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Flat Roof Cover Boards

by | Apr 19, 2023 | Flat Roofing

As a proud Fort Worth local, Texas Select Construction understands the importance of quality roofing for both residential and commercial properties. One component of a flat roof people tend to overlook is the cover board. In this blog post, we’ll explain what a roof cover board is, why it’s essential, and the types of cover boards available. We’ll also explore why flat roof cover boards are crucial for commercial properties.

What Is a Roof Cover Board and Why Is it Important?

A roof cover board constitutes a material layer positioned atop the roof deck and beneath the roofing system. It provides a smooth, flat surface for installing roofing materials while offering additional protection for the roof deck. Cover boards can help prevent damage to the roof deck caused by foot traffic, tools, or equipment during installation. They also help improve the overall energy efficiency of a building by providing an additional layer of insulation.

Types of Roof Cover Board

Roof cover boards are an essential part of a roofing system, and there are various types of cover boards available. In this section, we will discuss the different types of cover boards and their specific properties and benefits.

  • Gypsum is a low-cost option that is commonly used for residential roofs. It is a type of mineral commonly found in sedimentary rocks. Compressed gypsum forms the basis of the gypsum cover board. Roofers use it to provide a smooth surface for the installation of roofing materials. This type of cover board is cost-effective and widely available, making it a popular choice for residential roofing. However, it is not as durable as some other cover board options, so it may not be the best choice for roofs with heavy foot traffic or equipment usage.
  • Perlite, with its fire-resistant properties, finds common use in commercial roofs as another type of cover board. It is a lightweight, volcanic glass that is formed when lava cools rapidly. The Perlite cover board comprises expanded perlite, a porous material offering excellent insulation properties. It is also resistant to fire, making it an ideal choice for buildings that require extra fire protection. Additionally, perlite cover board is resistant to water and pests, making it a perfect choice for roofs that receive exposure to harsh weather conditions.
  • High-density polyisocyanurate (polyiso) is a popular option for cover boards because of its high R-value and strength. Polyiso cover board consists of polyisocyanurate foam sandwiched between two layers of glass facers coated with protective material. It offers exceptional insulation and exhibits high resistance to moisture, rendering it a prime selection for roofs in severe weather conditions. Polyiso cover board is also resistant to mold, making it a good option for roofs in humid environments. Additionally, polyiso cover board is strong and durable, making it ideal for roofs exposed to heavy foot traffic or equipment usage.
  • Fiberboard is a cost-effective option that is often used for commercial roofs. Manufacturers compress wood fibers, coat them with asphalt, and subject them to pressure for its creation. Fiberboard cover board is highly resistant to water and mold, making it an ideal choice for roofs that are located in humid environments. Furthermore, a fiberboard cover board exhibits strength and durability, rendering it an excellent option for roofs enduring heavy foot traffic or equipment usage.

Choosing the right cover board for a roofing system is essential to ensure the longevity and durability of the roof. Gypsum, perlite, high-density polyiso, and fiberboard are all popular options for cover board materials. Each has its own specific properties and benefits, and the choice of material will depend on the particular needs and requirements of the roof.

Choose a Roof Cover Board for a Flat Roof on Your Commercial Properties

Flat roofs are a popular choice for commercial properties because of their affordability and ease of installation. However, they are also more susceptible to damage from foot traffic, tools, and equipment. This is why a flat roof cover board is crucial for commercial properties. It can help protect the roof deck from damage caused by foot traffic and other factors. Cover boards also provide an additional layer of insulation, which can help improve the energy efficiency of the building.

Contact Texas Select Construction for Your Roofing Needs

A flat roof cover board is an important component of any roofing system. It provides a smooth, flat surface for installing the roofing materials while also offering additional protection for the roof deck. Cover boards can help prevent damage to the roof deck caused by foot traffic, tools, or equipment during the installation process. They also help improve the overall energy efficiency of a building by providing an additional layer of insulation.

Contact our team of professionals at Texas Select Construction today for all your roofing needs, including cover board installation.

 

 

Related reading: Roof Decking For Flat Roofs

last Updated: 08-31-2023

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