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Flat & Rubber Roofs in Lowell, MA
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Lowell's flat roofs
Where Lowell has flat roofs
Lowell has more flat and low-slope roof than most of the towns around it, because of its triple-deckers and multi-families. You'll find them on:
- Triple-decker main roofsMost triple-deckers have a flat or nearly flat main roof that drains to the back or to an interior drain.
- Porch roofsEvery level of porch on a multi-family has its own small low-slope roof.
- Rear additions and dormersShed dormers and back additions are often too flat for shingles.
- Garages and breezewaysCommon on capes and ranches in the Highlands and South Lowell.
Shingles can't go on a roof this flat. Water sits too long and works its way under them. These roofs need a membrane.
Warning signs
Signs your flat roof needs attention
- Ponding water that's still there two days after the rain stops
- Blisters or bubbles in the membrane
- Open seams or edges pulling away at walls and parapets
- Cracked or shrunken membrane pulling tight at the corners
- Soft spots when you walk on it, which usually means wet insulation or decking
- Clogged drains or scuppers, which cause most ponding
- Top-floor leaks, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt
Materials
Flat roof materials: EPDM, TPO and modified bitumen
EPDM rubber. The black rubber roof you see on a lot of Lowell triple-deckers. It's durable and flexible in the cold, and it's straightforward to repair. Seams are glued or taped, and the seams are where it eventually fails.
TPO. A white membrane with heat-welded seams. It reflects summer heat, which helps keep top-floor units cooler, and welded seams are strong.
Modified bitumen. A layered, asphalt-based roll roofing, either torch-applied or self-adhered. It's tough underfoot, which helps on roofs that get walked on.
Each one can last a long time when it's installed well, flashed properly at the walls and the drains are kept clear. Ask the contractor why they recommend one over another for your building.
Repair or replace?
A few open seams or one blister can be patched. A roof with widespread cracking, multiple leaks or wet insulation underneath needs a new membrane. If water ponds because the roof doesn't drain, a replacement can include tapered insulation to give it the slope it's missing.
Triple-deckers
Flat roofs on Lowell triple-deckers
Drains and scuppers. Many triple-decker leaks start with a clogged drain. Leaves and debris block it, water backs up and finds a seam. Have the drains checked every fall.
Walls and parapets. The edges where the roof turns up a wall or parapet are where flashing fails first. A new roof should include new flashing at every wall.
Snow. Flat roofs hold snow. In a heavy winter, keep drains clear so meltwater has somewhere to go. If you're worried about the load, hire a pro to clear it. Shovels can cut the membrane.
Tenants. Most flat roof replacements on occupied buildings get done with tenants at home. Ask the contractor about the schedule and dumpster placement so you can give notice. For the whole picture on multi-families, see roofing in Lowell.
FAQ
Lowell flat roof questions
What's the difference between EPDM and TPO?
EPDM is a black rubber membrane with glued or taped seams. TPO is a white membrane with heat-welded seams that reflects summer heat. Both are common on Lowell multi-families, and the right choice depends on the building.
Is some water pooling on a flat roof normal?
A little water that dries up within a day or two is common. Water that sits longer than that usually means a clogged drain or a sagging section, and it shortens the life of the roof.
Can a flat roof be repaired or does it need replacing?
Open seams, small punctures and isolated blisters can be repaired. Widespread cracking, multiple leaks or wet insulation underneath usually mean it's time for a new membrane.
Should I shovel snow off my flat roof?
Usually not yourself. Shovels and ice picks can cut the membrane. Keep the drains clear, and if the snow load worries you, hire a roofer to clear it safely.
Can I put a deck on my flat roof?
Sometimes, but it needs the right membrane underneath, proper support and a building permit. Talk to the roofer before the deck goes on, not after.
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