Flat and Low-Slope Roofing in Alta, Utah

Low-slope roofs handle water differently from steep shingle roofs, which makes membrane seams, drainage, edges and roof openings especially important.

Median year built from the US Census American Community Survey; elevation from USGS.

A low-slope roof should be evaluated when ponding keeps returning, seams lift or interior water staining appears, so we can determine whether the problem starts with drainage, the membrane or both.

Wind exposure matters on a flat roof, especially around edges and corners because a strong membrane can still fail if perimeter details are loose.

Summer sun can raise the surface temperature of a flat-roof membrane, although indoor heat still depends on insulation and the full roof assembly.

Storms can damage a flat roof through punctures, lifted edges, debris impact or blocked drainage because either type of damage can lead to ponding or leaks.

The main membrane systems we work with are TPO, EPDM and modified bitumen; drainage, roof details and the existing assembly guide the choice.

• TPO single-ply membrane: TPO is a thermoplastic single-ply membrane; heat-welded seams connect adjacent sheets into one continuous surface.
• EPDM rubber membrane: EPDM is a flexible synthetic rubber membrane; installers join seams with compatible tapes or adhesives and use matching flashing products at details.
• Modified bitumen: Modified bitumen is an asphalt-based membrane reinforced for low-slope roofing; it is often practical on garages, porches and smaller low-slope sections.
• Existing membrane repairs: We inspect existing membranes for open seams, punctures and damaged flashing; we inspect the drainage system for conditions that may be contributing to the damage.

A low-slope roofing project begins with an evaluation of how the roof handles water; we also check the membrane, roof base, seams, edges and roof openings before deciding what needs work.

• Build roof edges and transitions: We finish roof edges, parapets and wall transitions as part of the membrane system; proper termination helps prevent water or wind from getting behind the roofing.
• Detail drains and roof openings: We flash drains, vents, pipes, skylight curbs, walls and rooftop equipment with materials compatible with the membrane; the detail has to stay watertight where the flat roof is interrupted.
• Prepare the roof surface: The membrane needs a clean, stable roof surface; we remove or prepare existing materials according to the condition of the roof.
• Assess drainage first: We identify where water flows and where it remains after rain or snowmelt; the drainage pattern helps separate membrane problems from water-flow problems.
• Test and inspect seams: We inspect the completed seams and roof details before finishing the job; applicable systems may also allow seams to be probed or otherwise tested.
• Install the membrane: We lay out and attach the membrane according to the selected roofing system; TPO seams are heat welded, while EPDM and modified-bitumen seams use compatible system-specific methods.

Which of those apply depends on what the inspection finds. We would rather tell you the roof needs a repair than sell you a replacement it does not need yet.

For the full picture of the service, see Flat Roofing.

Flat-roof work follows a different sequence from shingle work because the drainage path and continuous membrane have to work before the roof can keep water out.

1. Inspect the existing roofWe document the existing membrane, drainage and roof edges; we record damaged areas or locations that hold water.
2. Confirm the roofing approachWe decide whether the roof needs repair, partial replacement, installing new roofing over suitable existing materials or full removal; we do not assume every low-slope roof needs full replacement.
3. Correct problems below the membraneWe address wet insulation and damaged materials before covering the roof; the finished roof should sit over sound materials.
4. Install the low-slope roofing systemWe install the selected TPO, EPDM or modified-bitumen system; we use compatible seam and flashing materials.
5. Check drainage and detailsWe review drains, scuppers, roof edges, walls, curbs and roof openings; we check that runoff is directed away from vulnerable details.

Courtland Roofing installs and repairs flat and low-slope roofing; we base the recommendation on membrane condition, drainage and materials below the surface.

Certified installer for GAF, CertainTeed and Owens Corning, family-owned, licensed & insured.

Courtland Roofing has worked on flat roofs in every part of Alta, Utah (84092), including the streets around Alta Ski Area and the head of Little Cottonwood Canyon. We give homeowners across the rest of Salt Lake County the same service, including in Murray, Draper and Riverton.

If you do not see your ZIP code listed, call or text us. We can confirm whether we provide flat and low-slope roofing at your address in Alta.