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The original question here asked about construction methods for "flat" roofs. Fact is, there really isn't such a thing as a truly flat roof in the real world -- at least not on a building constructed by a competent builder. A "flat" roof eventually would settle in spots, resulting in the ponding of water, which would sooner or later destroy the roof. So-called "flat" roofs are designed and built to channel rainwater or snowmelt to drains. Those drains may be in the form of gutters (along the entire "low" side of the roof); to scuppers located at points along the perimeter of the roof; or to interior drains, located away from the roof perimeter. In any event, the "flat" roof will be slightly, and possibly complexly, pitched toward the drains. Most flat roofs are covered with layers of felt, which are adhered with hot bitumen (tar). Interestingly, these roofs are known in the construction trades as "built-up" roofs -- which refers to the application of the felts in layers. The top layer of felts may be covered with gravel ballast. This is an optional practice, and may be done for the most part to resist the uplift of wind over the structure. It isn't uncommon to see "tarred" roofs right alongside buildings with "ballasted" roofs. Builders' or designers' choice, but the larger the roof surface, the more likely it is to be covered with ballast. A properly pitched "flat" roof on a model is unsusual to see. But when it's there, it conveys the same subtle but powerful sense of realism you get with a properly drained model railroad right-of-way.
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