Flat roof repair and installation
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Choosing a flat roof covering can sometimes be complex, since there are many options available to homeowners, and these flat roofs require special attention.
When installing or repairing any type of flat roof, it’s important to call on professional roofers to ensure that the work is carried out to the highest industry standards.
On this page, you’ll learn about the types of coverings often installed on flat roofs in Montreal, Laval and the South Shore.
The main types of flat roof cladding installed in Montreal
In fact, the city of Montreal has the highest concentration of flat roofs in Quebec.
This is not surprising, since the majority of buildings with flat roofs are industrial, commercial or apartment buildings.
There are four main types of roofing installed in Quebec: elastomeric membrane, asphalt roofing, vinyl membrane and synthetic rubber membrane.
The first two types are considered multi-layer, while the last two are considered single-layer.
The advantages and disadvantages of these two broad categories are outlined below.
Installing an elastomeric membrane on a flat roof
This type of roofing has been installed by roofers in Quebec for over 45 years.
It’s an excellent type of cladding against common weather conditions such as temperature change, snow and high winds.
Experts in the trade agree that this type of roofing has a life expectancy of around 35 years with minimal maintenance.
It’s a profitable investment for owners of flat-roofed buildings.
Since this type of cladding is cost-effective, the majority of flat roofs in Laval, Montreal and the South Shore have this type of cladding installed.
What is elastomeric membrane for flat roofs?
Simply put, elastomeric membrane is a petroleum-based mixture similar to plastic, but very similar to rubber.
During installation, it is necessary to cover the flat roof with two layers, one after the other.
When properly installed, these two layers fuse together using the heat generated by a blowtorch.
The two layers are different from each other.
The layer installed first is the base layer.
Its purpose is to seal and protect the flat roof.
With the introduction of gravel or, sometimes, ceramic, the second layer gives color to the elastomeric roof.
This last layer allows homeowners to choose from a variety of colors when it comes to selecting the color of their flat roof.
Repairing elastomeric membranes for flat roofs
With a simple examination and inspection by a professional once a year, you can ensure that your flat roof with elastomeric membrane is well protected.
It’s possible that the flat roof on which it’s installed may need repair, since it’s subject to the enormous temperature changes and bad weather common in Quebec.
If this is the case, calling in a professional will ensure that your roof remains effective and durable for years to come.
About the installation and repair of a flat asphalt and gravel roof in Laval
Laval is another city with a high concentration of flat roofs.
That said, the second type of cladding that can be installed on a flat roof is asphalt and gravel.
There are several important points to note when choosing this type of roof.
This type of roof has an estimated lifespan of 20 to 25 years at most.
To install this type of roof, the entire flat roof is covered with four to five successive layers of felt mixed with bitumen.
Between each of these layers, the roofer introduces high-temperature asphalt and covers the whole with a thin layer of gravel.
This type of coating is completely resistant to temperature variations and as durable as you’d expect from a flat roof.
Following an annual inspection by a professional, it will be possible to ensure that the roof is watertight and, if necessary, to determine whether gravel needs to be added to the roof surface to ensure its longevity.
About vinyl membrane (TPO) repair or installation on the South Shore
Another alternative to asphalt and gravel and elastomer-coated flat roofs is “TPO” vinyl (meaning thermoplastic polyolefin).
This type of single-ply cladding, less popular with homeowners, has a rather glossy appearance, which gives it a definite advantage.
Its sheen and smoothness give vinyl membrane roofing definite advantages.
One advantage is that it’s easy to clean.
TPO membrane is also recognized as being excellent particularly for flat industrial roofs, since it offers effective protection against bacteria, mold and insect pests.
The biggest drawback of this membrane is that it is not very resistant to scratches and tears.
It is therefore important to take the necessary precautions to avoid costly and sometimes devastating tears.
Repairing and installing a synthetic rubber membrane (EPDM) in Montreal
This other type of single-ply cladding is similar to vinyl membrane.
The important difference is that the latter is installed using ultra-resistant adhesive tape or glue, as opposed to the thermofusion installation required for vinyl membrane.
Its immense resistance to bacteria, tears and mildew makes this type of flat roof covering an excellent choice for green roofs growing fruit and vegetables.
Advantages and disadvantages of multi-layer coatings for flat roofs
Each of these types of cladding has advantages and disadvantages when it comes to installation or repair.
The first two types of cladding presented here are considered multi-layered.
Elastomeric membranes and asphalt and gravel roofing offer longer-lasting coverings, but are likely to cost homeowners more to install.
They are popular with homeowners because they are easy to install and effective for the vast majority of roofs.
Advantages and disadvantages of single-layer coatings for flat roofs
Single-ply coatings, such as vinyl “TPO” or EPDP membranes, offer particular advantages.
The first advantage is that these types of roofing are entirely recyclable.
The second is that they are often less expensive than single-ply flat roofs.
The big disadvantage is that they are less durable than multi-ply roofing, with a lifespan of between 15 and 35 years.
They are mainly used for green roofs or industrial roofs with specific needs.
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