I want to replace an old gravel and tar roof on a 1958 split level. The pitch is low – 1.5/12. I don’t want the look of shingles, and I am concerned about weight given the low pitch. What alternatives do I have in terms of materials and roofing systems?
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Shingles would not be appropriate for that shallow a pitch.
A fully adhered EPDM rubber or some form of modified bitumen would be what you might want to use.
A copper locked seam and soldered roof might work,depending on the size.
Certainteed self stick Lo-Slope or torchdown(have a pro do it, fire bad!) The Lo-Slope a "handy" homeowner can do if you take your time, read the directions carefully and pay close attention to protrusions, transitions and edges. Ask if you want my lengthy step by step...
See this is your first post, welcome.
Knowing your geographic area on the profile would help (double click on your won name)
A neighbor here in PNW used interlocking faux clay tiles (full interlocking plastic) successfully, dont know the brand. In southwest or far south, the UV may age that type product prematurely.
Is there any way you can raise the roof in that area?
Alternatives are limited on flat roofs...around here you either have tar and gravel or spray on foam roof, both are professionally applied. Not by me cause I ain't no professional!
>>>>>>>>>>>I want to replace an old gravel and tar roof on a 1958 split level. The pitch is low - 1.5/12. I don't want the look of shingles, and I am concerned about weight given the low pitch. What alternatives do I have in terms of materials and roofing systems?
Asphalt shingles are not an option with that low of a pitch, but the weight would not be an issue.
Your options are: membranes (epdm, tpo, pvc), coatings (latex re-inforced, spray systems), metal (flat seam soldered copper or lead coated copper and soldered terne II), and the peel and stick or torch grade products or a BUR which is what you've got.
Find a reputable contractor in your area that's well versed in some of the above. I've been roofing for 20 yrs and won't touch half of what I've listed above, but am very proficient in the rest. If you're looking for DIY systems, I'd look at the epdm or the peel and stick systems. You still need to tear off the old before you apply the new.
http://grantlogan.net/