A flat roof that ponds water is a flat roof with a problem. Standing water degrades membrane material, compresses insulation, and finds every weak point in the system. Great Lakes Roofing & Maintenance solves ponding with tapered insulation that creates positive drainage, minimum quarter-inch per foot slope to drains, scuppers, or roof edges.
Modified bitumen is our recommendation for residential flat roofs and high-traffic commercial applications. Two-ply torch-applied SBS system with a granulated cap sheet handles foot traffic, thermal cycling, and IL UV exposure. It's the toughest flat roof membrane for everyday abuse.
Our Flat Roofing Process
Free Evaluation
Our inspector checks every detail: ponding areas, seam separations, flashing failures, clogged drains, UV degradation, and blistering. Core samples test insulation moisture content. You get photos and an honest assessment.
Your Options
We present options, not ultimatums. If a repair extends your flat roof 5-10 years, that might be the smartest investment right now. If the insulation is waterlogged and the membrane is failing, replacement is the answer. We lay out the facts.
Expert Flat Roof Crew
Insulation board cut and installed with staggered joints. Membrane installed over insulation per manufacturer specs. All penetrations (pipes, vents, HVAC curbs) receive custom-fabricated flashing. Drains and scuppers cleared and properly connected to the new membrane system.
Completion & Warranty
Final roof inspection with drainage verification. Warranty paperwork provided. We recommend a maintenance plan to keep your flat roof performing and your warranty valid for its full term.
What Great Lakes Customers Say
"From the first phone call to the final walkthrough, everything was seamless. The team was courteous and efficient. Already recommended them to two friends."
"We called expecting to wait days, but they were here the same afternoon. Fair pricing, quality work, and they kept us informed every step of the way."
"After getting several quotes, these guys stood out with their honesty and knowledge. No pressure, just straightforward advice and excellent workmanship."
Why Choose Great Lakes Roofing & Maintenance for Flat Roofing?
Core Sampling & Testing
Before recommending replacement or coating, we core sample the roof to check insulation moisture. Waterlogged insulation means tear-off. Dry insulation means options.
Manufacturer Warranties
15-20 year manufacturer warranties on new flat roof installations. Coating systems warrantied for 10-15 years. All backed by certified installation.
Electronic Leak Detection
We use electronic testing to pinpoint flat roof leaks without destructive investigation. Find the source, fix the source, move on.
Drainage Solutions
We solve ponding water with tapered insulation systems. Minimum quarter-inch per foot slope to drains or edges. Ponding is the number one flat roof killer. We eliminate it.