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.
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.
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.
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.
Paul and his team did an amazing job for us , complete new roof , fascia’s soffits and gutting all replaced , chimney pointed and capped , cladding to dorma window and replaced velux window . All at a very reasonable price .
Rachel Banks
Roof all done the guys did an excellent job we are really happy would highly recommend thank you Steve and all your guys.
Paul & Denise
Outstanding service from Ben. He kept in touch, provided a competitive quote, arrived when he promised, carried out the work and kept me updated on progress, finished the job to a high standard and all in a friendly and professional way. I would not hesitate to call on his services again when my other tiled roofing repairs are needed. Highly recommended.
Neil Jones
Full roof re-tile done. Agreed a great price, work was started within 2 weeks. The driveway was swept spotlessly clean each day. The new tiles look great. There were a couple of areas of the fascia that had come away with the vibrations of the work and they even came back once the job was finished to correct those little areas to make sure that we were 100% happy with the job. I'd recommend Trevor and his team to anybody. He gave good advice and explained the details of the job to us every step of the way.
Paul
A big thank you to Trevor and his crew, for a good job. Very friendly and polite and always cleaned up after themselves. I would recommend Northern Roofing. Thank you once again.
Andrew
Thoroughly recommend this company. Our roof was in a real state (300 year old barn.). Fair price and they kept to it. Always tidy and courteous. Completed in half the time we expected.
Tony
Trevor and his team were efficient and reliable and communication was excellent at every stage of the job. Nothing was too much trouble- for instance, Trevor sourced Welsh green slates to replace damaged slates which matched the existing ones perfectly. Mick and Dean worked really hard and we are really pleased with the final result.
Andy
The job was completed quickly and as specified. New roof tiles, felting and new gutters. The price was competitive too.
Mark
Would definitely recommend - Trevor answered all my questions I had - the team worked very quickly and effectively. Love my new roof!
Leila
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