Vinyl Membranes Replace Older Flat Tar Roofs

The old standard black tar flat roof is fast being replaced by the more reliable vinyl membrane roofing
materials. The older method relied on black tar to prevent leaks. The tar then had to be covered
with gravel, which was to reflect the sun's heat so the tar wouldn't melt. The gravel also allowed
maintenance personnel to walk on the roof without getting tar all over their shoes.

However, when someone had to walk on the roof, they would actually be grinding the gravel down
into the felt below the tar, jeopardizing the sealing integrity of the roof. If a property owner got ten
years of leak free service from a tar roof, they did well. Anything longer was just living on borrowed
time.

The new membrane roofs have a lot of benefits that make them easy to recommend. They are more
fire resistant than the old tar roofs. Most require considerably less maintenance. And, they are highly
reflective of sun light which can save a large portion of your air conditioning expense.

A membrane roof can often be installed right over the existing roofing materials, whether they are tar
covered or metal roofs. Not having to remove the old roofing material can save a lot on the installation
cost. When properly manufactured and installed, they are far less likely to develop leaks. This allows
the manufacturer to offer 15, 20, and even up to 30 year warranties.

For more information on the improved membrane roofing materials, visit Minneapols flat roof contractor A-Plus Roofing at www.APlusRoofingMN.com.