What Are the Three Types of Flat Roofs? | Tulsa Roofing Guide
If you own a commercial property or a modern-style home in Tulsa, OK, you might already know that flat roofs are a common choice. But what you may not know is that there are actually different types of flat roofs — each with its materials, benefits, and maintenance needs.
As a roofing contractor in Tulsa, Right Now Roofing has worked on hundreds of flat roofs across Sand Springs, Broken Arrow, and Tulsa. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, knowing the differences between flat roof types helps you make smarter choices when it’s time for installation, repairs, or replacement.
So, let’s break down the three most common types of flat roofs used today, and what makes each one unique.
Why Choose a Flat Roof in Tulsa?
Before we get into the types, let’s quickly touch on why flat roofs are so popular in Tulsa and surrounding areas like Owasso, Jenks, and Sand Springs.
Flat roofs are:
Affordable
Easier to install on large commercial buildings
Space-efficient (ideal for HVAC units, solar panels, and even rooftop patios)
Great for modern residential designs
Plus, Tulsa’s moderate climate makes flat roofing a practical option, especially when installed by a professional roofing contractor Tulsa residents trust.
The 3 Types of Flat Roofs Explained
1. Built-Up Roof (BUR)
Built-up roofing, often called BUR, is the “traditional” flat roofing system that’s been used for over 100 years. It consists of several layers of roofing felt (or fabric) alternated with layers of hot asphalt or tar, topped with gravel, or a mineral-coated cap sheet.
Pros of BUR:
Excellent waterproofing due to multiple layers
Provides great UV protection
Durable and long-lasting (15-30 years when maintained properly)
Heavy, which helps resist wind uplift (important for Tulsa's stormy seasons)
Cons of BUR:
Installation is messy and labor-intensive
The weight may require additional structural support
Needs regular maintenance to prevent cracks or leaks
BUR is still widely used for commercial roofing in Tulsa because of its durability and ability to withstand Oklahoma’s changing weather.
2. Modified Bitumen Roof (Mod-Bit)
Modified bitumen is an evolution of the traditional BUR system. It’s a single-ply or multi-ply rolled roofing material made from asphalt and reinforced with fiberglass or polyester. It can be applied using heat, cold adhesives, or self-adhering sheets.
Pros of Modified Bitumen:
More flexible than BUR (ideal for Tulsa's freeze-thaw cycles)
Faster installation
Moderate cost compared to other flat roofing systems
Good resistance to punctures and tears
Cons of Modified Bitumen:
Still requires seams, which could lead to leaks if not installed properly
Lifespan is shorter than some single-ply options (15-20 years)
Can be more prone to surface cracking without proper maintenance
At Right Now Roofing, we often recommend modified bitumen for commercial properties and modern homes in Sand Springs and Tulsa that need a balance between cost and durability.
3. Single-Ply Membrane Roof (EPDM, TPO, or PVC)
This is the most modern and increasingly popular flat roofing system for both commercial roofing Tulsa clients and some residential applications. Single-ply membranes are large sheets of synthetic rubber or plastic that are rolled out and adhered to the roof.
The three most common types are:
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) – a durable synthetic rubber
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) – energy-efficient and heat-reflective
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – strong, chemical-resistant, and highly reflective
Pros of Single-Ply Membranes:
Lightweight but highly durable
Quick and relatively easy to install
Excellent for energy efficiency (especially TPO and PVC)
Resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and punctures
Lifespan of 20-30+ years depending on the material
Cons of Single-Ply Membranes:
Vulnerable to punctures without protective layers
Seams need to be properly heat-welded or sealed
Some materials may have higher upfront costs
For many commercial buildings in Tulsa and Sand Springs, single-ply membranes like TPO are the go-to choice thanks to their energy efficiency and excellent lifespan.
Which Flat Roof is Best for Tulsa Properties?
The answer depends on:
Your budget
Property type (residential or commercial)
Desired lifespan
Energy efficiency needs
For example:
BUR is great for heavy-duty, long-lasting protection but requires more maintenance.
Modified Bitumen offers a flexible, cost-effective solution.
Single-ply membranes (TPO) are ideal if you want energy savings and low maintenance.
A qualified roofing contractor in Tulsa like Right Now Roofing can help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific property.
Flat Roof Maintenance Matters
No matter which flat roof type you choose, maintenance is key. Flat roofs don’t naturally shed water like steep-slope roofs. That means:
Routine inspections
Debris removal
Sealant checks
Prompt repairs
All these tasks are essential to getting the full lifespan out of your roof. That’s why working with local, experienced roofing contractors is crucial.
For property owners, you can find helpful building maintenance guidelines directly from the City of Tulsa's official site — a great resource for permits, codes, and local roofing policies.
Why Work with a Local Tulsa Roofing Contractor?
Flat roofing isn't just about materials; it's about knowing how those materials perform in Tulsa’s climate. Local weather often includes hail, high winds, sudden temperature swings, and heavy rains. As a roofing contractor in Tulsa trusts, Right Now Roofing has first-hand experience with these conditions.
We proudly serve:
Tulsa
Sand Springs
Broken Arrow
Owasso
Jenks
And surrounding areas
When you work with us, you get a team that understands the unique challenges of roofing right here in Green Country.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right flat roof is more than just picking a material. It’s about matching your needs with your budget, property type, and Tulsa’s environment. Whether you're considering BUR, modified bitumen, or single-ply membranes, consulting with a professional roofing contractor is the smartest move.
At Right Now Roofing, we’ll help you select the perfect flat roofing system and keep it performing at its best for years to come.
Call Right Now Roofing Today!
📍 3901 Stone Crest Ct, Sand Springs, OK 74063
📞 (918) 313-7663
🌐 Visit our Tulsa Roofing Page
