Flat Roofing

Durable & Reliable Flat Roofing Systems

The Modern Standard for Low-Slope Protection

For residential and commercial flat roofs, we exclusively recommend Modified Bitumen Membrane (MBM). It is the most reliable, trouble-free, and long-lasting system available on the market today.

Why We Choose Modified Bitumen (MBM)

Unlike traditional tar and gravel, MBM is built for our specific climate. It is made from asphalt modified with synthetic rubber, creating a product that remains flexible and resists cracking even in extreme cold or rapid temperature fluctuations.

Superior Coverage: The system is seamless. It can be applied continuously up vertical surfaces, parapet walls, and skylight curbs—areas where traditional tar and gravel roofs often fail.
Built to Last: Ceramic stone granules embedded in the cap sheet provide superior UV protection. This typically doubles the life expectancy compared to older flat roofing methods.
Hassle-Free Installation: The 2-ply system (welded or peel-and-stick) is cleaner to install, with no noxious fumes. It also allows for easy retro-fitting of HVAC units, vents, and plumbing stacks.
A Flawless Seal: By welding the base and cap sheets together, we create a completely sealed, watertight system with no weak points.

Modified Bitumen Membrane roof installation in progress

Other Types of Flat Roofing Systems

Single-Ply Membrane Roofing: PVC & EPDM

Single-ply membranes are popular for large flat roofs due to their speed of installation and large sheet sizes. At Roofmaster, we primarily work with the two industry standards: PVC (Vinyl) and EPDM (Rubber).

Common Installation Methods

Ballasted Systems: The most common method, where the membrane is held in place by large stones.
Inverted/Protected Systems: Our preferred method for flat roofs. By placing insulation over the membrane, we protect the roof from punctures caused by foot traffic or HVAC maintenance.
Fully Adhered: Used primarily on sloped surfaces (like the CN Tower) where foot traffic is unlikely.
Mechanically Fastened: A less common method using specialized plates and screws.

Key Considerations

Durability: Standard membranes can be thin and prone to punctures. For high-traffic areas like decks or docks, we offer a specialized, walkable PVC version designed for furniture and heavy foot-traffic.
Warranty: These systems typically carry a 10-year warranty.
The "Proof" Factor: While spray-on liquids and foams exist, we stick to proven PVC and EPDM membranes that have passed the test of time and industry standards.

Note: Because punctures in these membranes can be extremely difficult to locate once they occur, we highly recommend the Protected (Inverted) System to maximize the lifespan of your investment.

The Ultimate Dual-Purpose Surface: PVC Decking Membranes

Roofmaster specializes in PVC deck membranes—a high-performance solution for those who need a 100% waterproof roof that doubles as a rugged, walkable living space.

Versatile Applications: Perfect for apartment balconies, rooftop decks over garages, boat docks, and swim rafts.
Rugged & Durable: Engineered to handle heavy foot traffic, pets, and patio furniture without puncturing or tearing.
Maintenance-Free Comfort: Say goodbye to staining, sanding, and scraping. Our membranes are splinter-free, slip-resistant, and stay cool to the touch—even in direct sunlight.
Total Protection: Acts as a complete waterproofing seal for the wood structure underneath, significantly extending the life of your deck or dock.
Industry-Leading Warranty: We offer a 20-year warranty on our washable PVC decking, providing decades of peace of mind.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR): The Traditional "Tar & Gravel" Choice

Built-Up Roofing is a time-tested method consisting of multiple layers of asphalt felt fused with hot bitumen and topped with protective gravel. While it remains the most rugged and puncture-resistant flat roofing system available, modern versions have changed significantly.

Key Points to Consider:

Maximum Durability: BUR is incredibly tough and difficult to damage, making it ideal for roofs that may face heavy wear.
The UV Protection Layer: The "gravel" in tar and gravel isn't just for looks; it protects the underlying asphalt from the sun’s deteriorating UV rays.
Lifespan & Safety: Modern asphalt-based BUR typically lasts 12–15 years. Because it requires heating liquid asphalt to 500 deg F, it is a labor-intensive and high-risk installation process.
Warranty Awareness: Unlike modern membranes, BUR is "manufactured" on-site by the crew. This means there is no manufacturer’s warranty—only a contractor’s warranty, which typically ranges from 5 to 10 years.

Expert Insight: While we still offer BUR for its ruggedness, its popularity is waning in favor of more modern, safer, and longer-lasting membrane technologies.

Flat Roof Re-Sloping: Eliminating Ponding & Water Damage

Over time, older flat roof structures (especially wood-frame) can develop sags and dips. These low spots lead to ponding water, which can cause accelerated de-granulation, debris buildup, and even mosquito breeding. More importantly, if a leak develops in a ponding area, the interior damage is often much more severe.

Roofmaster specializes in restoring "positive slope" to ensure water flows efficiently toward drains and edges.

Our Re-Sloping Solutions:

Tapered Insulation: We install custom-sloped insulation panels beneath the roofing membrane to create a precise, built-in drainage path.
Structural Wood Purlins: For significant sags, we use custom-cut wood purlins to realign the roof deck, finished with high-quality 1/2" or 5/8" plywood.
Membrane Layering: For minor deflections, we can use strategic membrane buildup to level out small low points.

Why Re-Slope? Achieving a dry roof surface extends the life of your materials, prevents structural rot, and ensures that a small leak doesn't turn into a major flood.