How to know if its time for flat roof replacement
Commercial and industrial structures are known for having a flat roof. Why? Because of money and safety. Building a sloped roof on a residential structure is less dangerous and isn’t as costly as it would be a on a commercial or industrial structure.
In fact, in many ways, a pitched roof a large commercial or industrial structure is almost impossible. Of course, with the technology and tools available today, it is possible if the owner of the building has the budget and a contractor willing to do the work. Although, flat roofing experts recommend against pitched or sloped roofing on a large structure due to the future issue possibilities.
Seriously though, are flat roofs really flat? No, a flat roof is not completely flat. It is common sense that water can’t drain from a flat surface, and when that flat surface is a flat roof, the trouble it could create for the structure supporting it is monumental. There is a low slope to the roof, as little as ¼ an inch and as much as half an inch per foot.
It is because of the low slope to a flat roof, there must be adequate drainage and that flat roofs are made of right roofing material is a must to provide the watertight surface needed. So, is a flat roof worth the concern and common question of “Do flat roofs always leak?”. We’ll answer that by stating that flat roofs do not ‘always’ leak, but yes, the are prone to leak.
Even with the workmanship set aside, every sloped or flat roof can have the possibility to develop a leak. With good roofing material and proper maintenance, a flat roof can last 30 years or more before any issues like leaking begin.
What are flat roofs called?
BUR (Built-Up Roof Systems)
Metal Panel Roof Systems
Modified Bitumen Membranes
Single-Ply Membrane
The last three are a single ply flat roof membrane available in a EPDM, PVC, or TPO in wide sheets from the factory that is installed to the roof with an adhesive.
What is the best material for a flat roof?

How long do flat roofs last?
A commercial flat roof that is installed correctly by a professional and has proper maintenance and upkeep by the building owner can last up to 40 years. The type of material used, and the climate can affect this lifespan, and in some areas, with lack of maintenance and upkeep, could last as little as 10 years.