Flat and Low-Slope Roofing Experts
Flat and low-slope roofs require specialized knowledge that most roofers don’t have. From iconic Eichler homes to modern contemporary architecture, these roofs use different materials and techniques than traditional sloped roofs. Our network includes contractors who specialize exclusively in flat roof systems.
Understanding Flat Roofs
Not Actually Flat
Most “flat” roofs have a slight slope—typically 1/4” per foot—to promote drainage. True flat roofs require special considerations for water management.
Why They Need Specialists
Flat roofs can’t shed water like sloped roofs. They rely on:
- Waterproof membrane systems
- Proper drainage design
- Seamless installation
- Regular maintenance
A roofer experienced only with shingles can cause serious problems on a flat roof.
Flat Roof Systems We Install
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
The gold standard for many flat roofs, especially Eichlers:
Advantages:
- Seamless coverage: No seams, joints, or fasteners to leak
- Insulation: R-6.5 per inch, improving energy efficiency
- Lightweight: Won’t stress older structures
- Self-flashing: Foam wraps penetrations perfectly
- Renewable: Can be recoated rather than replaced
Best for:
- Eichler homes
- Complex roof geometries
- Roofs with many penetrations
- Energy-conscious homeowners
Process:
- Existing roof cleaned and prepped
- Foam sprayed in controlled layers
- Protective coating applied
- Regular recoating every 10-15 years
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
Popular single-ply membrane system:
Advantages:
- Heat-welded seams: Stronger than the membrane itself
- Energy efficient: White surface reflects heat
- Durable: Resists punctures and chemicals
- Cost-effective: Good value for larger areas
Best for:
- Commercial buildings
- New construction
- Large residential flat sections
- Cool roof requirements
PVC Membrane
Similar to TPO with some differences:
Advantages:
- Chemical resistant: Ideal near kitchens, restaurants
- Fire resistant: Excellent fire ratings
- Long track record: Decades of proven performance
- Flexible: Handles building movement well
Silicone Coatings
Excellent for existing roofs in good condition:
Advantages:
- Ponding water tolerant: Won’t degrade in standing water
- UV resistant: Handles California sun
- Seamless application: Spray or roll on
- Cost-effective restoration: Fraction of replacement cost
Best for:
- Coating over existing SPF
- Restoring aging membranes
- Roofs with ponding issues
- Budget-conscious upgrades
Modified Bitumen
Traditional flat roof system:
Advantages:
- Proven technology: Decades of successful use
- Multiple layers: Built-up redundancy
- Repairable: Easy to patch and maintain
- Cost-effective: Lower initial cost
Eichler Home Specialists
Eichler homes are architectural treasures with unique roofing needs. Our local flat roof experts understand these iconic homes inside and out.
Understanding Eichlers
- Post-and-beam construction
- Low-slope or flat roofs
- Open floor plans vulnerable to leaks
- Original tar and gravel roofs now failing
Why Eichlers Need Foam
Traditional roofing doesn’t work well on Eichlers because:
- Low slope doesn’t shed water effectively
- Multiple skylights and penetrations
- Wide overhangs and unusual shapes
- Weight restrictions on post-and-beam structure
SPF foam addresses all these challenges:
- Creates seamless waterproofing
- Wraps penetrations perfectly
- Lightweight application
- Adds insulation Eichlers often lack
Our Eichler Experience
Our network includes contractors who’ve worked on hundreds of Eichler roofs. They understand:
- Common problem areas
- Best materials for these homes
- How to maintain original character
- Working with Eichler community standards
Solving Common Flat Roof Problems
Ponding Water
Water standing for more than 48 hours after rain:
Solutions:
- Tapered insulation for slope
- Additional drains
- SPF built-up to create flow paths
- Silicone coating (tolerates ponding)
Blistering and Bubbling
Air or moisture trapped under membrane:
Solutions:
- Cut and patch affected areas
- Address moisture source
- Overlay with new system
Seam Failures
Joints in membrane systems that fail:
Solutions:
- Re-weld or re-seal seams
- Cover with additional membrane
- Upgrade to seamless system (foam)
Flashing Problems
Failures around edges and penetrations:
Solutions:
- Reinstall with proper materials
- Use foam for complex shapes
- Install reglet flashing on walls
Maintenance Matters
Flat roofs need more attention than sloped roofs:
Regular Tasks
- Clean debris from drains monthly
- Inspect after major storms
- Remove standing water if drains clog
- Trim overhanging branches
Professional Maintenance
Annual professional inspection catches:
- Membrane damage before leaks
- Sealant failures at penetrations
- Drainage problems
- Coating wear requiring reapplication
Extend Your Roof’s Life
Proper maintenance can double flat roof lifespan. A well-maintained SPF roof can last 30+ years with periodic recoating.
Cool Roof Benefits
Many flat roof systems qualify as “cool roofs”:
- Reflect sunlight: Reduce heat absorption
- Lower cooling costs: Less AC needed
- Extend roof life: Cooler surface degrades slower
- Rebates available: Some utilities offer incentives
Ask about Title 24 compliance and cool roof options.
Get a Flat Roof Expert
Don’t trust your Eichler or flat roof to a traditional roofer. Contact us to connect with specialists who understand these unique systems.
Local Flat Roof Expertise
Walnut Creek & Contra Costa County
Rancho San Miguel: Home to one of the largest Eichler concentrations in Contra Costa County. We’ve worked on hundreds of these homes and understand their specific challenges—from original tar-and-gravel conversions to routine foam recoating. City of Walnut Creek permits require Title 24 compliance with SRI 16+ reflective coatings.
Rossmoor Manors and Gardens: These flat-roofed units need specialized restoration. We work within MOD requirements and understand the Golden Rain Foundation approval process. Typical projects include foam restoration at $8,000-$15,000 per unit.
Commercial flat roofs: Walnut Creek’s business district includes many flat-roofed commercial buildings. We install TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen systems for retail and office properties.
Fremont & Tri-City Area
Warm Springs and Centerville: Many homes have flat garage roofs or additions that require different treatment than the main pitched roof. We integrate flat and sloped systems properly.
Ardenwood: Coastal flat roofs need coatings that resist both ponding water and salt-air degradation. We specify marine-appropriate products.
South Bay & Silicon Valley
Palo Alto and Sunnyvale Eichlers: The South Bay has the largest Eichler concentration in California. Our specialists work throughout Santa Clara County on these iconic homes.
San Jose flat roofs: Commercial and residential flat roof services using TPO, foam, and coating systems appropriate for the South Bay climate.
Oakland, Berkeley & East Bay
Mid-century modern homes: Berkeley and Oakland have significant mid-century housing stock with flat roofs. We understand both the architectural significance and practical waterproofing needs.
Tri-Valley: Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore commercial properties with flat roofs receive expert installation and maintenance.
Related Services
- Roof Inspection - Comprehensive flat roof assessment
- Roof Repair - Localized foam repairs and patching
- Emergency Services - 24/7 response for flat roof leaks
- Gutter Services - Drainage critical for flat roof performance
Areas We Serve
- Rancho San Miguel - Walnut Creek Eichler experts
- Sunnyvale - Fairbrae, Ponderosa Park Eichlers
- Rossmoor - Manor and Garden flat roof specialists
- Cupertino - Rancho Rinconada coverage
Helpful Resources
- Eichler Maintenance Guide - Essential care for foam roofs
- Summer Heat Impact - How heat affects flat roofs
- Rossmoor Guide - MOD requirements for flat roofs