If you are in the market for a flat roof, there is good news. The top technology available is both more affordable and better for the environment than roofing techniques of the past.
A “Single Ply” roof has a very distinctive look. It is white and reflects the sun. This reflective surface helps to dramatically conserve on energy and the material is much more durable than a traditional tar roof.
A roof that lasts longer and reduces energy costs means less money spent on maintenance and cooling. In addition removing old roofs can be avoided with this light weight replacement of older, heavier roofs. This means less garbage in our landfills equaling less energy and money to deal with tons trash.
The traditional flat roof has been made up of layers and layers of hot tar with paper between. Every gallon of tar mopped onto a roof has brought with it billows of smoke filtering up into the sky. To say nothing of tar burns on innocent workers.
Hot tar no longer makes sense as a choice for your flat roof. Why use hot tar, when the roofing industry has come up with a superior solution that lasts longer, produces no harmful fumes, is recyclable and has a surface that reflects the sun (saving on energy bills)?
For a truly “green” roof, there is even a flat roofing option that acts like a garden. Trees, bushes and grass are planted on top of the single ply roofing material. This live roof helps to retain water, purify the air and is aesthetically pleasing. These roofs can really help to beautify previously drab-looking buildings and homes.
Hot tar has been the standard in flat roofing for decades. There are many companies that still specialize in it and therefore still recommend it. Make sure to shop around and find a company that specializes in single ply. If you compare the two, it will be hard to miss the advantages of single ply. These “greener”, longer-lasting roofs are taking over the industry for a reason.
Read more articles by Tommy Scherer or click to learn more about reliable roofing contractors in Los Angeles.