Flat Roofing

Flat Roof Features and Design

Flat roofs are horizontal roofing with a very slight inclination (usually 10 degrees). Flat roofs can be made from a variety of different materials and substances, including Asphalt built up roof (BUR), modified bitumen, Hypalon, PVC, TPO and EPDM synthetic rubber. Flat roofs always have a base and a coating of some sort, all of which require inspection and maintenance on a regular basis. Flat roofs are a distinguishing feature of modern architecture. However, flat roofs are more suited to residential buildings rather than industrial or commercial, as a flat roof will become gradually unstable as its size increases, and also exceedingly expensive. Roof 101 provides all possible repairs, maintenance and replacement services for both residential and commercial flat roofs.

Maintenance and Assessment of Flat Roofs

The life expectancy of a flat roof is relative to the amount of maintenance it receives. However, this can be influenced by the kind of material your flat roof is made of. All flat roofs should receive an inspection at least once a year, and should tend to the following more important aspects;

• Keeping roof drains clean and debris free, so that clogging won’t prevent water from being drained, causing an overload of weight.
• Preservation of roof coating, which prevents degradation by the sun and provides a water-tight membrane. This is especially important if you have a concrete flat roof.
• Prevention of water leakage. Approximately 90% of all flat roof leaks are caused by insufficient maintenance of flashings.

If you are unsure as to whether or not your flat roof is in need of repair or even replacement, a Roof 101 representative is always able to advise you on the right course of action.

The Pros and Cons of Owning a Flat Roof

Advantages:

• Flat roof construction is significantly cheaper than that of sloped roofs.
• When inspecting a flat roof, there is less chance of falling.
• Flat roofs are more easily accessible.

Disadvantages:

• Flat roof coatings are not long-lasting.
• Consistent maintenance is required, and replacement of a flat roof is both difficult and costly.
• Flat roof construction is not suitable to all kinds of buildings.