Commercial flat roofs can be significantly more cost effective to build than pitched roofs or steep slope roofs because they require less material due to the fewer square feet to be covered.

They are easier and quicker to install, which can translate to a significant savings for the building owner. This also effects the ease and potential price of your next commercial roof repair.

Owners have many types of flat roofing materials and membranes to choose from – rubber rolled roofing, EPDM, PVC, TPO, bitumen, modified bitumen and built-up roofing.

One disadvantage, however, is that standing water can degrade the roofing materials long before they normally would. This could lead to materials breakdown which could then lead to leaking and water damage inside the building.

Low-sloped roofs are often found on factories, warehouses, apartment buildings and other industrial buildings. They may first appear to be flat but they actually have a slight pitch.

The pitch of low-sloped roofs allows for water runoff. The roof design directs the water to where it should go, such as valleys, saddles and drains. Roof area is less than with high-pitched roofs, requiring fewer square footage of roofing materials.

Low-sloped roofs offer easier and safer conditions for roofers to work on than high-pitched roofs or steep slope roofs.

However, one disadvantage of this type of roof is that heavy snow, or snow that does not melt quickly can add weight to the roof. Building codes in Osoyoos regarding low-sloped roof must be adhered to precisely.

While pitched roofs are seen in residential homes more than commercial buildings, they are still commonly used.

The main benefit of pitched roofs on commercial buildings is that the increased slope provides greater runoff for water and snow. This can be important as snow can be an issue in Osoyoos and the south Okanagan.

The steeper the roof structure, the easier it is for liquid and debris to roll off. Ultimately this means less risk for water buildup that could lead to leaks and mold damage.

However, with the steep incline of a pitched roof it is significantly more difficult to perform maintenance and repair.

The need for increased safety procedures surrounding transferring materials as well as difficulties associated with maneuvering around the roof generally increases the costs of the roof installation or repair.

EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene methylene. This is a durable, darker synthetic rubber material primarily used in flat and low-sloped roofs in and around Osoyoos.

While most EPDM rubber roofs are black, they can also be done in a white coating which will help with reflecting the suns heat off of the rooftop. This may also be important as the south Okanagan can get very warm, especially in the summer.

Due to it’s rubber properties, it is able to easily stretch and form-fit to any roof.

However, the hot weather we get in the south Okanagan can cause the membrane to shrink, causing tears which could lead to water getting under the membrane. Adhesives and seam tape can degrade from UV sunlight, allowing water to flow under the membrane as well, which could lead to damage, if not noticed early and repaired quickly.