For those in the Philadelphia area with flat roofs, putting shingles on them is not a good idea. This can do more harm than good. Shingles are designed to work on roofs with a slope, where water can run off easily. On a sloped roof, rainwater flows down and off the roof thanks to gravity. Shingles are laid in overlapping rows, which helps keep water from getting underneath. But on a flat roof, there’s little to no slope, so water tends to sit and form puddles. When water stays on a roof too long, it can start to seep under the shingles and cause leaks, rot, and even damage inside your home. At this point it is time to contact your local service provider such as Cover All Exteriors. Leaks can lead to very costly repairs if they are not fixed by a professional.
Another problem is that shingles wear out faster when they stay wet. Flat roofs don’t drain well, so shingles on them can stay damp for long periods. This causes them to break down much quicker than they would on a properly sloped roof. That means you’ll likely need to replace or repair the roof much sooner, which can be costly. Most manufacturers also don’t allow their shingles to be used on flat or low-slope roofs. If you install shingles on a flat roof and something goes wrong, the company that made the shingles probably won’t honor the warranty. That leaves you with no coverage for repairs or replacement. Also, many local building codes don’t allow shingles on flat roofs. If your roof doesn’t meet code, you could be fined or even forced to redo the entire roof the right way.
What Material Can Be Used?
A great choice of material to use is EPDM, which is a rubber roofing material that comes in large sheets. Because it has very few seams, there are fewer spots for water to leak through. EPDM is known for being durable, weather-resistant, and long-lasting. TPO roofing is another single-layer membrane often used on flat roofs. It’s light colored, which helps reflect sunlight and reduce cooling costs in hot climates. PVC roofing is similar to TPO but offers better resistance to chemicals and grease, making it more ideal for commercial buildings such as restaurants.
Overall, shingles are a bad choice for flat roofs because they can’t handle standing water and won’t last long. The Philadelphia area can experience some destructive weather during the year. High rain fall can quickly destroy your roof in this case. You could end up with leaks, costly repairs, or even legal trouble. If you have a flat roof, it’s best to use a material that’s designed for it. That way, your roof will last longer, protect your home better, and save you money in the long run. Although this process can seem confusing and difficult, Cover All Exteriors is here to help. Our highly skilled experts are ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your roofing or siding. Give us a call today and schedule your free estimate.