
FLAT ROOF REPAIRS & REPLACEMENT
Flat Roof Repair and Replacement in Ottawa and Surrounding Areas
Your roof is an important part of your home and essential to keep it strong. Over time, natural elements tend to damage your shelter and cause issues. Sanderson Roofing is the name to trust when it comes to reliable flat roof repairs in Ottawa and surrounding areas. You can check for signs of wear on your flat roof to determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced. Look out for tree branches that could scrape the roof and cause damage. Other items to check for are cracks in the flashing, caulking, blistering and splits in the membrane. We conduct a thorough roof inspection and suggest whether roof repair or replacement is the right option for you.
Full-Scale Flat Roof Repair and Replacement Services
Over time, mother nature can cause your flat roofing to deteriorate. Regular roof inspections ensure that significant damage is prevented. Sanderson Roofing’s flat roof repair and maintenance services cover the following and more:

Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the answers to some commonly asked questions:
Trust in Our Experience
With 125 years of experience, Sanderson Roofing is Ottawa’s flat roof repair specialist. We can install, repair, and replace any type of flat roof, including:
BUILT-UP ROOFS
A built-up roof or BUR is one of the oldest roofing systems. It is one of the most common roofing materials used on low-slope roofs, such as tar, gravel, coal tar and asphalt. Built-up roofs are incredibly durable, offering enhanced protection against external forces like winds, etc. Built-up roofs offer outstanding waterproofing and protection against UV rays, are low-maintenance and are energy-efficient. So if you are looking for a stress-free roofing solution, then built-up roofs are the right choice!
MODIFIED BITUMEN (ROOFS)
A modified bitumen roofing system is composed primarily of polymer-modified bitumen reinforced with one or more plies of fabric, such as polyester, fibreglass, or a combination of both. Factory surfacing is composed of mineral granules. The bitumen provides primary waterproofing protection, while the reinforcement adds strength, puncture resistance, and overall system integrity. The granule coating offers UV protection.
SINGLE-PLY ROOFS: PVC, TPO AND EPDM
A single-ply roof is a broadsheet that is meant for low-slope roofs. It doesn’t require asphalt installation. In addition, it comes with prefabricated detailing accessories, making the installation process easy. Some of the most commonly used single-ply membranes are PVC, TPO and EPDM. PVC single-ply roof membrane is used in a low sloped and flat roofing system. Similarly, TPO as a single-ply roof membrane comprises a single synthetic layer used to cover flat roofs. Both PVC and TPO are durable and wind-resistant.
EPDM, on the other hand, consists of a synthetic rubber compound that makes it flexible. It is also quick and easy to install, and long-lasting.
You can depend on our professional and experienced roofing contractors for all your flat roof repairs in Ottawa and its surrounding areas. Don’t hesitate to give us a call for all your roofing needs.
Contact Us for Flat Roof Repair in Ottawa and the Surrounding Areas
At our roofing company, we're always welcoming new clients. Our seasoned roofers are always available to help, whether you reach out to us for shingle roof replacement or flat roof repair in Ottawa and the nearby areas. We can work with commercial and residential properties to deliver results that not only enhance your functionality but add value to your property. There are many reasons to choose our roofers, such as:
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We have years of experience and a rich history in the roofing industry
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We offer comprehensive roofing services to meet every need
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We adhere to the highest standards of safety and quality
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We use top-quality materials for the best results
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We deliver personalized solutions that are driven by your needs
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We offer hassle-free services and an excellent customer experience
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Please contact us for flat roof roofing in Ottawa or any of our other services. You can request a quick online quote for flat roof repair or replacement. Also, don’t forget to check out our blog for informative articles on roofing services.
Advantages of Common Flat Roof Systems
Flat roofs offer a unique aesthetic and can be a practical choice for commercial buildings and some residential properties. However, each flat roof system has its own set of advantages and to consider:
Built-Up Roofs (BUR)
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Durability: BUR roofs are renowned for their exceptional longevity, lasting 30-50 years or even longer with proper maintenance. The multiple layers provide excellent waterproofing and protection against harsh weather conditions.
