Location: Brooklyn, NY
Renovations: Flat Roof Replacement; Skylight Leak Remediation
When we arrived at this Bedford-Stuyvesant brownstone, the homeowner was dealing with serious roofing issues common to many historic Brooklyn properties. The flat roof had poor pitch, causing severe ponding after every rainfall. Water never reached the scupper drain as intended, leaving large puddles that weakened the roof membrane and threatened the structure.
The skylight was also leaking due to failed flashing and improper sealing, leading to visible interior water stains. Between the standing water and water infiltration around penetrations, the roof required a complete replacement to restore protection and function.
These issues are no strangers to the roofing contractors at Big Apple Renovators. Our team has years of experience repairing water damage and installing durable flat roof solutions to protect historic homes in Brooklyn.
During the consultation, we walked the homeowner through every option in detail. While other contractors had suggested silicone coatings as a fast solution, we explained that this would only mask the underlying drainage issues. Others proposed a layover, but with several existing layers already in place, that would have violated New York City building code and added unnecessary weight to the structure.
We recommended a full roof replacement using a Polyglass SBS 2-ply modified bitumen system installed over mechanically fastened PolyISO insulation. This approach created a tapered design to guide water toward the scupper drain, eliminated pooling, and improved energy efficiency. By focusing on education and transparency, we helped the homeowner make a confident, informed decision.
The homeowner chose us for our expertise, transparency, and clear communication. We explained why quick fixes weren’t viable and outlined how a complete replacement would deliver long-term results. Our strong local reputation, verified reviews, and manufacturer-backed warranty provided confidence their investment was protected.
For this brownstone project, our team:
One of the biggest challenges of this project was the sheer number of existing roof layers left behind by past contractors. Removing fourteen layers required significant planning and labor to safely strip the roof down to a stable substrate. Once complete, our crew created a clean, compliant surface for the new system—ensuring the roof would meet modern standards for weight, performance, and durability.
The finished roof drains efficiently, seals fully, and enhances energy performance. The homeowner praised our professionalism, communication, and attention to detail—and, most of all, their renewed peace of mind knowing the roof was rebuilt the right way.
Flat roofs on historic Brooklyn buildings require specialized expertise. If your property shows signs of ponding or leaks, contact Big Apple Renovators for a quote on code-compliant, long-term roofing solutions built for New York’s climate.
