Whether you’ve realized it or not, not all chimneys are alike. Knowing which type you have is essential to providing proper home maintenance

There are three main types:

Single-Walled Metal: Single-walled metal chimneys look take the shape of a thin metal pipe sticking up from the roof with a circular top. This type is commonly found in older homes since newer building codes have favored masonry.

Masonry: These are your standard brick chimneys and are currently viewed as the safest. Masonry chimneys often come with a liner pre-installed to ensure proper venting.

Pre-Fabricated Metal: This type is also commonly referred to as “factory-built“ and is mostly used for commercial structures.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs have very little slope when compared to roofs on a home or residential building. There are several replacement options for your flat roof.

Flat Roof Options

A Built-Up Roof with gravel as the top layer.

This option is very common because it is very inexpensive, and most facility managers and companies like to save money. BUR is also a very attractive and aesthetically pleasing roof as the top coat is typically gravel and looks very nice. It is also a great insulator because it has many layers.

Modified Bitumen. This is a single ply roofing system that is often rolled onto the roof surface. The older systems require the material to be laid on the roof and then heated with a blowtorch. This is a dangerous installation method, so newer systems have been designed that allow the material to be peeled and stuck to the roof surface. This is one of the more environmentally friendly flat roof options as it reflects the sun and therefore cuts back on energy costs.

PVC roofing system. This roofing system is highly reflective and very durable. PVC is one of the top flat roof options because it is easy to install and lacks water permeability, meaning it can resist water pounding.

Single Ply EPDM. EPDM is similar to PVC as both are single ply, but EPDM is a rubber compound rather than plastic. EPDM systems are very durable and have built a reputation around durability, but they are not without their weak points. The seams in the EPDM system are treated with adhesives and this makes the seams vulnerable over long periods of time. This sealing system often leads to maintenance on the seams, or building owners living with leaks.