Flat and low-slope roofs
Low-Slope Roofs in Norwalk, CT
Ponding water or a leak under the flat roof of an addition or porch? Call and you are connected with an independent contractor that replaces low-slope roofs around Norwalk.
Calls answered Mon–Fri 8:30am–7pm, Sat 9am–4pm ET
Flat roofs need a membrane, not shingles
Shingles depend on gravity. Below a certain pitch they can't keep water out, so low-slope sections get a continuous membrane instead: EPDM rubber, a thermoplastic sheet such as TPO or PVC, or a modified bitumen system.
Most low-slope roofs on houses around Norwalk are on rear additions, enclosed porches, shed dormers and the flat tops of some roofs. They are small but leak-prone, usually where the membrane meets a wall or the main roof.
Before you sign
What to ask about a low-slope roof
Membrane type
EPDM, TPO, PVC or modified bitumen. Each is installed and seamed differently.
Drainage
Water has to get off: tapered insulation, scuppers, gutters or drains. Ponding shortens a flat roof's life.
Wall flashing
Where the flat roof meets the siding is the usual leak. Ask how far up the wall the membrane goes and how it is covered.
Insulation
Replacing the roof is a chance to add insulation above the deck. Ask what is proposed.
Foot traffic
If you'll walk on it to reach windows or equipment, ask about walkway pads.
Tie-in to the main roof
Where the low slope meets a pitched roof, both have to be flashed as one system.
Snow and low slopes
A low roof under a taller one collects the snow that slides down from above, and it melts and refreezes there. Ask whether the edge detail and drainage account for that load and the water that comes with it.
If the flat section is replaced at the same time as the main roof, one contractor can flash the joint between them properly instead of two crews meeting in the middle.
Questions
Low-Slope Roofs: common questions
How do I know a flat roof needs replacing?
Blisters, splits at seams, water that stays for days after rain, and stains on the ceiling below are common signs. A contractor can check whether the insulation under it is wet.
Can a flat roof be repaired instead?
A small puncture can often be patched. Widespread seam failure or wet insulation usually means replacement.
Is a white roof better?
White membranes reflect more sun and run cooler in summer. On a house, ask how it will look from upstairs windows and neighbors' homes.
Roof types
Other roof types
- Roof ReplacementOld layers off, deck checked, ice barrier and underlayment down, new roof on, permit closed.
- New RoofsAdditions, dormers and rebuilds: a roof framed, flashed and tied into the old one.
- Asphalt ShinglesThe everyday Connecticut roof: dimensional shingles over a proper ice barrier.
- Cedar RoofsShakes and shingles in natural wood, for shingle-style and older New England homes.
- Slate RoofsNatural slate for older homes: replaced by specialists, with copper flashing to match.
- Standing Seam MetalRaised-seam steel or aluminum panels that shed snow, often on farmhouses and porches.
Planning the work?
Talk to a contractor about low-slope roofs
One call puts you through to an independent roofing contractor serving Norwalk, Westport, Darien, New Canaan and Wilton. Ask for an inspection and a written price for the new roof.
Replacing your roof? Talk it through with a local roofing contractor.
Your call is connected with an independent roofing contractor that takes on roof replacements and new roofs in Norwalk and nearby towns.
Call (855) 365-0164Calls answered Mon–Fri 8:30am–7pm, Sat 9am–4pm ET
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