There are a number of benefits to having a flat Roof. For one, they’re cheaper to build and maintain than sloped roofs. They also offer a sleek, modern look that can make your home or business stand out in the crowd. Here are some other reasons to consider a flat roof:
1. Easy Access
The ability to walk on your flat roof without the risk of falling is a great benefit for any home or business owner. Not only will this make it easier for your roof repairman to carry out routine inspections, but it will also allow you to access your solar panels or satellite dishes if you need to.
The only downside is that because a flat roof has only a small slope, this can easily lead to water puddles which will remain on the surface. This can cause damage to your roof over time if not dealt with immediately.
You can avoid this by having your roof designed with a slight slope. This will ensure the rainwater drains away quickly. This will prevent the build-up of puddles on your roof and help to maintain its integrity.
2. Aesthetics
Flat roofs offer unique designs that can add to a building’s style and blend it into its surrounding landscape. They are also more affordable to build, require less maintenance and are less prone to leaks than sloped roofs.
However, because they collect water in puddles rather than shedding it off the surface, they may become problematic in rainy climates. This is because the accumulated water can damage the underlying roof decking, eventually causing cracks in the drywall and ceilings.
Another problem is that a flat roof tends to over-absorb heat, since it’s exposed to the sun all day long. The best solution is to use a reflective coating on the roof to help mitigate this issue. This is an easy and affordable way to boost your flat roof’s lifespan.
3. Ease of Maintenance
Flat roofs are much easier to inspect, maintain and repair than pitched ones. As such, the cost for these services is typically less.
Unlike a pitched roof, a flat roof has only a small slope that allows water to drain away. This means that standing water can easily occur on a flat roof. If left unchecked this can lead to leaks.
The good news is that most modern flat roofs are made with durable materials that are resistant to the effects of rain, sun and heat. This will help them last longer and require less maintenance. As a result, they may also be more affordable to maintain in the long run. This can make a flat roof a great choice for a home owner or business owner looking to save money.
4. Energy Efficiency
Many flat roofs can be coated with reflective materials that improve energy efficiency. This can be a great option for those in warmer climates who want to keep their utility bills low. Some people are also going green on their flat roofs and growing gardens there.
Although flat roofs have a bad reputation for leaking, it can be avoided with good design and quality workmanship. Regular inspections and maintenance will ensure that it is well-insulated and water-tight, especially if you choose the right roof coating system. In addition, the space on top can be used for a number of things, such as a relaxation area or rooftop garden. This is a great advantage for homeowners who are short on outdoor space and have narrow lots.
5. Durability
Modern flat roofs are designed using high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. These include EPDM rubber, PVC and modified bitumen membranes. They can also be made to look aesthetically appealing with a range of surface finishing options.
Another great advantage of a flat roof is that it gives you extra space to use as you wish. This space can be turned into a rooftop garden (known as green roofs), bbq area, relaxation zone or even an outdoor living room.
This means that you can enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the temperature, rainfall or snowfall. Moreover, you can easily walk around on your flat roof without having to wear protective clothing or safety equipment. This is especially useful for those with a fear of heights.
