Flat Roofing for Commercial and Residential Buildings
Flat roofing defined
In contrast to sloped roofs, it is easy to understand what flat roofing is. In roofs, slopes are termed as “pitch.” Flat roofs are not totally flat. They are instead described as low-pitched roofs.
Flat roofing is more commonly seen on commercial buildings though modern architecture paved the way for residential homes to choose flat roofs as they look more elegant and sophisticated.
Flat roofs vary in material and look. Let us discover more about the types and functionality of flat roofs according to types.
Is flat roofing design the best for your property?
Choosing roof design is not a simple decision. When you make changes in a certain property involve additional expenses unless you are keen to invest in your new venture and have your place possess a new look.
Flat roofs, similar to pitch roofs, have pros and cons. It is essential to know the advantages and disadvantages of using flat roofs, the types, and costs before deciding to replace the whole thing.
The pros and cons of flat roofing design
Easy to maintain—Flat roofs are perfect for stargazers. If you are fond of staying outside to look at starry night or the pale moonlight, the flat roof can be your best hangout. Obviously, with flat roofs, you can walk over the entire plane without the fear of falling. It is dangerous to walk on sloped roofs in fear of accidents and falls. More importantly, while these roofs are flat, they are easier to clean. Such convenience will also help you to spot roofing issues and have a professional roofer to fix them.
More economical—Basically, all types of flat roofs are cheaper than the materials used in slope roofs. But this doesn’t mean they are less durable. In fact, flat roofing can stand for 20 to 50 years, depending on the type of material you choose. Imagine the complexity in working with sloped roofs where every tile has to be appropriately placed. Besides, roofing contractors work in a smaller area. Roofers spent shorter days to work on flat roofs and needed fewer tools to finish the job.
Stylish—Homes and buildings with flat roofs look more compact but spacious on the top. The added appeal flat roofs bring the visual aesthetic to your property. Flat roofs can also serve as rooftop gardens. Homeowners who love gardening can transform a landscape out of their flat roofs. Plants and bushes regulate the heat that enters the roof and provides cooler temperature inside the home or building.
Flat roofing design also has its share of disadvantages
Doesn’t drain the way slope roofs do—Flat roofs are not as efficient as pitched roofs when it comes to the shedding of rainwater. In the time of heavy rainfall, flat roofs tend to collect water and prevent the water from draining too soon. When they are laid, roofers install slopes at each end to prevent rainwater from clogging. During heavy rains, drain pipes are jammed. Clogging and excessive water accumulation may cause a leak in the ceiling. If the water seeps, moisture will destroy the ceilings, paints, and walls that will lead to further damage in the house or building.
Requires more maintenance—Based on the future damage from above, a considerable amount of time and money is needed for roof maintenance. Firstly, this is to check the credibility of the flat roof layers. Secondly, roofers will fix broken downspouts and drainage, and will even have more work to do in terms of the inner roof damage. Expert roofers from Roofers Birmingham will suggest a drainage system that will protect your home, and periodical inspection to check leaks, blistering, cracks, and puncture brought by natural disasters.
Flat Roof Materials
As both residential and commercial building owners are delighted in the roofing design of flat roofs, the facts below are necessary to list down to ensure that you are choosing the correct roof material for your property.
- Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)–EPDM is made of synthetic rubber that can stand for up to 30 years. It won’t easily split or crack and is highly affordable. The EPDM is a single-ply membrane roof material, but it’s suitable for reflecting UV rays for a considerable amount of time. Since it is made of rubber from recycled materials, it is energy efficient which can lower your consumption of air conditioners. Cons include the single ply is susceptible to punctures from hard objects. And since it is thinner, in time, its endurance against the heat will fail.
- Built-up roof membrane (BUR)–To form a watertight layer, BUR uses gravel and tar, leaving a thick coverage or thick roof deck. Though the BUR has high resistance to damage, it’s difficult for roofers to detect where the leak could be. The BUR roof type is the cheapest flat roof material, but the labor involved in the installation is more costly. Furthermore, while BUR is made of tar, gravel, coal, etc., installation takes a while, and these materials are health hazards when inhaled. BUR roofs are heavy and are prone to damage from cold temperatures.
- Thermo plastic membrane (TPO)–Another energy-efficient roof material maybe because of its white-colored surface. Upon installation, TPOs are welded securely using heat, so they are more durable to tear or separation. TPOs are available in 2-ply membranes. They could stand heat and rain for up to 20 years.
If you’re undecided which flat roof material to use, our team of licensed roofers will let you know what’s best for your property. We ensure your flat roof installation will be done according to your preference, and we won’t leave your premise half undone.
Start your roofing contract with us by visiting our website at https.//bmroofers.co.uk.
