Flat Roofing in Virginia

What this service includes

• Membrane installation or replacement
• Insulation and tapered systems for drainage
• Flashing at parapets, curbs and drains
• Edge metal and coping

Warning signs

• Ponding water after 48 hours
• Open seams or splits
• Bubbles and blisters
• Interior stains at walls or drains

Common causes

• UV ageing
• Poor slope or blocked drains
• Traffic damage
• Failed terminations at walls and parapets

Systems and materials involved

• TPO
• EPDM
• PVC
• Modified bitumen
• Built-up
• Liquid-applied coatings

Repair or replace?

Wet insulation cannot be repaired by re-coating the surface. If a moisture survey shows saturated insulation across a meaningful area, replacement of that section is usually necessary.

How the work is carried out

1. Survey and moisture assessment
2. System selection
3. Tear-off or overlay where permitted
4. Membrane and flashing installation
5. Manufacturer inspection where a system warranty applies

What affects the cost

• Area and insulation thickness
• Tapered insulation for drainage correction
• Number of penetrations and curbs
• Access and disposal
• Warranty tier

Virginia-specific considerations

Rowhouse and historic urban properties in Richmond, Alexandria, Norfolk and Portsmouth commonly have low-slope rear sections that require different expertise than the steep-slope front roof.

Questions to ask contractors

• Did you perform a moisture survey, and what did it show?
• How will drainage be improved, not just re-covered?
• What is the warranted service life of the proposed system?
• Are you licensed in Virginia, and what is your license number?
• Can you provide a current certificate of general liability and workers' compensation insurance?
• Who pulls the permit, and which jurisdiction issues it?
• What is included in the written scope - underlayment, flashing, ventilation, decking allowance and disposal?
• What warranty covers workmanship, and what covers materials?
• Who will be on site each day, and is the crew employed by you or subcontracted?