Flat Roof Installation Contractors
Flat roof installation represents a specialized area of roofing that requires specific expertise and understanding of unique drainage requirements and material characteristics. Unlike sloped roofing systems that naturally shed water through gravity, flat roofs demand precise installation techniques to ensure proper water management and long-term performance. At Five Star Roofing, we specialize in three primary flat roofing systems: TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), and torch down roofing, each offering distinct advantages for different commercial and residential applications.
The flat roofing industry has evolved significantly over the past two decades, with modern materials offering superior durability and energy efficiency compared to traditional built-up roofing systems. Current market research indicates that the commercial flat roofing sector alone represents approximately 40% of all commercial roofing projects nationwide, with TPO roof installations accounting for nearly 35% of that market share due to their excellent energy-reflecting properties and cost-effectiveness. Our experience since 1994 has positioned us at the forefront of these technological advances, allowing us to deliver cutting-edge flat roof installations that meet contemporary building standards and energy codes.
TPO Roof Installation Process and Benefits
TPO roofing has become increasingly popular for commercial flat roof installations due to its exceptional heat-reflective properties and resistance to ultraviolet light, ozone, and chemical exposure. The installation process begins with thorough deck preparation, ensuring the substrate is clean, dry, and structurally sound. We then install appropriate insulation layers, typically polyisocyanurate boards, which provide excellent R-value ratings essential for energy efficiency. The TPO roof membrane itself comes in rolls ranging from 10 to 20 feet wide and is available in thicknesses from 45 to 80 mils, with 60-mil being the most common specification for commercial applications.
The actual membrane attachment involves either mechanical fastening, full adhesion, or ballasted systems, depending on building specifications and local wind uplift requirements. Heat welding creates watertight seams between membrane sections, using specialized equipment that heats the material to approximately 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, creating molecular bonds stronger than the membrane itself. This installation method eliminates the need for adhesives or solvents at seams, reducing environmental impact and ensuring consistent seal quality regardless of weather conditions during installation.
EPDM and Torch Down Roofing Applications
EPDM roofing, commonly known as rubber roofing, offers exceptional durability with documented lifespans exceeding 30 years when properly installed and maintained. This synthetic rubber membrane resists weathering, abrasion, and extreme temperatures, making it ideal for buildings in Long Island, NY and surrounding areas where seasonal temperature variations can stress roofing materials. EPDM roof installation involves either fully adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted systems, with each method offering specific advantages based on building design and usage requirements.
Torch down roofing, technically known as modified bitumen roofing, combines traditional asphalt roofing reliability with modern polymer modifications for enhanced flexibility and durability. The installation process involves heating the underside of the membrane sheets with propane torches, creating a molten adhesive layer that bonds permanently to the substrate or underlying membrane layer. This method creates exceptionally strong waterproofing, particularly beneficial for flat roofs with heavy foot traffic or equipment installations. Multiple layers can be applied for increased protection, with cap sheets featuring ceramic granules providing additional UV protection and aesthetic appeal.
Critical Factors for Successful Flat Roof Installation
Proper drainage design stands as the most crucial element in flat roof installation success. Despite their name, flat roofs require a minimum slope of 1/4 inch per foot to ensure adequate water drainage toward designated drainage points. We calculate precise tapered insulation layouts to create proper drainage patterns while maintaining consistent R-values across the roof surface. This attention to drainage detail prevents ponding water, which represents the primary cause of premature flat roof failure.
- Substrate evaluation: comprehensive inspection of existing decking for structural integrity and moisture content
- Vapor barrier installation: prevention of moisture migration from building interior into roofing system
- Insulation selection: matching thermal resistance requirements with compatibility for chosen membrane system
- Flashing details: specialized attention to penetrations, edges, and transitions ensuring complete waterproofing
- Quality control measures: systematic inspection protocols throughout installation phases
Our dedication to excellence means we never overlook these critical installation factors. Established in 1994, Five Star Roofing combines three decades of specialized experience with continuous innovation in flat roofing techniques. Our roof installers maintain the fastest turnaround times across Hempstead, Freeport, Levittown, Farmingdale, West Babylon and Babylon, NY while scheduling installations seven days per week from 7 AM to 7 PM, accommodating both commercial operational requirements and residential convenience needs. Our drone technology enables precise pre-installation inspections and documentation, ensuring accurate material calculations and identifying potential challenges before work begins.
