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
Friendly and helpful. Kept to appointment arranged. Quoted for work required. Seems very reasonable.
Clarke
Warren was very helpful, knowledgeable and efficient in helping with my roof problem . He arrived same day and was a very reasonable price. Can highly recommend!
Gary Rampton
Paul and his team did an excellent job on our roof repairing storm damage and fitting dry ridge and verge systems. He is very knowledgeable and uses top quality materials. He is also friendly and polite. I would have no hesitation in recommending him to friends and family.
Andrew S.
Mark did a great job and handled everything professionally- wasn’t the cheapest but price was reasonable . A proper quote rather than a verbal estimate. Will definitely definitely use him again.
Michael Lee
I made contact with Ashley after suffering roof damage during the recent storms. I was asked to send a photo of the damage and he responded with an estimate, which I accepted. Within two days he came as promised and made a very good repair to damaged roof tiles. My neighbours all agree that his work looks excellent.
David Rivett
Fantastic service, we had an emergency that although couldn’t be fully resolved immediately, they made sure it was watertight in the meantime. Now the job is finished and I am so pleased. Would recommend these experienced knowledgeable and nice guys to any one for their services. Thanks!
Emmy Callaghan
The service from Mark was first class. We received a quote for the repair work required as a result of storm Eunice the same day I requested his roofing repair service. He visited and completed the necessary work the next day.
David Funge
100% happy . Mark and Ashley were excellent very fast responding to our call after storm Eunice . They have high standards of workmanship are trustworthy and friendly deserve all praise given. Will be our chosen business for any future work.
David Hodgkin
We phoned Micheal on a Friday evening, he come out Saturday Morning at 9.30, we had a few roof tiles slip, he did the work, to a high standard, he even removed some moss what was sitting on the top guttering, which could of caused another problem, Michael is a Calm , easy to talk to man, who listens , he also tells you , what the problem is , how his going to fix it, and a very reasonable price. I will definitely recommend him to anyone. His already done my neighbours slipped tiles.
Mandy Walsh
Good efficient service but at a price!
Robin Hind
Paul is a really nice guy. He gave a sensible quote for the job and stuck to it. He carried out the work on the day and time that he'd promised. Everything quoted for was carried out to the letter and the site was left clean and tidy.
Paul Adams
Very prompt and quick service. All work carried out as per quote within a few days. Would recommend.
Beverley Sinden
Excellent service
Trevor
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
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