Perhaps you’ve considered the idea of a flat roof for your St Clair Shores home. Or maybe not. Whichever the case, we’re here to educate you about a flat roof.
What are great reasons to install a flat roof? Why not attempt this roofing project? If you’re in the process of planning a new home or considering a roof replacement, this guide is for you.
To dive deeper into the topic of residential flat roofs, we’ll tackle the following:
- Advantages and disadvantages of flat structure
- Possible flat roofing materials to use
And remember, you may need the help of experienced commercial roofing professionals in Clinton Township MI to obtain all the advantages flat roofs provide properties.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Flat Structure
A flat roof construction has its share of pros and cons. These can range from affordability, the chance to build a home extension conveniently, safety, drainage issues, and more. Check them out below.
Benefits of a Flat Roof
1. Enjoy a lower expense
“Are flat roofs cheaper?” We answer that with a big yes. Flat roofs are affordable in two ways. First, the materials and labor cost less. Contractors worth with large sheets and installing them won’t take a lot of time. Pitched roofs require additional support and more materials.
Secondly, flat roofs offer extra space at the top. You can use the area to store equipment or have another bedroom. A pitched roof won’t allow for more space, which means you spend on a renovation.
2. Build flat roof extensions
If you need to extend your home, choosing a flat roof makes the process faster and cheaper.
If you really need to build an extension, flat roofs make this possible. Flat roofs can be your go-to option for a home extension. Since they’re easy to work with, you complete your extension project in less time.
While a flat roof extension seems like a simple task, never do it on your own. Seek the help of a professional roofing contractor.
3. Utilize the space above
As we mentioned, you can maximize the area right above your flat roof. There are a ton of ideas to take advantage of with flat roofs.
An eco-friendly move would be to grow a garden on your flat roof. Flat roof gardens cool down the rooms beneath them, thereby helping save energy. Another option would be to use the rooftop space as a dining area. How about installing solar panels? Ahh, those are also great!
4. Easier and safer to maintain
Yes, going up a flat roof to maintain it presents less risk of falling off. To help people move around quickly on a flat roof, you may build a parapet wall. Ask your roofing contractor to recommend a flat roof material that holds up to foot traffic. A durable material is less likely to get damaged even if you constantly walk on it.
5. Get a modern appeal
Here’s an example of a home with modern architecture. Notice that it only uses a flat roof.
Speaking of the advantages and disadvantages of flat structure, don’t forget that it makes your home look modern.
But the best part is that a flat roof suits any landscaping style or theme. It complements any exterior home decor — modern or ancient. Nowadays, flat roofs are becoming more of a trend. All you need is a catalog of design ideas to inspire you.
Downsides of a Flat Roof
1. Susceptible to leaks
Two weeks ago, a potential homeowner wanted our advice. He asked, “Should I buy a house with a flat roof? Is it worth it?” We told him that of course, a home with a flat roof is worth the investment.
However, we also explained that a flat roof could leak if it’s poorly built and maintained. Quality workmanship ensures that a flat roof is angled correctly to facilitate proper water runoff. Also, you must schedule regular inspections to catch damage early on.
2. Degradation by the sun
Unfortunately, flat roofs receive more sunlight during the day because of their shape (which is flat). Pitched roofs with varying forms, on the other hand, get less exposure due to their angles.
This drawback should not stop you from getting a flat roof. One practical thing you can do to protect your roof from the sun’s heat is by applying reflective roof coatings.
Read More: Residential Flat Roof Construction: Benefits and Downsides
Flat Roofing Materials for Your Home
Done checking out the advantages and disadvantages of flat structure? Great. Now, let’s find out what flat roofing systems you can install on your home. Perhaps you also want to replace an old roof.
1. Flat Concrete Roofing
While we include this flat roof on this list, it’s no longer the most popular material. In the past, it used to be. The most significant advantage of a flat concrete roof is its resistance to high winds. The disadvantages of flat concrete roof include the need for extra support and problems with chipping and fading.
2. Torch Down Flat Roofing
Hire an experienced roofing contractor to install a torch down roof. Installing this roof requires skill.
A torch down roof is also termed “modified bitumen” (buy-too-men). Installing this material requires the use of heat, which could cause potential fire hazards if care isn’t taken. This is why you must hire a qualified company to install a torch down roof. This roof performs well in cold weather. It also helps lower your energy bills.
3. EPDM Flat Roofing
An EPDM roof is an environmentally-friendly choice and made from synthetic rubber. It’s also one of the most affordable flat roofing systems you’ll come across. To apply this roof, you’ll only need an adhesive. The process is fast and easy — a plus for homeowners who want fewer disruptions.
While most commercial property owners use an EPDM roof, its benefits hold true for residential property owners as well.
4. TPO Flat Roofing
TPO roofing systems are well-praised for their ability to resist dirt and algae build up. If you want an energy-efficient material that keeps your home cooler, choose TPO.
Wrapping Up
This concludes our post about the advantages and disadvantages of flat structure. Put them in mind before starting your roofing project. Whatever your decision may be, you need the expert insight of a professional roofing contractor — preferably one from St Clair Shores MI. Always go local.
Here at Miller’s Home Improvement, we specialize in various types of roofs and provide complete roofing services — from installations to repairs to roof damage insurance claims. Call us at 248-266-8773 to LEARN MORE and request a FREE QUOTE!
