Flat Roofs – Your Options
Older methods of installation and shoddy workmanship can cause leaks that wind up costing you a lot of money in repair bills and replacement costs, but the new methods of flat roofing have improved greatly. The latest advancements in flat roofs have led to stronger and longer lasting results. Many of these roofs last up to sixty years.
A good flat roof can make your property look modern and nice. It also offers the added bonus of being able to be turned into an outdoor living area. A flat roof can be turned into a balcony, deck, or even a place to have a beautiful garden, while making the most of the space underneath it.
Positives
- Less expensive than roofs that are pitched
- Great use of space
- Stylish and up to date look
- Extra bonus of added outdoor living space
- Will last a long time thanks to new methods
Negatives
- Need to do maintenance to it regularly
- Can leak if not installed right
- Might look ugly next to a pitched roof
- Cheaper methods will not last long
Asphalt Roofs
One classic flat roofing option is asphalt. This method involves putting down tar that will help cause a long lifespan. Asphalt is a good choice for many people since it is durable and versatile. Its popularity has gone down since new techniques have appeared that do not require so much labor or cause possible harm to the installer due to high temperatures. Skilled installers are becoming scarce as less people are using this option.
Positives
- Seamless design and hardwearing
- Waterproof
- Lasts up to sixty years
- Can be put on any shape of roof
- recyclable
Negatives
- Needs high temperatures for installation
- Very intense and hard installation process
- Heavy
- Not many people use it anymore
- Hard to find installers
Felt Roofs
Another classic flat roof option where composite felts are asphalt sealed. These roofs are affordable, but will not last as long as other options. The worst negative to this type of roofing is that the seams can be damaged by the weather and water erosion.
Positives
- Affordable
- Widely available
- Can hold up to a lot of foot traffic
- Can withstand wind sheer and peel
Negatives
- Does not last as long as other options
- Needs a lot of upkeep
- Heavy
- Hard to recycle
Single Ply Roof Options
This is a great new choice to flat roofing. Synthetic polymer sheets are sealed to offer a great waterproofing barrier that does not need much upkeep. Single ply is fast and simple to install. It is great for environment too.
Positives
- Fast and simple to install
- Lightweight materials
- Holds up to all sorts of weather
- Good option for the environment
- Lasts thirty years or more
Negatives
- More expensive than felt
- Not the best option for foot traffic if untreated
- Should be installed only by a skilled professional
- Material standards are not as advanced as other choices