If you’re looking to maximise the amount of usable space in your house, a flat roof is an excellent choice.
What’s more:
A flat roof allows for easy installation of a rooftop garden and solar panels.
However, selecting the right flat roofing material is crucial, as it plays a significant role in the roof’s longevity and durability.
To make it easier for you to make an informed purchasing decision, at Good Build Superstore we took a deep dive into the various advantages and disadvantages of various flat roofing types.
Here’s what our flat roof design guide is going to cover.
Table of contents:
- Types of flat roofing
- Advantages and disadvantages of flat roofing
- What should I consider when choosing a flat roofing material?
- Choosing the right flat roof for your home
Types of flat roofing
Flat roofs come in a wide variety of styles and materials, making them a highly convenient solution that can be tailored to the engaged homeowner’s preference.
Here are the main types.
Built-up roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing is a traditional flat roofing method that has been in use for over a century. It consists of alternating layers of asphalt and roofing felt, with the top layer usually being covered with gravel or other similar material.
The primary advantages of BUR roofing are its durability and weather resistance, as well as its ability to withstand foot traffic. However, the process of installing BUR roofing is labour-intensive and requires skilled professionals.
Modified bitumen roofing
Modified bitumen roofing, also known as torch-down roofing, is an evolution of BUR roofing. It’s created by applying prefabricated rolls of asphalt with added rubber and plasticisers (chemical additives which make plastics or rubbers softer and more flexible) to the roof surface with the use of a torch.
Modified bitumen roofing is durable, weather-resistant and easy to repair. However, the use of a torch can be dangerous, so it’s a good idea to hire a professional to install it.
PVC roofing
PVC roofing is a single-ply roofing system that uses a plastic membrane. It’s an increasingly popular choice in recent years due to its flexibility, durability, and energy efficiency.
What’s more:
It’s resistant to fire, chemicals and UV rays, making it a good choice for commercial buildings. PVC roofing is also easy to maintain and repair, and it can be installed over existing roofing.
TPO roofing
TPO roofing, or thermoplastic olefin, is another single-ply roofing system that is growing in popularity due to its energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It’s made from a synthetic rubber compound that is designed to be lightweight, durable and resistant to UV rays.
TPO roofing is easy to install and maintain, but it may not be suitable for all weather conditions.
EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing is a single-ply roofing system that uses a synthetic rubber membrane. It’s known for its durability, flexibility and resistance to UV rays and weather. EPDM roofing is also easy to repair, making it a cost-effective choice for flat roofs.
However, it may not be suitable for roofs with high foot traffic, as it can be punctured easily.
Now that we know what the main types of flat roofing are, we’re going to zoom in on their pros and cons.
Advantages and disadvantages of flat roofing
Flat roofing has several advantages over traditional pitched roofing, including more usable space and easy installation.
Let’s take a closer look at each one.
More usable space ✅
A flat roof provides additional space that you can use for storage or outdoor living areas, making it an excellent choice for commercial buildings or homes with limited outdoor space. If you’re dying to create your very own luxurious version of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, a flat roof is the way to go!
Easy installation ✅
Flat roofs are relatively easy to install, with many roofing systems that can be installed in a single day by a seasoned DIYer.
Cost-effective ✅
Flat roofing can be a cost-effective choice for the homeowner, with many roofing systems costing less than traditional pitched roofing.
However, flat roofing also has some disadvantages that homeowners should consider, including:
Drainage issues 🛑
Flat roofs require proper drainage to prevent water from pooling, which can lead to leaks and other issues.
Limited insulation 🛑
Flat roofs can be difficult to insulate, leading to higher energy costs in some climates.
Maintenance 🛑
This isn’t a disadvantage per se, but it’s still something you need to bear in mind.
The thing is:
Flat roofs require regular maintenance to prevent damage from weather, UV rays and other factors.
What should I consider when choosing a flat roofing material?
When choosing the right flat roofing material, there are several important things to consider.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Durability
Flat roofing materials need to withstand harsh weather conditions and exposure to UV rays. So, it’s important to choose a material that has a long lifespan and requires minimal maintenance.
Water resistance
Flat roofing materials should be waterproof or at least water-resistant to prevent leaks and water damage to your home. Look for materials that are designed to provide reliable waterproofing and can withstand standing water.
Energy efficiency
A flat roof can be an energy-efficient feature of a home, but only if the right material is chosen. Reflective materials, for example, can help to reflect the sun’s rays and keep your home cooler, which can reduce the need for air conditioning and lower energy bills.
Cost
The cost of the material and installation is an important factor to keep in mind.
The thing is:
Some materials are more expensive than others, and others may require more frequent maintenance or replacement, which can add to the cost in the long run.
Appearance
The appearance of the roof is also an important consideration, especially for highly visible homes. Flat roofing materials come in a range of colours and styles, so it’s important to choose a material that complements your home’s overall aesthetic.
Local building codes
It’s important to ensure that the chosen flat roofing material complies with local building codes and regulations. Some materials may not be permitted in certain areas, so make sure you check with your local authority before you make a final decision.
Installation
Finally, it’s a good idea to opt for a flat roofing material that is easy to install and can be done by a professional roofing contractor. Some materials require specialized equipment and expertise to install, which can add to the overall cost of the project.
Choosing the right flat roof for your home
Now that you know what to look for when buying flat roofing, you’re well prepared to consideration make an informed decision about which flat roofing material is right for your home.
The bottom line is:
Do your research, consult our flat roof design guide and carefully consider all options to ensure the chosen material provides the necessary durability, water resistance, energy efficiency and appearance for your property.
This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your flat roof and its multiple benefits for many years to come.