Is Rolled Asphalt Roofing Right for You?

In Florida, flat roofs are common on both residential and commercial roofs. While there are many flat roofing options, rolled asphalt roofing is a popular choice across the Sunshine State. But is it the right fit for your structure?

That’s what we’re here to help you figure out. As a local roofing company, PITCH Roofing contractors have been installing rolled flat roofs in Florida for a long time. We’re putting that expertise to work by explaining everything you need to know about rolled roofing before you commit to a roof replacement. Keep reading for our complete guide!

What Is Rolled Asphalt Roofing?

In terms of materials, rolled asphalt roofing is very similar to shingle roofing. Both options start with a fiberglass baseboard that is then coated in a thick layer of asphalt. To top it off, the asphalt then receives a coating of protective stone granules.

This is basic rolled asphalt roofing. But at PITCH, we don’t want to give you a low-quality roofing system. That’s why we provide modified bitumen flat roof replacements. With this approach, your rolled roof has rubberized polymers that greatly increase its water resistance. This means that even if water takes some time to drain from your low-slope roof, you’ll still have protection from leaks.

There are many advantages to rolled flat roofs. Like shingles, rolled roofing is very affordable. On average, modified bitumen costs $4 to $8 per square foot, making it about as affordable as asphalt architectural shingles. You can also expect to enjoy low installation costs, since rolled roofing is quick and easy to install. Less labor means a cheaper roof replacement!

Conventional rolled roofing is not the most durable of materials. But modified bitumen is much hardier and better suited for the Florida elements. These roofs tend to last about 20 years and can even withstand severe storms. This is a great lifespan for a flat roof, especially one at such a low price point!

Is Rolled Asphalt Roofing Right for Your Structure?

Rolled roofing can be a good fit for any flat roofing system. But is it right for yours? We’re going to look at some of the most common types of jobs where we install these roofs to help you decide if rolled asphalt roofing is the right material for you:

• Shed or Garage Roofing: If there’s a flat roof over your shed or garage, rolled asphalt roofing could be the perfect fit. It’s durable, affordable, and long-lasting enough to provide long-term protection.
• Residential Roofing: For homeowners on a budget, there is no better option than a rolled modified bitumen flat roof. It’s especially common to get this material over a carport or porch.
• Commercial Roofing: Since it’s usually dark, rolled asphalt roofing helps cover signs of dirt, which is a great advantage for hospitals and other structures where you can see the roof from inside the building. It’s also good for roofs that see a lot of foot traffic.
• Budget Roofing: If you’re on a tight budget but still need a reliable roof, there is no better option than rolled modified bitumen. It’s as cheap as quality roofing gets, and it’s durable enough to keep your property protected against tropical storms and hurricanes.
• Fast Roofing: Rolled roofing is perfect for when you need a roof installed ASAP. With a quick and simple installation process, most roofs can be successfully replaced in one day. Roof replacements don’t get faster than this!

As you can see, there are a wide variety of situations where rolled asphalt roofing could be the right choice for you. This affordable, versatile roofing material has a lot to offer. Sometimes, however, there may be a better material for your structure. That’s why it’s important to be aware of other flat roofing materials available to you.

Alternatives to Rolled Roofing

Rolled modified bitumen roofing is great in a lot of situations. Sometimes, however, you need something a little more durable and waterproof. For Floridians in this position, we recommend thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) flat roofing.

TPO is a rubberized roofing membrane. This means that, similar to rolled asphalt roofing, it is rolled out across your roof. Unlike rolled roofing, however, TPO is a rubber roofing system. This means that it is much more resistant to water intrusions. It’s also better at withstanding Florida’s harsh UV rays, which helps it last longer.

As you might expect, the enhanced performance of TPO comes at a cost. Thankfully, though, TPO is only slightly more expensive than modified bitumen rolled roofing. On average, TPO roofing costs $4 to $10 per square foot. And since it’s white, it helps reflect UV rays away from your structure, which can help with cooling it and lowering monthly energy bills.

In Florida, a TPO roof can last anywhere from 20-30 years. These are durable, long-lasting roofing systems. While rolled asphalt roofing is great, if you want an upgraded option, TPO roofing is certainly worth considering.

Get a Free Estimate for a New Flat Roof

Whether you decide on rolled modified bitumen or TPO, PITCH Roofing has you covered. Our crew of dedicated local roofing veterans is ready to get you a new roofing system that’s built to last. And with world-class customer service, we know how to keep our customers happy throughout the roofing process. We even make it easy to get started!

It all begins with a free, no-obligation roofing estimate. To secure your quote, call us at 727-677-4824 or schedule your flat roof estimate online. We’ll then send out a roofing professional to personally inspect your roof and provide a detailed, itemized estimate. This way, you know exactly where your money is going and have assurance that you’re purchasing a completed roofing system!

Getting a new roof is a big decision. If you need the perfect balance between affordability and quality, there is no better option than rolled asphalt roofing. And when you need quality, reliable roofers, there is no better crew than PITCH. Give our roofing experts a chance to earn your business, and we’ll show you the difference that roofing done right can make!