Flat Roofing in New York City
Flat roof repairs and new flat roof systems for brownstones, row houses and commercial buildings.
Flat Roofing
Flat Roof Repair & Installation for NYC Buildings
Flat and low-slope roofs are everywhere in New York City. They top brownstones, row houses, apartment buildings, storefronts and mixed-use properties in every borough. Because water drains more slowly from a flat surface, even a small opening in the roof can turn into a leak that spreads beneath the roofing before anyone notices.
Royal Roofing repairs and replaces flat roof systems for homeowners, landlords and business owners. We seal seams and penetrations, address areas where water ponds and make sure water has a clear path to the drains, scuppers and gutters. We also pay close attention to the flashing at parapet walls, bulkheads and roof edges, because that is where many flat roof leaks start.
Every flat roof project starts with a free, no-obligation estimate. We inspect the roof, explain its condition in plain language and recommend the right solution, whether that is a targeted repair or a complete new flat roof system.
- Flat Roof Repairs
- Flat Roof Replacement
- Seam & Penetration Sealing
- Drainage Improvements
Warning Signs
Common Flat Roof Problems
Flat roofs fail in different ways than pitched roofs. Watch for these common problems on your building.
Ponding Water
Water that sits on the roof for days after rain adds weight and speeds up wear on the roofing material.
Blisters and Bubbles
Raised bubbles in the roof surface can trap moisture underneath and eventually crack open.
Cracks and Splits
Sun, heat and cold make flat roofing expand and contract, which can lead to cracks over time.
Open Seams
Seams that pull apart or lose their seal are one of the most common sources of flat roof leaks.
Failed Flashing
Flashing at parapet walls, bulkheads and roof edges can loosen and let water into the building.
Clogged Drains
Blocked drains and scuppers keep water on the roof and can push it under the roofing membrane.
Our Flat Roof Services
Complete Flat Roof Services
From a single open seam to a complete new roof system, we handle every part of flat roofing for New York City properties. Each project is planned around the building, the roof surface and how water drains from it.
Many flat roofs connect to gutters and downspouts at the roof edge, so drainage is part of every flat roof job we take on. Learn more about our gutter services, or see our general roof repair page.
Flat Roof Repairs
We patch blisters, cracks and open seams and repair damaged areas so the roof stays watertight.
Flat Roof Replacement
When a flat roof reaches the end of its life, we remove the old system and install a new one built for long-term performance.
Parapet & Edge Flashing
We repair and seal flashing at parapet walls, bulkheads and roof edges, where many flat roof leaks begin.
Drainage Improvements
We clear drains and scuppers and address low spots so water moves off the roof instead of sitting on it.
Our Process
Our Flat Roof Process
A straightforward approach from the first inspection to a watertight roof.
Reach Out
Call (718) 587-0209 or send the form to request a visit.
Roof Inspection
We check the surface, seams, flashing and drainage across the roof.
Clear Estimate
You get a straightforward, no-obligation price for the work.
Repair or Install
We complete the work carefully, keeping the building protected.
Cleanup
We clean the roof, clear debris and review the finished work with you.
Flat Roof Guide
How to Keep a Flat Roof in Good Shape
A little attention goes a long way with flat roofs. These simple habits help you catch problems early and extend the life of the roof.
Keep Drains and Scuppers Clear
Leaves, dirt and debris collect quickly on flat roofs. Clear drains and scuppers let water leave the roof instead of ponding on the surface. This is especially important in the fall, when leaves from nearby street trees can block drains within a few weeks.
Check After Major Storms
Heavy rain, wind and snow can loosen flashing and damage seams. A quick inspection after a big storm can catch problems before they turn into leaks. Look for loose flashing, debris, standing water and any new stains on the top-floor ceilings.
Watch the Parapet Walls
Parapet walls and their flashing are a common source of leaks on brownstones and row houses. Cracks or gaps at the base of these walls should be repaired promptly. The tops of parapet walls, called copings, should also be checked, since water can enter through open joints.
Limit Foot Traffic
Walking on a flat roof wears the surface over time. Keep foot traffic to a minimum and be careful when servicing rooftop equipment. If contractors need access to the roof for equipment work, ask them to protect the surface while they work.
Flat Roofs in NYC
Flat Roofs and New York City Buildings
Many of New York City's brownstones, row houses and older apartment buildings have flat roofs surrounded by parapet walls. These roofs often share walls with neighboring buildings and may have bulkheads, skylights, vents and rooftop equipment that all need proper flashing.
Because flat roofs are hard to see from the street, problems can go unnoticed until a leak appears inside the building. Regular inspections and prompt repairs help catch issues early and extend the life of the roof, which protects your tenants, your neighbors and your property.
FAQs
Flat Roofing FAQs
Answers to common questions about flat roof repair and replacement.
Ponding usually happens when drains or scuppers are blocked, or when the roof surface has low spots. Clearing the drains and correcting low areas helps water move off the roof as it should. Standing water that stays for more than a day or two after rain is worth having inspected.
Often, yes. Isolated problems such as open seams, blisters or failed flashing can usually be repaired. If the roof is failing across large areas, a replacement may be the better long-term choice. We will explain what we found and why we recommend one option over the other.
Yes. We work on flat roofs on brownstones, row houses, apartment buildings and commercial properties across New York City.
It is a good idea to have a flat roof checked regularly and after major storms, so small issues can be caught before they become leaks inside the building. Spring and fall are good times for a routine check, after winter weather and before the colder months.
Yes. Penetrations such as vents, skylights, bulkheads and equipment supports are common leak points. We repair and reseal the flashing around them.
Yes. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for flat roof repairs and replacements.
Free Estimates
Need a Roofer in
New York City?
Tell us about your roof and get a free, no-obligation estimate. We'll get back to you quickly.
Contact Us
Get In Touch
Ready to start, or just have a question? Call us or send a message and our team will get back to you quickly.
Get a Free Estimate
Your information is secure and never shared.