When dealing with a flat section of your home such as a patio or sunroom, homeowners should be aware that house shingles require a minimum pitch of 3/12, and therefore can not be used. However, there are several options available.

 A hot system or “torch down” system is applied with a controlled flame such as a propane gas torch. The roll is heated until the asphalt “melts” and is applied directly to either a roof membrane or suitable substrate. Once the asphalt cools it creates a secure bond. In a cold system, the roll is applied to the deck or substrate with a modified bitumen adhesive. Most recently, a peel and stick roll has been introduced. With this system, the roll is kicked out and the release paper is peeled off. Once the paper is off, the exposed membrane will adhere to either a base sheet or roof deck. Lastly, roof coatings can also be used. For those homeowners who have rounded enclosures, a small area to cover, or an existing roof they want to extend the life of, this can be a viable solution.

APP Flat (Rubber Roofing) or Torch Down Roofing

The hot system is the most common and economical choice. It’s a strong, resilient, non-woven polyester mat that is coated with a special type of modified asphalt called APP (Atactic Polypropylene). Torch-down roofs (often known as rubber roofs) are easy to repair and need little maintenance. They’re also flexible, because of its blend of asphalt with synthetic rubberized polymers. This means a torch down application is more adaptable to extreme changes of weather and other climate changes. While other types of roofing are sometimes subject to leakages in wet weather, torch down roofing is known for its resistance to rain, wind, and hail. When choosing a contractor for this type of work, it’s extremely important to be aware of the insurance they carry. As little as 25% of flat roofing contractors, carry the proper insurance necessary for torch down roofing.

Cold Applied or SBS Roofing

The cold system or SBS (Styrene Butidene Styrene) is similar in make up, but can be an alternative for those homeowners who do not want an open flame near their home. The quality of the adhesive, the potential for mess, and the air/adhesive temperature during application however, can create some quality control issues.

Lastly, the peel and stick roll eliminates both the open flame and adhesive issues of the other products. It also comes in several of the more popular shingle colors allowing homeowners the opportunity for consistency. However , it is also the most expensive. Coatings too vary greatly on price and performance, so their best application is for helping to restore existing roofs.

Flat Roof Warranties

Each product carries different warranties depending on the system application. Coatings have the shortest warranties usually no more than 5 years. The hot and cold process systems usually carry a 10-15 year warranty dependant on whether or not inner plies are used. New Jersey Certified Roofing specializes in flat roof installation, flat roof repair, and flat roof coatings.

New Jersey Certified Roofing has been servicing satisfied customers in 13 counties in Northern and Central Jersey including Essex, Hudson, Morris, Union, Warren, Sussex, Somerset.

BE SURE. Before hiring any roofing company, find out if they have:

Do they have enough qualified, long-term experience?
Do they offer workmanship warranties that exceed industry norms?
Do they have proper roofing insurance?
Do they have a current New Jersey contractor license?
Do they offer 100% financing?
Do they have detailed written proposals with photos?
Do they have a quality assurance inspection process?
Do they have references from satisfied customers?
Do they use "green" certified and solar products?
Do they have sufficient office and repair staff for emergency service calls?

New Jersey Certified Roofing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We have over 6000 satisfied customers. We have 17 service vehicles available 6 days a week with a 24 hour emergency service available. In addition, we also offer 100% financing and accept all major credit/debit cards for payment.