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Posted on February 21, 2024
Do you know how long a flat roof can last? In Mississippi, flat roofs have a lifespan of about 20 to 25 years. The longevity of the roof can depend on various factors, such as the quality of the materials used, the installation method, and proper maintenance.
If you want to know how long flat roofs last, we have got you covered! In this comprehensive blog post, we will guide you through the average life expectancy of flat roofs, including PVC, built-up roofs, EPDM, TPO, and modified bitumen roofs. By understanding these aspects, you can maintain your current roof properly and gain valuable insights about different types of materials for your new roof installation.
Although there are a variety of factors that can influence the lifespan of a roof – such as the quality of installation, maintenance, and the climate it’s exposed to – the roofing industry has generally established an average flat roof lifespan based on the main material it is composed of.
First on our list is the traditional built-up roof (BUR), which has been popular for over 100 years. A BUR system includes layers of hot tar and roofing felt, creating a finished product that lasts approximately 15 to 30 years. Keep in mind that premium materials or regular preventive maintenance could possibly extend its life span beyond the upper limit.
PVC, a popular roofing material, is known for its robustness and resilience. If installed correctly and maintained adequately, a PVC roof can last up to 20 to 30 years. The material’s durability is due to its ability to withstand water, fire, and wind, making it a practical choice.
EPDM is known for its durability and thickness. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), a type of rubber roofing with a proven track record in terms of longevity, commonly ranges between 20 to 30 years in lifespan. However, its lifespan can stretch up to an astonishingly high age of 35 years when properly maintained and inspected regularly.
TPO stands for thermoplastic olefin, a type of roof that has been gaining popularity due to its energy-efficient and cool roof features. As for the expected lifespan of TPO roofing, it’s typically around 15 to 20 years, although some studies suggest that TPO roofs can last up to 30 years under ideal circumstances.
Modified bitumen roofs are recognized for their enhanced durability and weather resistance. When it comes to the modified bitumen roof life expectancy, you can expect them to last between 10 to 20 years, with timely preventive maintenance.
A flat roof can last a long time, but several factors can shorten its lifespan. Neglecting regular maintenance or using subpar materials are some examples. Even uncontrollable factors like extreme weather can have a significant impact.
Scheduled maintenance is an often overlooked part of keeping a roof healthy and long-lasting. Routine inspections allow for early detection of problematic areas or minor damages before they escalate into significant issues. Ignoring this important aspect often accelerates the wear and tear process, shortening the roof’s expected lifespan.
For instance, debris build up may cause blockages leading to water pooling – which could result in leaks if not addressed promptly. Regularly scheduled professional check ups will ensure your roofing system remains in optimal condition, therefore extending its service life remarkably.
The longevity of flat roofs depends on the type and quality of materials used. Though cheaper materials might be tempting, they lack durability and could result in costly repairs later on. Conversely, high-quality roofing membranes such as PVC or TPO can better withstand the extreme weather conditions in Mississippi. Moreover, combining these top tier materials with expert installation can significantly extend the flat roof lifespan.
While Mississippi’s climate can be relatively mild compared to other regions, it’s important to acknowledge that severe weather can have a significant impact on the lifespan of flat roofs. Thunderstorms, which are common in the spring and summer, can bring heavy wind gusts that may tear off loose flashing or prematurely age roofing membranes.
Even during the winter months, your flat roof may be at risk. Frequent alternation between colder nights and warmer days can cause a freeze-thaw cycle that puts significant strain on roof materials.
However, timely professional maintenance can help mitigate potential damage and prolong the life expectancy of flat roofs.
The following signs indicate that it’s time to think about repairing or replacing your flat roof. Let’s delve into some of the signals that could show that your roof is deteriorating:
If you notice blisters, cracks, or splits on your flat roof, it could be a sign that it’s getting old. Blisters happen when moisture gets trapped, creating bubble-like formations on the surface. Likewise, cracks and splits can develop over time due to prolonged exposure to the sun or constantly changing temperatures in Mississippi, causing the roof materials to expand and contract.
Flat roofs are designed with slight slopes to allow water to run off. However, when these slopes deteriorate over time, it leads to ponding water, which is one of the most common issues with flat roofs. Stagnant water puddles exert a lot of pressure on the structure and can penetrate the building if not addressed on time. Additionally, it’s worth noting that inadequate drainage systems may cause water to pool on certain areas of your roof after heavy rains in Mississippi.
Another sign your flat roof might be aging is visible UV damage and fading. In the blisteringly hot weather conditions in Mississippi, UV radiation can degrade various roofing materials prematurely.
These signs include discoloration and fading caused by persistent sunlight affecting the chemical composition of your roof, which therefore reduces its longevity.
If you are considering installing a new flat roof or replacing an existing one, contact the expert roofers at B&A Roofing in Mississippi. The contractors at the company are proficient at handling any roofing project, including flat roof installation, repairs, or a complete replacement. Contact us today at (601) 520-3183 and consult an expert roofer for your roofing needs.
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