Is Flat Roofing the Right Choice for Your Home?
Of all the various types of roofs for homes and other buildings, flat roofing is one of the most controversial. Flat roofs are commonly used on outbuildings and large structures, and each roof has its own challenges and needs. So, in order to determine if a flat roof is the right choice for your home, you need to be aware of both the advantages and disadvantages.
The Advantages of Flat Roofing
One of the most significant advantages offered with flat roofing is the cost. From the initial build and installation to the roofing materials commonly used, a flat roof is a relatively cheap option. Many materials used in the installation of a flat roof are very inexpensive, which makes it affordable for both installation and upkeep.
Another advantage of installing a flat roof is that you can make use of the roof space. You can plant a rooftop garden, create a living roof, or install solar panels. This can add valuable space to your property, particularly where outside space is limited.
In addition to being a more flexible exterior, flat roofing allows you to have a more versatile interior space. Without the sloping walls produced by a traditional pitched roof, you can create a finished attic or larger top apartment space. This is a fantastic option in a home where interior space needs to be maximised.
A flat roof also allows greater accessibility compared to a traditional sloped roof. This makes performing repairs, cleaning gutters or even installing solar panels or satellite dishes easier and less costly.
The Disadvantages of Flat Roofing
While flat roofing offers some fantastic advantages, you should also be aware that there are some potential disadvantages. The biggest potential drawback is a lack of drainage. Although a flat roof will drain, they are not as efficient for draining compared to any type of pitched roof. This means that water does have a tendency to pool and remain on the roof. This can eventually lead to leaks or materials breaking down, particular along any seams.
Another potential disadvantage is that there is a lack of options for roofing materials. Most flat roof installations use rolled roofing materials such as EPDM, rubber, bitumen or TPO. While these materials are relatively inexpensive, most have a lifespan limited to between ten and fifteen years. Rubber shingles can be installed with rolled rubber roofing to increase lifespan, and there are other new materials including PVC or polycarbonate roofing that can provide style options and can make the roof last longer.
However, these materials tend to be more costly, and due to the lack of history, it is difficult to predict the lifespan you can expect.
Is a Flat Roof Right For Your Property?
Flat roofing may not be the most stylish roof choice, but it does offer some unique advantages. If you’re still unsure whether a flat roof is the right choice for your property, you should speak to a reputable roofer. Our recommended roofing professionals would be delighted to assess your property and help you determine if a flat roof would be the right option for your property.
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Recent Reviews About The Roofers
Michael was there when I needed my roof fixed, he came round in short notice gave me a price and was there fixing the leak whilst I was sleeping after my nightshift, when I awoke the job was done, I hope Michael will be there for me again if I need him in the future. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family. He is a good and reliable honest tradesman.
Steve
Cannot fault the work done on the roof. The men who carried out our roof repair and maintenance did so to a very high standard.
Neil Mousley
Warren did a super job for me, sorting out my broken tile and gutters quickly and without fuss. Wouldn't hesitate to use again, thank you.
Lesley R
Warren responded very quickly, was able to come the same day to take a look at and eventually repair a leaky roof. Very knowledgable and professional. And the leak is fixed!
Diane
Paul Williams got in touch when he said he would, gave the quote and did the job within reasonable time, somewhat set back by the weather. He was very easy to deal with and responded immediately to my emails. Full marks for that! I will use him again if I have a problem.
Hedli Tanner
Thoroughly recommend Paul. Contacted Paul after another roofer left us with a leaking flat roof and was unable to resolve the issue. Paul replaced the flat roof and no more leak. Would definitely use him again
Jennifer Simmonds
5 tiles replaced and gutter work including facias and gutter cleaning. Michael from MK maintenance carried out some work on my mum’s house done a great job and would highly recommend very clean and tidy and we would definitely use for further work and to recommend to family and friends thanks.
Michael Lorefice
Mike did a great job cleaned up well after and disposed of all the rubbish. Will use again and would recommend him to anyone.
Mark
We had worked carried out last year that was excellent by Micheal. He was very polite, tidy and reliable. Had a small problem and he came straight out and corrected it. Would definitely recommend.
Rosie
Michael was quick to investigate and identify the source of my leak and resolved the issue promptly for a very fair price. He was really easy to talk to and I'd highly recommend him to others looking to get roofing work completed!
Alex
RFR made the time to come out and inspect the bay roof which had leaked in the previous night following a heavy storm. He explained that it needed a repair not a replacement and set to work straight away. They explained very clearly what needed doing and the the cost involved, which was very reasonable. We were very relieved to say the least, having assumed the roof might need a very costly replacement. We would have been none the wiser had someone confirmed our worse fears. RFR were very honest and helpful and even troubled to advise us on how to make good the damage to the inside decoration. We would not hesitate to use RFR again and can recommend him without reservation.
Andrew
Saved me from a real emergency. Great care from start to finish. Would highly recommend.
Hana Ellis
Paul and his team did a first class job after we had been let down by other people. Someone who turns up and does what he says he’ll do. I have no hesitation in recommending this company for any roof repairs.
Tony Slatter
Michael is very knowledgeable and his advice was invaluable in deciding the best option to repair my ridge tiles on my roof. His quote was very competitive and the standard of his work was very high, moreover he ensured that any mess was tidied up and taken away for disposal. I have not hesitation in recomending MK Maintenance.
Raymond Tully
Good service kept us informed from start to finish roofers on time and polite
Kenneth Swan
Excellent roofer
Mary
Warren was so professional and helpful. Warren put right our guttering that was done so poorly by a different company. We are extremely happy with the service and wouldn't hesitate to employ him again for future roofing work. Thank you.
Mrs sharon m Brown
Paul Williams responded immediately and visited to survey the job and explained what was required - very friendly chap. A week later I received a quote. My inclination is to take up Paul’s quote but I am ‘still’ waiting for other quotes from other companies before committing myself.
Ray Pinner
Called on Monday afternoon, Toby came out the next morning and my roof leak was sorted in the afternoon by Mark and Shaun, Thankyou guys for such great service and the price was good too.
Ashley Davis
Michael did a fantastic job repairing my roof and replacing guttering. Friendly, reliable and advised me on any further work that needed to be done. He will be coming back to repair my chimney. He also worked neatly and cleaned up any debris from the work. Would absolutely recommend Michael to friends and colleagues.
Suzanne
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