Flat Roof Repairs and Coatings

1. Modified Bitumen Roofing

• What It Is: Modified bitumen is a flexible and durable roofing material made from asphalt that is combined with rubber or plastic polymers and reinforced with fiberglass layers.
• How It’s Applied: Typically installed in rolls, using heat-welding or self-adhering sheets to ensure a secure bond.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Excellent at withstanding the intense sunlight common in Tucson.
  • A budget-friendly option with solid durability.
  • Easy to maintain and repair.

2. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

• What It Is: A traditional flat roofing system composed of alternating layers of asphalt, tar, or adhesives, paired with reinforcement materials such as fiberglass or roofing felt.
• How It’s Applied: Several layers are built up and finished with a top layer of gravel or reflective coating.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Long-lasting and durable when maintained properly.
  • Great for insulation, helping to keep homes cooler in the Tucson heat.
  • The gravel layer provides additional UV protection.

3. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) Roofing

• What It Is: A single-ply membrane made from a mix of polypropylene and rubber, designed for energy efficiency and durability.
• How It’s Applied: Seams are heat-welded to form a watertight surface.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Reflects sunlight, reducing cooling costs during Arizona’s hot summers.
  • Stands up well to UV exposure, heat, and ozone.
  • Lightweight and easy to install.

4. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Roofing

• What It Is: A synthetic rubber material often chosen for flat roofs due to its flexibility and weather resistance.
• How It’s Applied: Typically adhered, fastened, or ballasted with gravel to secure it in place.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Strong resistance to extreme heat and cold.
  • Cost-effective and simple to repair.
  • Long-lasting, even with minimal upkeep.

5. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Roofing

• What It Is: A single-ply roofing material known for its strength and energy efficiency.
• How It’s Applied: Seams are heat-sealed for watertight protection, offering a smooth and durable finish.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Reflective properties help reduce cooling costs.
  • Resistant to fire, grease, and chemical exposure.
  • Low maintenance and extremely durable.

6. Foam Roofing (SPF – Sprayed Polyurethane Foam)

• What It Is: A lightweight roofing material applied as a liquid that expands into a solid foam, creating a seamless and insulated surface.
• How It’s Applied: The foam is sprayed directly onto the roof and covered with a UV-resistant coating.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Seamless application eliminates common weak points like joints or seams.
  • Excellent insulation to reduce energy costs.
  • Perfect for irregularly shaped roofs or those with unique designs.

7. Elastomeric Coatings

• What It Is: A flexible, rubberized coating applied over existing flat roofing systems to provide waterproofing and UV protection.
• How It’s Applied: Typically rolled or sprayed onto the roof’s surface.
• Why It’s Popular:
  • Reflects sunlight, helping reduce heat buildup.
  • Seals cracks and prevents water pooling.
  • Extends the lifespan of flat roofs with minimal cost.

Why These Materials Matter for Catalina Foothills

Flat roofs in the Catalina Foothills face unique challenges due to the area’s hot, dry climate and occasional monsoon rains. Homeowners prioritize energy efficiency, UV resistance, and materials that handle sudden water pooling during storms. Options like TPO, foam roofing, and elastomeric coatings are particularly well-suited for these conditions.