Flat doesn’t mean simple
Flat and low-slope roofs are all over the Valley: on entire homes in many older neighborhoods and Southwest-style designs, and on patio covers, additions, and garage sections of tile and shingle homes. Most are built with a slight slope that moves water toward drains or scuppers through the parapet walls. When that slope, the seams, or the surface coating fails, water sits on the roof or finds its way inside.
Spray foam roofs live and die by their coating
A spray foam roof is a seamless layer of foam that insulates the roof and sheds water. The foam itself doesn’t hold up to sunlight, though. Its protection comes from the coating on top. When that coating wears thin, the foam underneath is exposed to UV and starts to break down. Keeping the coating in good shape is the main maintenance a foam roof needs, and it’s much easier than repairing damaged foam later.
Flat and foam roof problems we fix
- Leaking seams, laps, and penetrations
- Ponding water and low spots
- Blisters, cracks, and worn spots in the coating
- Damaged or exposed foam
- Drains, scuppers, and roof edges
- Parapet wall and flashing details
- Elastomeric roof coatings and recoats
The usual approach: clean the roof, repair the problem areas, seal seams and penetrations, then coat the roof so it’s sealed and reflective. The photos on this page are from one of our own flat-roof jobs.
Timing matters in Arizona
Monsoon downpours are the hardest test a flat roof gets, because a lot of rain can arrive faster than drains and scuppers can carry it away, and every low spot fills up. Long winter rains are the second test. Coatings also need dry weather to cure properly. That makes the stretches before the monsoon and before winter good times for an inspection and any repairs or recoating. Our work comes with a warranty; terms are in your written estimate.