Flat roofing is incredibly popular for residential and commercial properties, particularly used on larger structures like outbuildings. Made from EPDM rubber and GRP, this kind of roofing is not as flat as its name suggests – it is sloped between ¼ and ½ inch per foot to drain water more efficiently.
If a flat roof specialist has been recommended for your home renovation, it is for good reason as a flat roof holds a lot of positives for your home’s future.
If you are considering a new roof for your home, let us tell you what the main advantages of a flat roof bring to your property to help you make an informed decision.
Types
First of all, there are three kinds of flat roofing – built-up roofing, rubber membrane and modified bitumen. Built-up was one of the most common flat roofing styles consisting of a bottom layer or two of insulation board and many intermediate asphalt or tar ones alternated with roofing felt, with a top layer of gravel.
The rubber membrane is a roof of synthetic rubber sheet material that is easy to recognise and either ballasted or weighted with large river stone, or glued down on the installation. Modified bitumen is more lightweight, DIY-friendly and easier to install without making a mess. It involves a single layer of adhesive roofing material installed via torch to melt the rear of the material to the base layer.
Pros
The biggest pro of a flat roof is that they are a very affordable option because the materials are composed of inexpensive items. Labour costs on these types of roofs are also lower because the installation is a lot less complicated to complete. Less complexity equals less money on time.
As they are simpler to install than more complex roofing systems, it also means that they are much simpler to repair should any fixes need to be done. This helps to keep any roofing repair costs lower as a result.
Unlike sloped roofs, flat roofs are more accessible – making it easier to inspect for leaks and damage. This also means that the space on your roof can be used in a multitude of ways that benefit your home. You could create a deck or garden on your property to entertain guests or hold parties, and even have room to install those solar panels that will help to make your home more energy efficient and appealing should you choose to sell it. Especially efficient because they have a membrane system applied on top of rigid sheets of insulation.
This roof space also allows for heating and air conditioning units to be installed, providing great space to keep them out of the way. Flat roofs are also a lot easier to keep clean because they are more accessible for you as a homeowner, meaning that you can easily keep mould, algae, stains and debris under control.
For roofing services in Manchester, contact the team at Pinnacle Roof and Build today – your go to roofing company Stockport.
