Flat Roofing
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In contrast to the ‘standard’ pitched roof-type, a flat roof is a (near) horizontal construction which is covered by impermeable materials. They are designed and constructed in such a way that any rainwater falling on them will successfully and quickly drain away from the roof. They are quick and easy to install and many local roofing companies, big or small, are able to construct or repair flat roofs using a variety of materials.
Where you will find a flat roof
Not every home will have a flat roof, but they are a very common thing, adorning everything from stand-alone garages to bay windows, right through to single storey extensions. A flat roof is a simple way to finish off a property. Flat roofs are a very simple, and comparatively inexpensive construction, made with joists which span the gap between two walls. This is then covered initially by sheet timber (or other material) before being given a final ‘topping’ made from a choice of materials, such as Asphalt or ‘built up felt’ (as the name suggests, layers of roofing felt, held together with roofing tar), GRP flat roofs (glass reinforced plastic – or fibreglass as it is sometimes known) or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber – a single sheet membrane which has improved significantly in recent yeas and offers a significant life span. There are far more expensive but less common options available to you, including fully sealed metal flat roofs – often covered in copper or tin. You may find it harder to find a roofing company who can build a roof in these materials.
Beware of excessive weight!
Flat roofs, whilst easy to walk on, are not always designed for human traffic. A small tear in the roof’s material, caused by the weight of someone standing on a flat roof can lead to significant problems down the line, as this small tear can let in rainwater which will then go on to rot the internals of the flat roof. Having said that, flat roofs made of GRP fibreglass are far stronger than built up felt roofs and are therefore less likely to falter under the pressure of human traffic. Ask your professional roofer if you plan to use your flat roof as a walkway, a sun terrace or as a place for such things as air conditioning fans.
Who can construct a flat roof?
Flat roofs, because they are such a common thing, can be constructed or repaired by the majority of roofing contractors. Most will be highly experienced, certainly when it comes to standard asphalt or built up felt roofing systems. You may have to search a little harder to find companies who specialise in all aspects of flat roofing, such as fibreglass, rubber or metal.
Have a look at the Confederation of Roofing Contractors for more information: http://www.corc.co.uk/