When you are looking for a quick, cost-effective roofing solution for a low-slope structure, roll roofing often comes up as a primary option. Also known as MSR (mineral-surfaced roll), this material is essentially a thinner, wider version of the asphalt shingles you see on most homes across Denton County. It is sold in long rolls and applied in wide strips, making it a popular choice for outbuildings and utility structures.
While it offers distinct advantages in terms of price and ease of installation, it is not a "one-size-fits-all" solution. In the harsh North Texas climate, where our roofs face triple-digit heat and sudden hail storms, understanding the limitations of this material is just as important as knowing its benefits. At DKG Roofing, we believe in giving you the straight facts so you can make the best decision for your property.
What is Roll Roofing?
Roll roofing is an asphalt-based product manufactured in rolls that typically cover about 100 square feet. It is composed of an organic felt or fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules. It is very similar in composition to asphalt shingles, but it lacks the thickness and multi-layered protection that shingles provide.
Because it is thin and flexible, it is specifically designed for roofs with a low pitch. If your roof has a slope lower than a 2:12 pitch (meaning it rises less than two inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run), standard shingles cannot be used because they won't shed water fast enough. Roll roofing, when installed correctly with overlapped seams, provides a more continuous barrier against standing water than individual shingles.
Ideal Applications for MSR Roofing
We generally do not recommend roll roofing for the main roof of a home. It lacks the curb appeal and the longevity required for a primary residence. However, it is an excellent material for secondary structures where the main goal is functional protection rather than long-term architectural beauty.
In the DFW Metroplex, we often see roll roofing used on patio covers or "lean-to" additions. These areas frequently have very flat slopes that don't allow for proper drainage with traditional shingle tabs. In these cases, a rolled product is a practical way to keep the area dry without the high cost of a commercial-grade TPO or EPDM membrane.
- Detached garages and carports.
- Garden sheds and tool sheds.
- Workshops or barns.
- Covered porches and patios.
- Temporary structures or emergency coverings after storm damage.
Pros and Cons of the Material
The primary draw of roll roofing is the price point. If you are on a tight budget or working on a DIY project for a backyard shed, it is hard to beat the value. However, you must consider the trade-offs. The most significant downside is the lifespan. While a high-quality new roof installation using shingles can last 30 years, roll roofing usually needs replacement within 5 to 10 years.
In North Texas, our extreme UV exposure is particularly hard on roll roofing. The heat causes the material to dry out and crack faster than thicker products. Additionally, its thin profile offers very little resistance to the large hail we frequently see in Denton County. A significant hail event that might only cause minor cosmetic damage to shingles can easily puncture or tear a roll roof.
- Affordability: It is the least expensive roofing material on the market per square foot.
- Speed of Installation: A small shed or garage can often be covered in just a few hours.
- Lightweight: It puts very little stress on the structural components of the building.
- Availability: It is widely available and easy to transport to the job site.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Proper installation is critical to prevent leaks at the seams. Roll roofing is typically applied using the "lap" method, where each row overlaps the one below it by several inches. These seams are then sealed with roofing cement or specialized adhesive. Because the seams are the most vulnerable point, they must be checked regularly for signs of lifting or Chapman.
As a veteran-owned business serving North Texas, we’ve seen how neglected roll roofing can lead to deck rot. Because the material is so thin, once a leak starts, it reaches the wood underneath almost immediately. We recommend an annual roof inspection to ensure the adhesive is still holding and that the granules haven't washed away, which would leave the asphalt core exposed to the sun.