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Roofing Materials Used For Flat Roofs

By: Kris Koonar

The roof plays an important role in maintaining and enhancing the look to your home. With the changing climatic conditions, it has become necessary to select proper roofing material. Today majority of the people concentrate on buying light weight and durable roofs. The need of different type of roofing materials depends on several factors such as the location, weather conditions and natural elements.

For a flat roof, you must consider that the roof provides a water proof casing for the apartment. Generally in flat roofs there are one or two layers of materials for water resistance. The flat roof should be designed in such a way that the accumulated water can be directed into gutters, downspouts and drains to avoid accumulation of water. The materials that are used in flat roofs should not only be long lasting but also cost effective. Here are a few roofing materials that can be used in flat roofs, as per the need and requirement.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin Roofing Membrane also known as TPO is one of the popular and latest materials used and available in the market. Thermoplastic Polyolefin Roofing Material is a single ply. It consists of three layers that make the roof strong and durable to survive in any condition. This material has an arrangement on the outer part of the roof and a thermal insulation barrier in the middle and then a water proof layer that holds the entire roof. The material of this roof is very efficient and reusable if installed with care.

You can also fit the roof with the help of tar or pebbles. As it has been only 10 years since thermoplastic polyolefin roofing membranes have been introduced and hence, its life span can not be determined. Thermoplastic polyolefin roofing is very durable and effective and consists of a low toxicity, as it consists of petrochemicals. TPO can not be recycled.

Elastomeric membrane also known as EPDM roofing material is generally used for commercial and industrial purposes. Made out of ethylene propylene rubber, elastomeric membranes is also a single ply. You can install EPDM either with the help of mechanical fastening or by ballasting. The roofing material is reusable and is effective. It has a lifespan of about 20 plus years; however Elastomeric membranes are found to shrink in certain conditions.

In the market since 1960, Polyvinyl chloride or PVC has been a trusted and widely used roofing material. It has a good record for usage among any thermo plastic roofing membranes. The material has many features and hence it has been preferred by many even after other flat roofs came into the market. It can be manufactured in multiple colors and is fire resistant and protective. Polyvinyl chloride is favorable and strong in any weather conditions. It has a lifespan of 25 plus years. PVC is effective in every sense, the only setback of this material is that it can not be recycled or reused.

Mastic asphalt is one the most durable and trusted materials. It is known as the best waterproofing membrane available in the market. It is effective, flexible and long lasting as it can last for more than 60 years. Mastic asphalt is strong at any temperature; it is odorless, recyclable and non toxic.

Article Source: http://www.articlekingpro.com

Are you thinking about getting a Metal Roof or a Flat Roof? Read this free report on the insiders guide to metal roofing before you make a decision. www.classicmetalroofs.com/vp/index.php

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