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Low Maintenance: BUR roofs require minimal maintenance compared to other flat roof systems. Periodic inspections and resealing are crucial, but they are generally less susceptible to damage from foot traffic or punctures.
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Fire Resistance: BUR roofs offer superior fire resistance due to the gravel ballast layer, making them a good choice for buildings with fire safety concerns.
Modified Bitumen Roofs
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Durability: Modified bitumen roofs offer excellent durability, lasting 20-30 years with proper maintenance. The polymer-modified bitumen provides superior flexibility and resistance to cracking compared to traditional BUR roofs.
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Lightweight: Modified bitumen roofs are lighter than BUR roofs due to the fewer layers and elimination of gravel ballast. This makes them a suitable option for buildings with weight limitations.
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Installation Speed: Modified bitumen roofs can be installed more quickly than BUR roofs due to the prefabricated membranes and easier application methods.
Single-Ply Roof Systems (PVC, TPO, EPDM)
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Lightweight: Single-ply membranes are lightweight, putting minimal stress on the building structure. This makes them ideal for older buildings or those with weight restrictions.
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Easy Installation: Single-ply roofs are generally easier and faster to install compared to other flat roof systems. The prefabricated membranes can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted, depending on the specific material and project requirements.
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Energy Efficiency: Single-ply membranes, particularly white or reflective TPO, can reflect sunlight and heat, reducing energy consumption for cooling in hot climates.
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Flexibility: Single-ply membranes are highly flexible and can accommodate slight building movement without cracking. This is beneficial for buildings that may experience some thermal expansion and contraction.
Choosing the right flat roof system for your Ottawa property requires careful consideration of factors like budget, desired lifespan, maintenance requirements, and compatibility with the existing building structure. Consulting with a qualified roofing professional from Sanderson Roofing who can assess your specific needs and recommend the most suitable option is highly recommended.
The Importance of Regular Flat Roof Maintenance
Flat roofs are exposed to the elements year-round and require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here's why a proactive approach to flat roof maintenance is crucial:
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Early Leak Detection: Regular inspections by a professional roofer can identify minor leaks or vulnerabilities before they escalate into major problems. Early detection allows for timely repairs, preventing costly water damage to your building's interior and structure.
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Extended Roof Lifespan: Proper maintenance practices like cleaning debris, resealing seams, and addressing minor issues can significantly extend the lifespan of your flat roof. This translates to significant cost savings in the long run compared to premature roof replacement.
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Improved Energy Efficiency: A clean and well-maintained flat roof reflects sunlight more effectively, particularly with white or reflective TPO membranes. This can lower your cooling costs in the summer by reducing heat absorption in the building.
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Enhanced Curb Appeal: A well-maintained flat roof with minimal visible wear and tear contributes to the overall aesthetics and curb appeal of your property. This is especially important for commercial buildings where a professional appearance is essential.
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Peace of Mind: Knowing that your flat roof is in good condition provides peace of mind and eliminates the worry of potential leaks or structural damage. This allows you to focus on other aspects of property management without constant concern about your roof.
Maintenance Checklist for Flat Roofs
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Schedule Bi-Annual Inspections: Have a qualified roofer inspect your flat roof twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. This allows them to identify potential issues like loose seams, punctures, debris accumulation, or signs of ponding water.
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Clean Regularly: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from your flat roof regularly to prevent them from clogging drains and contributing to moisture buildup.
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Address Ponding Water: Flat roofs are designed with a slight slope to encourage water drainage. However, if you notice any areas with ponding water, it's crucial to address the issue promptly. A professional roofer can assess the cause and recommend solutions like adjusting drainage or repairing dips in the roof surface.
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Inspect Seams and Flashing: Regularly inspect the seams and flashing around roof penetrations like vents, pipes, and skylights for any signs of cracking, separation, or deterioration. Address any issues promptly to prevent leaks.
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Maintain Vegetation Control: Avoid planting trees or shrubs near your flat roof, as overhanging branches can damage the membrane and create pathways for water infiltration.
Incoporating these maintenance practices into your routine, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your flat roof, minimize the need for costly repairs, and ensure a watertight and energy-efficient building envelope. A proactive approach to flat roof maintenance is an investment that pays off in the long run.