What Materials Should I Use On A Low-Slope Roof?
What Materials Should I Use On A Low-Slope Roof?
A slop roof is a type of roof with slopes up to 3 degrees. The low-slope roof can be made from Standing Seam Metal Roofing, Built-up roof (BUR) membranes, Modified Bitumen, Single-ply, and Roofed Roofing.
1. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam roofing is sheet metal with a flat core and vertical ribs at the panel borders to provide a smooth, streamlined look. It is used in low-slope roofing applications.
It consists of a top track and bottom tracks connected by vertical ribs that run parallel to the edge of the panel. The core is rolled between the top and bottom tracks, giving it a flat profile.
It is the most weather-tight metal roofing system since it is fastened with concealed fasteners and does not have screws through the surface like corrugated metal roofing.
There are three types of standing seam panels. A twin lock mechanically seamed system should be employed for optimal weather tightness on a low slope roof application. This sort of standing seam roof is ideal for locations with intense weather.
2. Built-Up Roof (BUR) Membranes
A BUR (built-up roof) system, commonly known as a “tar and gravel” roof, is made up of alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing textiles, such as felt paper, and is completed with gravel. The multi-layer design provides outstanding protection and insulation.
BUR roofing has been around for over a century and is a long-lasting, low-slope option. It creates a continuous sealed surface that resists water since it is put in huge sheets.
3. Modified Bitumen
Treated bitumen (mod bit) roofs are built of asphalt roofing sheets modified with rubber or plastic. Mod bit roofs and BUR systems are similar in that they are put in many plies. The difference lies in the addition of modified bitumen to the asphalt.
Modified bitumen roofing first appeared on the market in the 1970s as an improved form of a built-up roof with higher flexibility and the capacity to withstand significant temperature swings than BUR.
Sometimes the two are mixed, resulting in a “hybrid roofing system.” The modified bitumen functions as the BUR roofing system’s top layer in these cases.
4. Single-ply.
A single-ply roof is made up of large sheets of the plastic membrane that are rolled out and welded together over the roof’s surface. The end product is a weathertight, long-lasting roof.
The three primary membrane types used for single-ply roofing are:
- a) TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): The most prevalent and cost-effective material.
- b) EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): A black surface useful for melting snow and gaining heat in cold areas.
- c) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Highly reflective, it can help save energy in hot climes.
5. Rolled Roofing
Rolled roofing, often known as asphalt roll, is a big roll of mineral-surfaced oil-based asphalt. It comes in a range of colors, styles, and textures.
While asphalt roll and asphalt shingles are similar in appearance, asphalt roll is not as sturdy, appealing, or long-lasting as asphalt shingles.
Rolled roofing has a lifespan of just 5-8 years. Rolling roofing is best employed as an inexpensive, temporary roofing option or for applications on garages or sheds due to its ease of installation.
Can You Put A Metal Roof On A Low Slope?
Yes, metal roofing solutions, such as a standing seam roof or a corrugated metal roof, are appropriate for non-flat low-slope applications. These metal panels come in big sheets that span the whole length of your roof, from ridge to gutter.
The panel sheets are held together with concealed fasteners, which means no screws will show. The panels are also folded at the factory to create a smooth, streamlined look.
They must be topped off with trim, accessories, and flashings matching the panels’ profile and color. Note: Non-metallic panels used for low-slope applications should not be used over gables or hips because wind forces may cause the panels to pop off during installation.
