A flat roof is one that can come with controversy. As the name suggests, it is almost entirely completely level, other than a slight slope to allow for drainage.
Like all roofs, flat roofing comes with its advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to be aware of these before you make any decisions on the type of roofing you are going to install.
Benefits
Flat roofing materials are usually cheaper
No roofing material is particularly cheap. However, flat roofing is commonly less expensive than other types of materials which is great if you’re on a budget. Similarly, it is often found that labour is cheaper when finding someone to install your flat roofing. This is because there is less of a risk of the individual falling when installing the roof, compared to a sloped roof.
Flat roofs are low maintenance
Some roofing materials can be a bit of a hassle when it comes to maintenance. Of course, you have to maintain all roofs to a certain extent, but flat roofs are one of the most low-maintenance options on the market. It’s a lot easier to clean the gutters and make any repairs that need to be done.
You can make use of the space that a flat roof provides
Whether you’re converting your loft into a living space or you want a roof terrace, a flat roof allows you to make changes and extensions to your home. Therefore, if you’re conscious of the space you currently have and you’re looking to expand your property a bit, a flat roof might be right for you.
Potential drawbacks
Drainage is more difficult with flat roofing
While flat roofs are able to drain water, they are not anywhere near as efficient as other types of roofing. It’s common for water to create a pool on the roof which can eventually lead to leaks and potential damage to your property.
Some are prone to splitting and blistering
When you install a felt flat roof, it is likely that you will eventually experience some splitting or blistering of the material. This is a clear disadvantage as it means that you may need to pay more in repair costs in the long term. You may also have more issues with insuring your property because of the lack of endurance associated with flat roofing.
Flat roofs have a limited lifespan
While many roofing materials can last for over 50 years, this is not the case with flat roofing. In fact, it appears as though a flat roof typically only lasts for between 10 and 15 years. While it’s cheaper initially, it might be more stress in the long run when you have to install a new roof much sooner than you would with a different type of roof.
There are both advantages and disadvantages to flat roofing and whether you decide to opt for it will depend on your budget and property.
If you’re interested in finding the right roofing for you, contact us today.
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