Flat roof and flat roof repair and installation
Do you want to know the price for the repair or replacement of your flat roof? You are in the right place!
The choice of flat roofing can sometimes be complex since there are several options available to homeowners and these flat roofs require particular attention. During installation or the roof repair flat, regardless of the type of roof, it is important to use professional roofers to ensure that the work is subject to the highest standards in the industry. On this page, you will learn the types of covers that are often installed on flat roofs in the city of Montreal, Laval and on the South Shore.
The main types of flat roof coatings installed in the city of Montreal
Indeed, the city of Montreal is the place where the highest concentration of flat roofs is found in Quebec. This is not surprising since the majority of buildings with a flat roof are industrial, commercial or residential buildings. There are four main types of coatings that are installed in Quebec: elastomeric membranes, asphalt roofs, vinyl membranes and synthetic rubber membranes. The first two types are considered multi-layered, while the latter two are considered monolayer. The advantages and disadvantages of these two main categories are outlined below.
The installation of an elastomeric membrane on a flat roof
This type of roof has been installed in Quebec for over 45 years by roofers. It is an excellent type of coating against common weather conditions such as temperature change, snow, and high winds. Specialists in the field agree that this type of roof has a life expectancy of around 35 years with minimal maintenance. It is a profitable investment for owners of buildings with flat roofs. Since this type of coating is profitable, the majority of flat roofs in the city of Laval, the city of Montreal and on the South Shore have this type of coating installed.
What is the elastomeric membrane for flat roofs
Simply put, the elastomeric membrane is a mixture made from petroleum, similar to plastic, very similar to rubber. During installation, it is necessary to cover the flat roof in two layers, one after the other. When properly installed, these two layers fuse together thanks to the use of heat released by a torch.
The two layers are different from each. The layer that comes first is the base coat. Its objective is to ensure watertightness and to properly protect the flat roof. Thanks to the introduction of gravel or, sometimes even, ceramic, the second layer gives color to the elastomeric roof. This final coat allows homeowners to choose from a variety of colors when it comes time to choose the color of the flat roof.
Repair of elastomeric membrane for flat roofs
With a simple examination and inspection done once a year by a professional, it is possible to ensure the good protection of the flat roof with elastomeric membrane. It is possible that the flat roof on which the latter is installed may require repair, since it is subject to the change in enormous temperatures and the bad weather common in Quebec. If this is the case, calling in a professional will allow you to 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 in the city of Laval
The city of Laval is another city where we find a high concentration of flat roofs. That said, the second type of coating that can be installed on a flat roof is asphalt and gravel. There are several things that are important to note when it is time to choose this type of roof.
This type of roof has an estimated lifespan of around 20 to 25 years at most. As a result, the installation of this roof consists in covering the entire flat roof with four to five successive layers of felt mixed with bitumen. Between each of these layers, the roofer will introduce asphalt at a very high temperature and cover everything with a thin layer of gravel.
This type of coating is completely resistant to temperature differences and durable as one would expect from a flat roof. Following an annual inspection by a professional, it will be possible to ensure the tightness of the roof and, if necessary, to know if it is necessary to add gravel to the roof surface in order to ensure its longevity.
About a repair or installation of a vinyl membrane (TPO) on the South Shore
Another alternative to the asphalt and gravel roof as well as to the flat roof with elastomeric coating is a flat vinyl roof “TPO” (meaning polyolefin thermoplastic). This type of single-layer coating that is less popular with homeowners has a rather glossy appearance, which gives it a definite advantage. Its sheen and the fact that it is smooth give vinyl membrane roofs certain advantages. One of the benefits of this one is that it is easy to clean.
The TPO membrane is also known to be excellent, particularly for flat industrial roofs, since it offers effective protection against bacteria, mold and insect pests. The biggest flaw with this membrane is that it is not very resistant to possible scratches and tears. It is therefore important to take the necessary precautions in order to avoid tears that are costly and sometimes devastating.
Repairing and installing a synthetic rubber membrane (EPDM) in Montreal
This other type of single-layer coating is similar to vinyl membranes. The important difference is that the latter is installed using adhesive tape or an ultra-resistant glue unlike the hot-melt installation that the vinyl membrane requires. Its immense resistance to bacteria, tears, and mildew makes this type of flat roof coating an excellent choice for green roofs that grow fruits and vegetables.
Advantages and disadvantages of multi-layer coating types for flat roofs
Each of its types of coatings has advantages and disadvantages when it is time to install or repair them. The first two types of coatings presented are considered multilayered. The elastomeric membrane and the asphalt and gravel cover offer a longer lasting coating, but may cost owners more during installation. 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 coating types for flat roofs
Single-layer coatings, either the “TPO” vinyl membrane or the EPDP membrane, offer particular advantages. The first advantage comes from the fact that these types of roofs are entirely recyclable. The second advantage is that they often have a lower price when compared to single-layer roofs for flat roofs. Their major disadvantage is that the latter are less durable than multi-layer blankets, since they have a lifespan of between 15 and 35 years. They are mostly used for green or industrial roofs with specific needs.
