In this blog post let s talk about 6 types of roofing materials for flat roofs.
Why flat roofs are bad.
While not frequent per se the low slope of a flat roof does make it more prone to certain problems particularly when it interacts with the elements.
With the good comes the bad and it is important to learn the cons of a roofing system so you can figure out if it is right for your home.
Flat roofs are known as being problematic with many suffering leaks.
In other words they do not allow elements like water to slide off them as easily as steeply sloped roofs do.
The biggest disadvantage to installing a flat roof is the drainage or lack thereof.
Traditional roofs typically last about 30 years.
Compared to older roofing systems epdm weighs lighter.
Despite advances in flat roof construction techniques the truth is they simply do not have the same lifespan as a traditional pitched shingle roof.
This flat roofing dominates the market because it s affordable and strong.
But such a low slope holds snow and water much longer than a steeply pitched roof and therefore needs a very different material to stay watertight.
Although a flat roof can give a slightly increased chance of leakage it is important to note the many benefits of having a flat roof.
Therefore water has a tendency to puddle and remain on the roof which could lead to the roofing material breaking down or to eventual leaks particularly along the seams.
It has a very low slope between 1 4 to 1 2 inch per foot so that it drains water.
The biggest disadvantage of a flat roof is the lack of drainage and this is why it is important to check your roof regularly.
Traditionally the smelly hot physically demanding and sometimes dangerous work of tarring flat roofs has often meant that uneducated fitters of doubtful reputation have done work to a poor standard.
The main reason that flat roofs are more likely to leak is that they are less able to shed water.
Here are the disadvantages of choosing a flat roof for your home.
Flat roofs known for being stylish modern and efficient hit a lot of items on your home bucket list.
Flat roofing is not actually flat.
However in my own experience the problems with leaking flat roofs are usually as a result of either poor workmanship installing the roof membrane poor maintenance by the building owner or as a result of age.
But they also come with a reputation for leaks cracks and collapse.
In the event that your roof does crack you should call a professional immediately.
Crack in roof flat roofs tend to have more pressure exerted on them since they are flat instead of slanted.
This together with a lack of regular inspection and maintenance has meant that flat roofs have a poor reputation and there is an unwillingness to retain or to build them which is unfortunate given the potential usefulness of flat areas the more so with the excellent performance of modern.
6 roofing materials for flat roofs 1.