A flat roof is an excellent option for any house or commercial building. Because of their modern aesthetics, durability, and leakproof abilities, flat roofs have seen a lot of growth in popularity over the past years.
Just because they are popular, does not mean they are well known.
Many home or building owners simply choose a flat roof because their contractor said it is a good option or because they want a modern feel for their home. What most people do not know is basic knowledge of a flat roof and why it is a good option over other roofing materials. Craven Construction shares these eight facts about a flat roof to help you better understand the roofing material and decide if it is best for you and your home.
8 Facts About A Flat Roof
1. They Are Not Truely Flat
Looking at a flat roof, most people would say they are flat. While they are flatter than a typical roof, such as tile or metal, technically speaking, a flat roof is not flat. A very slight slope is required for rainwater to run off of the top and prevent it from pooling. The good news is, most people are unable to even notice the slight slope.
2. Flat Roofs Are Cool Roofs
While a flat roof is undoubtedly cool in a fashionable sense, we’re talking about a different type of cool. The design of a flat roof and the materials it is made of will help keep your home or building cool on the inside. If you live in an area that sees a lot of high temperatures (Heyyyy, Arizona!), a cool roof can help cut back on your energy bills by running your air conditioning less.
3. Repairs & Maintenance Should Be Completed By A Pro
Some roofing materials allow for general and simple maintenance to be completed by the homeowner or building maintenance. A flat roof requires repairs and maintenance to be completed by a professional roofer. Their installation and design are quite complex and materials should be handled by someone who has experience with flat roofs. They will have the necessary tools and equipment to make repairs that will last.
4. Energy Efficient
Since flat roofs are comprised of materials that are light and reflective, a lot of heat is reflected off oof the roof. This helps keep your home or building cooler throughout the year, especially if you live in an area with high temperatures all year long. The cooler the inside, the less your HVAC equipment needs to work and the less your energy bills should be. In the cooler months, a flat roof provides insulation, which also helps the energy efficiency of your home or commercial building.
5. Popular Commercial Roofing Style
Flat roofs are incredibly popular as a commercial roofing style for several reasons. They are the most cost effective roofing material when installing a new roof on a building. The fact that they are flat means they require less material and less complexities to work around, both of which help keep the cost lower than other materials. Many companies or building owners also use them because of their energy efficiency and keeping heating and cooling costs lower. Lastly, a flat roof provides a space to house the HVAC equipment or other large systems required for the building to function. This keeps interior space available, but still allows the equipment to be accessed.
6. Can Last Upwards of 20+ Years
A roof can last for a very long time, but it requires proper installation and maintenance to be completed on a regular basis. With that, a flat roof can last upwards of 20 years. As a homeowner or building manager, you will want to regularly assess the flat roof and know when it needs professional repair. Taking care of minor repairs now can help prevent significant damage and loss in the future.
7. Their Versatility Is Unmatched
A flat roof offers endless opportunities for its surface. When done correctly, you can take advantage of the additional space. Many home or business owners use the space to store HVAC equipment, solar panels, create rooftop gardens or hangout spaces, or even use it as additional storage. If you are considering a flat roof, discuss what else you can do with the space with your roofer, the versatility is unmatched!
8. Bird Droppings Can Be Damaging
Bird droppings are acidic and can cause damage to a flat roof. When not cleaned up, the acid can eat away at the materials and easily start to damage layers below the surface. You can either regularly clean the surface or take preventative measures by deterring birds from hanging out on your roof.
Dicuss Your Options With A Roofer
Flat roofs are not for every home or building, but they certainly do offer an attractive look! If you are considering a flat roof, contact your local roofing contractor to discuss what you can do with your roof. They will be able to assess the structure of the building and provide you with a plan for a flat roof installation. Be sure to discuss what else you can do with a flat roof whether you want to install solar panels, a garden, or simply just use the space as storage.
Craven Construction is available for all of your flat roofing needs in the East Valley! Our team has been working on flat roofs over 20 years. We are licensed and insured for your added peace of mind and will get the job done in the most efficient manner. Call our office to schedule your FREE estimate for a new residential or commercial flat roof.
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.