3 Important Things To Know About Flat Roofs
Many homes and commercial buildings in and around Dublin have flat roots. If you’re building has one or you are thinking of having a flat roof put on your extension, there are a few things you need to know. In this post, we are covering the top three things that you should know about flat roofs. Understanding the distinctive characteristics of this type of roof systems and how it functions is vital and below are the three things everyone should know.
Top 3 Flat Roof Things You Might Not Know
When people think of flat roofs they may not be aware that this type of roofing system has a number of elements that need to be taken into consideration before installation.
Flat Roofs Do Have a Slope
Flat roofs that have been designed properly have a low slope included. This slot can be as little as 0.25 inches per foot and is barely visible to the naked eye. This minimum slope is however essential and it allows rainwater to drain off the roof. If the slope isn’t adequate, water can form puddles on your roof and this added weight can cause damage to the underlying layers and cause roofing problems. If this problem isn’t addressed, the standing water on your flat roof can actually degrade your roof covering and enter your property. Over time, water pooling can ruin your insulation, weaken your roof structure, and cause interior damage to your commercial property or the roof on your extension.
Not All Flat Roofs are The Same
Many flat roofs are custom fabricated during the installation process and this means that each one is unique. There are also a number of different materials that can be used to create a flat roof and these include, multi-ply BUR or modified bitumen membranes. Single membranes such as thermoplastic PVC and TPO can also be used. Each of the roofing materials that are available have specific maintenance and repair requirements so it is essential that repairs are done by expert flat roofing contractors that have experience working with the type of roof that you have in place.
Flat Roofs Must Have Good Drainage Systems
A good drainage system is essential if you plan on having a flat roof installed. It is essential to maintain your drainage system too as this will keep your flat roof watertight. There are a number of different types of drains that can be used on flat and low slope roofs but the most common one used in Dublin is gutters that are installed around the roof edge and connected to downpipes. If the drains on your roof aren’t in the right position or haven’t been installed correctly this can cause problems. So too can gutters that become clogged with debris as this can allow rainwater back onto your roof and lead to membrane degradation or water leaks into your building.
If you need flat roof repairs or any advice on flat roofs, our Dublin flat roofers are always on hand to help you out. Call the office any time and we will be happy to schedule a call out.