercial Flat Roofing Options? Here’s What You Should Know
Commercial flat roofing is a popular choice for large buildings due to its cost efficiency and versatility. At Anchor Roofing, we specialize in installing durable, high-performance flat roofs for Omaha businesses.
In commercial roofing, flat roof systems are among the most common. This type of roof design is particularly effective for larger facilities, as the lower roof pitch helps to greatly reduce the materials needed to fully cover commercial buildings such as storefronts, warehouses, and offices.
If you’re in need of a new flat roofing system for a commercial property, however, it can be difficult to know where to begin. To help you plan your new roof—or just understand your existing roof a bit better—we’re providing a full breakdown of commercial flat roofing.
What Is a Flat Roofing System?
“Flat” is a bit of a misleading term in the commercial roofing space. This is because all roofs, no matter the application, must have at least some slope per building codes and regulations. The reason for this is simple: if a roof were truly flat, water would be less likely to run off, leading to major issues such as roof leaks.
Instead of a truly flat roof, “flat roofing” describes a roofing system with a slope that generally falls between ¼/12 and ½/12. What this means is that for every 12 inches of “run” (or horizontal distance), the roof “rises” between a quarter inch and half an inch. For comparison, residential roofing systems generally have a slope of somewhere between 4/12 and 8/12 (though some roofs will be steeper).
Why Are Flat Roofs Used?
Flat roofing is used in the commercial roofing space for a variety of reasons. Because commercial buildings frequently have more of a practical purpose than an aesthetic one, many of these reasons are entirely functional. The benefits of a flat roofing system include:
- Cost efficiency (requiring less materials)
- Space efficiency (as flat roofs maximize interior area)
- Easier maintenance and access
- Versatility and support for roof-mounted systems, such as HVAC units
These benefits make flat roofing a straightforward and cost-effective choice for many property owners. Flat roofing is often the top choice for a wide range of applications, including:
- Office buildings
- Manufacturing facilities
- Warehouses, storage facilities, and distribution centers
- Storefronts and businesses
- Apartment complexes and other multifamily housing
What Is Best for a Commercial Flat Roof?
Flat roofs offer a number of benefits for commercial roofing applications. However, if not effectively installed, property owners may face any of a variety of flat roof problems.
Avoiding these issues will depend on a number of factors, but one of the most important ways to ensure a long-lasting roofing system is to choose the right material for your needs and the construction of your roof.
Best Materials for Commercial Flat Roofs:
- TPO: Durable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective
- EPDM: Long-lasting and flexible, ideal for various climates
- PVC: Resistant to chemicals, fire, and harsh weather
- Built-Up Roofing (BUR): Traditional gravel or tar-based system
Not all roofing materials will be suitable for a flat roof. For example, metal roofing is ideal for most commercial roofing applications, but will not always be the best choice for a flat roof.
On the other hand, single-ply membranes such as EPDM, TPO, and PVC are often the best choices. Consult with a commercial roofing professional to determine the right material for your situation.
How Much Does a Commercial Flat Roof Cost?
Flat roofing is a very cost-effective option for commercial buildings. The final cost of a flat roof will vary substantially however, often ranging from around $4 to $12 per square foot of roofing area. Factors impacting the cost include:
- Size of the roof (larger roofs will cost more overall, but less per square foot)
- Type of material used
- Complexity of the roof
- Required pre-installation work, such as repairs or tear-off of an existing roofing system
Anchor Roofing: Commercial Flat Roofing Experts in Omaha, NE
At Anchor Roofing, our commercial roofing professionals have a wealth of experience in flat roof designs covering a range of materials. Our experts are focused on delivering superior quality above all else, and we work closely with our customers to determine the right materials and design to meet the needs of their building or facility.
Whether you need a new roof installed or are looking to maintain an existing roofing system, Anchor Roofing is standing by to protect your property. Reach out to us today to schedule an inspection and get a quote.
