What Is A Flat Roof And Its Advantages?
Flat Roofs Are Common These Days On Commercial Properties With Flat And Low Slope Roofs. But What Are They And Are There Advantages To It. We Discuss This In Detail Here.
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Flat Roof Overview
As the term suggests, a flat roof is built to be almost level compared to sloped and pitched roofs. Flat roofs are amongst the oldest types of roofing commonly used in arid climates, which allows for the roof space to be used as a makeshift living space or what’s referred to as a living roof.
Flat roofs are also referred to as low-slope roofs, mainly atop commercial buildings. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, a low slope roof has a 1:4.
While flat roofing is associated with commercial roofs, they exist worldwide; each area has its own set of traditions or preferred materials when it comes to the flat roof system. Generally, a flat roof is built from masonry or a few layers of concrete in places with less rainfall and where it does not freeze over. This approach works perfectly to keep the sun’s heat out, and it is relatively cheap to build, especially if timber isn’t readily available. This makes it one of the most versatile roofing systems.
In contrast, areas where it can rain, and the roof is prone to leaking, or where water soaks into the home or possibly freezes to ice, leading to blowing flat rooms, are a bad choice. That’s why flat roofs are mostly found where it is hot, and temperatures don’t go below freezing.
Like everything else, there are advantages and disadvantages of the flat roofing system, but for the most part, we’ll examine the advantages in this article.
Benefits of Flat Roofs
There are various benefits of a flat roof, some of which we discussed earlier. In this section, we’ll examine the most significant flat roof advantages.
Flat Roofs are Affordable
One of the most appealing aspects of a flat roof is the fact that it is comparatively cheap. Usually, when you are dealing with a sloped roof, not only is there are membranes involved to keep out the elements, but you also need to install shingles along with other materials to protect the building. If anything, the costs of a pitched roof can add up. However, a flat roof does not require as much material, thus lowering the associated cost. Plus, installing them does not take very long, so there isn’t much in the way of labor costs when dealing with flat roofing systems.
Plus, flat roofs cost less to maintain and recoat compared to replacing shingles on a pitched roof. This ensures that a flat roof can save you money in the long term if you want a cost-effective roofing option.
Flat Roofs Are Modern And Contemporary
Now how good your home looks is essential, and some may argue it is as important as protecting it. That’s why many homeowners spend a small fortune on maintaining their property, but a worn-out-looking roof can ruin its curb appeal.
One of the best ways to give your home a more modern look is with a flat roof. Flat roofs provide a house with this clean and sleek look. Plus, they can help make your home stand out from all the others.
The problem with sloped roofs is that asphalt shingles no longer look contemporary or modern. So, a flat roof isn’t just going to be a unique addition but add a dash of sophistication to your home’s design. The key is ensuring that there is proper drainage in place which prevents water from stagnating.
You Get Extra Space Compared To Sloped Roofs
How much space do you have on top? We can bet that it isn’t much since you can never use it with a sloped roof. But there is a lot of space you can use if you have a flat roof. That extra space can be used for everything from installing solar panels to entertaining guests.
A roof deck can also allow you to add something luxurious, mainly if your home is located in some beautiful place. That said, nothing is stopping you from turning your rooftop into a relaxing oasis that gives you that rare opportunity to get away from all the stresses of the day.
Flat Roofs Are Easy to Access
Apart from creating a peaceful retreat within your home, it is also easier to access a flat roof. As mentioned earlier, you can utilize the space in more ways than one. Plus, it is easy to go on top of the roof, which makes inspecting it for damage and wear easier. Most people will find that cleaning it is also a lot easier.
Sloped roofs are way harder to climb and can be potentially dangerous. A wrong step means that you will slip and fall from the roof. This can then lead to bodily harm.
Durability
It is worth pointing out that no roof can ever be resistant to damage. Some natural disasters can be brutal, and a wide range of weather conditions means that your roof is consistently being battered all year round. However, flat roofs can take the most beating.
Flat roofs can withstand strong winds, and since there are no shingles involved, you don’t have to worry about them being torn off by the wind. Not to mention that a few missing shingles will mean that the whole roof needs to be replaced. Fortunately, this isn’t a problem you need to worry about with a flat roof. However, you need to be extra careful if you have a rooftop garden or a rooftop deck.
Choosing The Right Flat Roof
If you are considering a flat roof, pick the right one because there is more than one type. Ideally, you will want one that protects your home and look good doing it.
Most roofing professionals can help you decide on the right roof type. Professionals will often consider the size of the home, the local climate, and your budget when suggesting one.
We Service The Entire Denver Metro Area And Beyond
Maxx Roof LLC serves the Denver metro area and the surrounding areas. Some of the cities we serve are Denver, Lakewood, Castle Rock, Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Broomfield, Littleton, Englewood, Centennial, Parker, Thornton, Wheat Ridge, Golden, Morrison, Brighton, Commerce City, Watkins, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Edgewater & beyond.
If your home or commercial property is located anywhere throughout the greater Denver metro area, give us a call for a free inspection & estimate. When you choose to work with Maxx Roof LLC, your are choosing to work with a roofing contractor you can count on, every step of the way.
