Roof maintenance for flat roofs of single-family homes

[Or Greber]

Hi everyone, I would love to hear your opinion, we want to do an inspection of the roofs of our houses these are flat roofs of single-family homes located in West Philadelphia. According to what I was told, the roof is supposed to last around 25 years, should be checked and maintained by a good roofer every 2 or 3 years.

I would love to hear from experienced people:

- what is the price range for roof renovation?

- what do you think maintenance should include and the price range?

Thank you very much and have a great week

[David Wandel]

There is so much incorrect information out there in regards to flat roofs. There are 4 roof systems for flat roofs.

1. Hot tar roofs which have no manufacture warrantee's-only warrantee s whatever the company gives you. This roof can last a few years to 20 plus years depending on how many layers of tar and paper is installed. The roof should be re coated with hot tar (not silver coating) every 3-5 years. This system is not used too much any more. Price depends on how many layers they are installin

2. Modified bitumen-commonly called torch down. 10 year manufacture's warrantee. No maintenance required. Silver coating is recommended (1 time application) Extends warrantee by 2 years. Also cheapest roof to install

3. EPDM roof is a thin rubber-think bicycle inner tube. 20 year roof. Seams are glued together. More expensive than torch. same price point as TPO

4. TPO roof is a 20 year roof. Seams are welded together with hot air.

Seriously doubt you have a 25 year roof. If you are worried about the condition of your roofs I would recommend that you hire a roof consultant to come out and inspect your roofs and give you a report on the conditions of the roofs and make recommendations.. The problem with asking a roofing company to come out is you don't know if they are being honest with you or just trying to sell you a roof.

I am not that far away if you want me to take a look. 

Another factor in the price is how many layers is already there. The cost goes wat up when the roof needs to be torn off. The snow can cause a roof to collapse due to the extra weight if there are too many layers.