Why do you need Insulation on your Flat Roof under the Roof Membrane?

Insulation on a flat roof is crucial because it helps regulate the inside temperature by preventing significant heat loss during winter and excessive heat gain during summer, leading to improved energy efficiency and lower utility billsit also helps prevent condensation and potential water damage by maintaining a consistent temperature within the roof structure. 

Key reasons to insulate a flat roof:
  • Energy efficiency:

    Flat roofs are exposed to direct sunlight, making them major contributors to heat loss in summer and heat gain in winter. Insulation minimizes this heat transfer, keeping your home comfortable year-round. 

     
  • Reduced energy costs:

    By better regulating temperatures, proper insulation can significantly lower your heating and cooling bills. 

     
  • Condensation control:

    Insulation helps maintain a more consistent temperature, reducing the risk of condensation buildup which can lead to mold and rot. 

     
  • Water pooling prevention:

    When installed correctly, particularly with tapered insulation, it can help create a slight slope on a flat roof, allowing water to drain properly and preventing pooling. 

     
  • Improved roof lifespan:
    By mitigating temperature fluctuations and moisture issues, insulation can extend the lifespan of your flat roof. 

Install insulation for proper Energy Efficiency and Proper drainage

GAF Insulation comes in various thickness. We typically use 3″ ISO and if we need to Taper the thickness to accommodate a drainage scenario, we will use various thickness so water flows to drain (this is standard practice for all quality roofers) All ISO installation is installed according to GAF standards and regulations. 

The thickness ranges from 1/2″ to 2.6″ and vary in cost!

So the amount of thickness being used is a huge material cost component

Drains on one side

Drains on Both Sides

Drains in Middle

Roofing Membranes

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

  • Single Ply made with blend of ethylene propylene rubber and polypropylene
  • Easy to install and Great Seam Strength due to Heat Weld capability and adhesives
  • Energy Star Rated
  • Fungal and mold resistant
  • Durability that lasts
  • Resistance to mold, punctures, and tears.
  • The heat-reflective properties of TPO help reduce energy consumption, making it an eco-friendly choice for savvy property owners.
  • Available in multiple colors including white
  • 25-30 Years

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

  • Single Ply made with synthetic rubber material
  • Easy to install
  • Bit more expensive than TPO
  • Durable that lasts 
  • Resistant to punctures (not as good as TPO, PVC and Mod Bit)
  • Black color (limited color choices but does have white)
  • Not as UV resistant as other membranes
  • 20-25 years

Modified Butimen

  • 2 Ply system with a Base Sheet and typically we use this for Overlays
  • Asphalt membranes with polymerized rubber or plastic and is reinforced with fiberglass
  • Ideal for overlay on Tar or asphalt roofs
  • Heat resistant
  • Puncture a tear resistant
  • Typically last less years than TPO or EPDM

PVC

  • Good on punctures 

  • Great initial flexibility, due to the addition of plasticizers

  • Great seam strength due to heat-welded seams

  • Highly reflective – white 

  • Very chemical-resistant compared to other membranes

  • Good warranty programs

  • Bleed-out during welding confirms the quality of the weld visually