Many commercial roofing systems are flat, creating easy access for maintenance, repairs, and HVAC work. However, these roofs can allow rain and snow to accumulate, resulting in freeze-thaw cycles that promote leaks and other premature wear and tear. Here’s what you need to know about tapered roofs—flat roofs with tapered insulation that encourages timely drainage.

How They Work

Depending on factors such as square footage, HVAC systems, skylights, and existing drainage features, tapered roofing systems can feature one-way, two-way, three-way, or four-way slopes.

One-way, or shed, slopes allow water to flow either off the roof edge into the gutters or into internal roof drains. Two-way slopes encourage water to flow into gutters or internal drains, while three-way and four-way slopes typically move rain and snow into central drainage systems. Both gutters and internal drainage systems require routine cleaning to keep water and melted snow from pooling on the roof.

Flat Roof Regulations

Commercial flat roofs generally need tapered features, as per national and state guidelines. The Uniform Building Code, for example, requires flat roofing systems to feature at least ¼ inch of slope per foot; however, state guidelines may allow slopes that are 1/8 inch per foot.

Check the commercial flat roof regulations for your state, whether you are building from the ground up or retrofitting an existing system. In Wisconsin, for example, you must construct all roofs for proper drainage as well as snow loads due to harsh winter weather.

Benefits

In addition to preventing rainwater and melting snow from pooling on the roof and promoting wear and tear, tapered features provide insulating properties to maintain a comfortable, energy-efficient commercial building. Wood, metal, EPS roof foam, and other tapered materials also reduce maintenance and related costs because of fewer debris deposits. They also ensure building or remodeling compliance to avoid costly delays and fees.

Discuss your flat-roofing needs with the residential and commercial contractors at Bel-Aire Home Improvement. Based in Platteville, WI, and serving the Tri-State area, this team offers 24/7 emergency repairs as well as siding and window services. Call (608) 348-­2381 today for a free estimate, and like them on Facebook for more home and business improvement tips.