Trusted Flat Roofing Contractor in San Francisco
Family-owned and Diamond Certified since 1982, serving the Bay Area with exceptional quality and customer service.
San Francisco's Flat Roofing Experts Since 1982
Sure Roofing & Waterproofing has been San Francisco's trusted flat roofing company since 1982. As a Diamond Certified, family-owned contractor, we understand the unique demands that San Francisco's climate places on flat and low-slope roofs.
Our team specializes in torch-down and modified bitumen roof replacements as well as acrylic, urethane, epoxy, and silicone-based elastomeric roof upgrades, providing property owners with durable, long-lasting solutions that can avoid removing an existing roof. Learn more about our mission and team.
Our Flat Roof Services
Sure Roofing offers expert solutions for San Francisco's flat roofs, including complete roof replacements and protective coating systems designed for long-lasting durability. Whether your flat roof needs a full replacement or you're looking to extend the life of an existing roof, we provide options tailored to your property's needs and budget.
Flat Roof Replacement
Complete APP (Atactic Polypropylene), SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene), and SA (Self-Adhered) modified bitumen roof system installations designed to provide proven, reliable protection against San Francisco's fog, wind, and rain. Our replacement systems are chosen and built to be the best roofs for the demands of the Bay Area climate.
Silicone-Based Elastomeric Roof Upgrades
For property owners looking to extend the life of an existing roof without a full replacement, we specialize in acrylic, urethane, epoxy, and silicone-based elastomeric roof upgrades. These systems add a seamless, protective layer backed by manufacturer warranties of up to 25 years, including worry-free NDL (No Dollar Limit) warranties for qualified applications.
Flat Roof Maintenance
Preventative maintenance programs and regular inspections to extend the life of your flat roof. Routine maintenance is especially important for flat roofs in San Francisco's moist, foggy climate.
Flat Roof Systems We Install
San Francisco's flat and low-slope roofs require systems engineered for durability, water resistance, and performance in our unique coastal climate. Sure Roofing applies its decades of roofing experience to help our customers select only the best, proven flat roof systems designed to withstand decades of Bay Area weather.
Modified Bitumen (Torch-Down) Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing combines asphalt with polymerized rubber or plastic, reinforced with fiberglass for strength and flexibility. This system is one of the most commonly used flat roofing systems in the Bay Area due to its durability and weather resistance. We install both APP (Atactic Polypropylene) and SBS (Styrene Butadiene Styrene) modified bitumen membranes using heat-activated (AKA "torch-down"), mechanically attached, and self-adhering application methods and assemblies. These systems provide high tensile strength, making them ideal for flat roofs with foot traffic or multiple penetrations.
For homes in forested areas like Woodside or Mill Valley, we offer modified bitumen FR (Fire Retardant) products designed to comply with fire-resistance and house hardening codes. Modified bitumen FR is a high-performance, asphalt-based roofing membrane reinforced with fiberglass or polyester for increased fire resistance on low-slope or flat roofs.
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Features:
Superior waterproofing with heat-welded seams
Flexibility to expand and contract with temperature changes
UV-resistant cap sheets available
Compatible with cool roof coatings for energy efficiency
Long-term manufacturer warranties available
Silicone Roof Coating Systems
Silicone-based elastomeric coatings create a seamless, water-resistant barrier over existing flat roofs. Unlike acrylic coatings, silicone performs exceptionally well in areas with ponding water, making it ideal for San Francisco's flat roofs. Our silicone coating systems are backed by manufacturer warranties of up to 20 years depending on application thickness.
Features:
Resists ponding water without degrading
Reflects UV rays to reduce cooling costs
Creates a monolithic, seamless membrane
Can be applied over modified bitumen, metal, EPDM, TPO, and other substrates
Does not chalk, crack, or become brittle over time
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Traditional built-up roofing systems consist of multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, creating a durable, time-tested solution for flat roofs. BUR systems are common on older San Francisco buildings and can be maintained or restored with protective coatings.
Common Flat Roof Challenges in San Francisco
San Francisco's marine climate creates specific challenges for flat roofs that property owners should understand. Our team has 40+ years of experience addressing these issues.
