To sum up the difference between flat roofs i have compiled a scoring system out of ten for domestic properties 10 being the best and 1 the worst.
Falt roof system.
Just enough slope to drain water but also flat enough to be a problem if not constructed properly.
But such a low slope holds snow and water much longer than a steeply pitched roof and therefore needs a very different material to stay watertight.
Flat roofs usually come with a 10 to 20 year warranty but can last 25 years if you build the roofs right and maintain them using commonsense rules.
The material usually organic felt or fiberglass felt is saturated in asphalt and rolled onto the roof s surface.
Astm e 1592 physical testing was performed on three test roof assemblies in order to determine the wind uplift resistance of an rsprs installed over existing structural metal panel roof systems fastened directly into purlins.
Flat roofing is not actually flat.
Vegetative roofs can effectively provide an advantageous means for storm water control.
These roofs have living plants that are typically installed in tray systems on the top of the flat roof surface.
It has a very low slope between 1 4 to 1 2 inch per foot so that it drains water.
From there the flat roof system you choose will determine the materials you apply.
Underneath the basics flat roofs are usually constructed with a ceiling nailed to joists which support a deck usually wood in residential construction a vapor barrier insulation and a roof board.
The most common of the flat roof systems are the five described below.
Wind uplift is a primary concern when installing a retrofit single ply roof system rsprs over a structural metal panel roof.
The variation in lifespan depends often on whether the flat roof holds water the amount of details and joints as well as the quality of workmanship.
Of course flat roofs are not flat but have a very slight roof pitch of between 1 4 to 1 2 per foot.