Are you wanting to give your building a brand-new look? Think about installing a flat roof. This style of roof looks sleek and modern, and, if installed to bear weight, could make for a lovely outdoor living space. Flat roofs can be tricky, however, as they’re more prone to leaks and cracks—you’ll want to be sure you install it properly. Check out our guidelines on how to install flat roofs if you’re having trouble getting started.
How to Install Flat Roofs
A flat roof membrane is the most DIY-friendly type of flat roof to maintain (if you’re wanting a different material like gravel or modified bitumen, you might want to give us a call!). Installing your flat roof will require three major steps:
- Preparation
- Fitting your membrane
- Gluing your membrane
Let’s discuss these steps in more detail . . .
1. Preparation
Luck favors the prepared! As soon as you’ve decided you want to install a flat roof, it’s time to gather your materials. You will definitely need:
- Your membrane (of course!)
- Membrane adhesive
- Cleaner
- Scissors
- Seam tape
- Tape measure
- A roller brush
- A paint brush
- A bucket with water and oil-free soap
You might want or need other materials (roof nails, plywood, a saw) depending on your project’s specific details. Just plan this out in advance before you climb up on top of your house!
You also need to make sure the surface you’re placing it onto is as clean as can be. You’ll want to clean it with oil-free soap and water, and based on what kind of surface you’re installing your roof onto (shingles, gravel), there are different methods for more thorough cleaning. Do some research to find the best products and practices for cleaning before installing.
2. Fitting your membrane
Cut your membrane in small sections that will measure out to your roof’s dimensions. Before applying the material, lay the membrane down on your roof to see if you’ve measured and cut correctly.
3. Gluing your membrane
Stir your adhesive very well. To get the best possible bond, use the paint brush to apply the adhesive both to the roof or plywood, and to the back of your section of membrane. Press down hard on the membrane once you’ve set it, and use the roller brush to get rid of any bubbles in the membrane. Keep this up until you’ve glued all of the pieces of membrane—be patient!
Finally, clean up the seams with your soap and water, and apply your seam tape. Make sure to let your roof cure for hours before doing any additional work.
If installed properly (and then cared for properly!), your flat roof should last you for decades!
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Installing flat roofs can be tricky—you need to do it right the first time. If you don’t have the time or energy to install yourself, why not call in a pro? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing and guttering needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!