Ponding Water
Flat roofs that do not drain properly within 48 hours after rainfall are experiencing ponding, which can lead to membrane deterioration, leaks, and structural damage over time. Proper drainage design and regular maintenance are essential.
Fog and Marine Moisture
San Francisco's frequent fog introduces constant moisture that can accelerate wear on roofing materials. This is particularly problematic in neighborhoods like the Sunset District and Richmond, where fog-related moisture evaporation rates are slower.
Thermal Cycling
Temperature fluctuations between coastal and inland areas can vary significantly, sometimes by 20-30 degrees within miles. This causes roofing materials to expand and contract repeatedly, which can lead to cracking, seam separation, and membrane fatigue over time.
Salt Air Exposure
Salt particles carried by marine air can corrode roofing components and break down certain materials faster than in inland areas. Flat roof systems and coatings must be selected with coastal conditions in mind.
UV Exposure
Even in foggy San Francisco, UV radiation breaks down unprotected roofing materials over time. Cool roof coatings and UV-resistant cap sheets help protect flat roofs from sun damage.
Why Silicone Coatings Work for San Francisco Flat Roofs
For flat roofs that are structurally sound but showing signs of age, silicone-based elastomeric coatings offer a cost-effective alternative to full replacement. These coatings are particularly well-suited to San Francisco's climate for several reasons:
Ponding Water Resistance
Unlike acrylic coatings that can degrade when exposed to standing water, silicone coatings maintain their integrity even in areas where water pools.
Moisture Performance
Silicone creates an airtight, watertight, and vapor-tight barrier, helping prevent moisture penetration even in foggy conditions.
Flexibility
Silicone coatings expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking or losing adhesion.
Longevity
With proper application thickness, silicone roof coatings can provide protection for 20-25 years, backed by manufacturer warranties.
Energy Efficiency
Reflective silicone coatings help reduce heat absorption, lowering cooling costs and contributing to compliance with California's Title 24 energy standards.
Why Choose Sure Roofing for Your Flat Roof Project
Sure Roofing has been protecting San Francisco's flat roofs since 1982. Our experience with the Bay Area's unique climate, building styles, and roofing challenges makes us the trusted choice for flat roof replacement and coating projects.
Diamond Certified company with 40+ years of Bay Area expertise
Family-owned since 1982 with a commitment to quality and customer service
Specialists in torch-down and modified bitumen flat roof systems
Silicone coating systems with manufacturer warranties of up to 20 years
Educational approach that empowers property owners to make informed decisions
Fair pricing with transparent estimates
Experience with residential homes, multi-unit buildings, and commercial properties
Serving the Bay Area, Including San Francisco, Marin County, and San Mateo County
Our flat roof services are available throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area. Whether you own a home with a classic San Francisco flat roof, manage a multi-unit building, or need flat roofing for a commercial property, Sure Roofing delivers expert installation and coating services built for our local climate.
Ready to protect your flat roof? Schedule your free estimate today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime!
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Sure Roofing specializes in torch-down and modified bitumen roof replacements as well as silicone-based elastomeric roof upgrades. These flat roof systems are designed for San Francisco's climate and provide durable, long-lasting protection for residential and commercial properties.
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A silicone-based elastomeric roof upgrade adds a seamless, protective coating layer over an existing flat roof. This system extends roof life without requiring a full replacement and is backed by manufacturer warranties of up to 20 years.
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Silicone roof coating systems installed by Sure Roofing are backed by manufacturer warranties of up to 20 years depending on application thickness. The specific warranty available depends on your project requirements.
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Modified bitumen roofing, also called torch-down roofing, is a flat roof system that combines asphalt with polymerized rubber or plastic for durability. This system uses heat-welded seams for waterproofing and is one of the most commonly used flat roofing systems in the Bay Area.
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Sure Roofing is a Diamond Certified, family-owned contractor serving San Francisco since 1982. The company specializes in torch-down and modified bitumen replacements as well as silicone coating upgrades, providing options tailored to each property's needs.