Some houses with low-sloped roofs may need a different approach as far as protective solutions go. As noted by the Chicago Tribune’s Mike McClintock:
Covering low-slope and flat roofs used to be one of stinkiest procedures in all of construction. That’s stinkiest literally, as in steaming buckets of hot tar with an odor something between creosoted telephone poles and an oil spill. But that approach, called a hot-mopped or built-up roof — and to some degree roll roofing as well — have been replaced by single ply. This thin, rubbery sheeting is lighter, easier to install and seals better at overlapped seams. By design, most houses have roofs with a slope steep enough for traditional overlapping shingles that shed water as it runs down to a gutter. But many of those houses also have an addition, shed or porch with a low slope or nearly flat roof. And as the slope decreases, so does the water-shedding effect of gravity — down to very low slope and flat roofs where water can puddle. This information should strike a chord with many residents in Danvers, MA. This Essex County town has varied styles of architecture spread amongst the houses. While some houses have roofs built at steep angles, others have more modest slopes for easier access. A sizeable number of these homes sport EPDM roofing systems instead of shingles and metal sheets, and have used them to good effect. EPDM, which stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, is another name for single-ply or rubber roofing. If you’re thinking of having rubber roofing installed on your home, you should contact contractors that specialize in rubber roofing in Danvers, MA, like A&A services. EPDM roofing systems consist of large membrane rolls that are gradually laid out on the existing surface, with a fiberboard underlayment sandwiched in between. An evaluation of the roof will reveal whether the rolls are to be bonded with the underlayment via heat or fasteners. In many cases, EPDM roofing can be installed over existing roofing systems, which eliminates the need for timely and expensive removals. Many roofing contractors require a minimum gradient to prevent water retention and puddling. The minimum slope is often listed on the material, and different types of roofing materials will require different angles. Gutters may need to be added to drain surface runoff. When rubber or EPDM roofing is installed correctly, it will remain durable and functional for years to come. A certified Danvers roofer can also cover EPDM roofing with either black or white coatings, which can boost the home’s energy efficiency by regulating UV rays. (Article Excerpt and Image from Single-ply rules the low-slung roof; Chicago Tribune)
