Flat Roofs: Durable and Efficient in Urban Philly

Flat roofs are a popular option for rowhomes and commercial buildings in Center City, South Philly, and Fishtown. Here’s what you need to know:

• Typical Lifespan: 15–30 years (depending on materials like TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen)
• Best for: Compact city lots, rooftop decks, solar panels, and HVAC access
• Pros:
• Easy to install and maintain
• More usable space
• Modern look
• Cons:
• Prone to water pooling without proper drainage
• Shorter lifespan than pitched options
• Requires regular maintenance

With proper installation and regular inspections (which we provide here at Riley Roofing), flat roofs can serve homeowners well—especially in tightly packed Philly neighborhoods.

Shingle Roofs: Classic and Long-Lasting for Residential Homes

If you live in the Northeast, Roxborough, or the Main Line, chances are you have a shingle roof. Here’s why they’re a top pick:

• Typical Lifespan: 20–50 years (depending on the quality of asphalt shingles)
• Best for: Detached homes with sloped rooflines
• Pros:
• Affordable and widely available
• Better water runoff in heavy rain and snow
• Longer lifespan with premium shingles
• Cons:
• Can suffer wind damage during storms
• Not ideal for flat or low-pitch structures

At Riley Roofing, we use only high-quality architectural shingles that give our customers lasting value and strong curb appeal—key in Philadelphia’s competitive real estate market.

Which Roof Type Is Better for Philadelphia?

If you're in a dense urban area and space is at a premium, a flat roof makes sense. But if you're in the suburbs or have a traditional single-family home, shingles are a reliable, longer-lasting choice.

Ultimately, longevity comes down to:

• Installation quality
• Materials used
• Ongoing maintenance

That’s where we come in.

Trust Riley Roofing with Your Roofing Investment

Whether you’re replacing a flat roof in South Philly or upgrading your shingle roof in Chestnut Hill, Riley Roofing offers expert guidance, honest pricing, and top-tier workmanship. We’ve served Philadelphia homeowners for over a decade—and we’re just getting started.

Ready to talk roofing? Contact Riley Roofing today for a free inspection and quote.