Roofers Dublin Help for Flat Roofs

Our expert roofers Dublin deal with flat roof installations all the time and have decided to put together this guide to help homeowners who might be considering a flat roof. This blog post has all the information you need from planning and design, to installation and maintenance and if you need any additional help just give us a call.

Many homeowners think flat roofs cause problems but this really isn’t the case. The main problem that a lot of people face when it comes to flat roofs is proper drainage. Before opting for a flat roof drainage is one of the things you really need to consider. What happens when it rains, and let’s face it, it rains in Dublin all the time? Where is the water going to go when it lands on your roof? If the rainwater doesn’t drain away properly, it can lead to pooling and this leads to damage. Of course with the right advice and by using expert roofers, you can avoid that altogether. Before opting for a flat roof you need to spend time on planning and design.

Designing and Planning a Flat Roof

Once you’ve made the choice to have a flat roof installed on your Dublin home, the next step should be to plan it properly. This should be discussed your designer as well as your roofing contractor who will be providing the materials and installing them. There are some special requirements for flat roofs and these should be integrated into your design from the beginning. Access to the roof needs to be included in your design process too and regular roof inspections will need to be carried out and if you have to have repairs at any stage access should be safe and easy.

Flat Roof Drainage

Draining on flat roofs is essential. Although considered a flat roof, there will be a slight slope to allow for drainage. Having adequate drainage is key to avoiding problems down the line as well as costly roof repairs. Having a good design will ensure the fall of your flat roof is at the correct angle to ensure that water flows away and into your gutters and downpipes. A good guttering system with appropriate downpipes is important and even small flat roofs should have a minimum of two draining points. This number increases depending on the size of your roof.

Flat Roof Installation

Only qualified roofing contractors should install your roof. They should be experienced, qualified, and certified to carry out the work. Here at Roofing Experts, we have over 40 years of experience dealing with Dublin’s roofs and our roofing contractors are highly skilled and efficient in all manner of roof installation both flat and traditional sloped.

Flat Roof Maintenance

Roof maintenance should be included in every home maintenance schedule. If your flat roof is designed and installed properly it will last and the need for expensive repairs will be unnecessary. To ensure this remains true, it is important to schedule regular maintenance and roof inspections as it will save you money in the long term. You should have your flat roof inspected twice a year but if you have overhanging trees, or worry about storm damage, be sure to have your roof checked more often.

If you are planning on a flat roof installation, be sure you work with a team of professionals who can advise you and carry out the work to the highest standards. Get in touch with our Dublin roofing contractors today who will be happy to discuss your project needs.

Flat Roofing Dublin: Hiring Professionals

No matter where you live in the city or county, if you need flat roof repairs you need a professional flat roofing Dublin company and in today’s post, we are going to tell you why.

Finding quality flat roof repair companies in Dublin can be a challenge at times. You need to find someone you can rely on and a company that has a good reputation in your area too. As well as this, you want a good time response, especially for emergency roofing problems.

A damaged roof can cause a myriad of problems especially if you have a flat roof. It needs to be spotted and fixed in the quickest time possible. Here at Roofing Experts, we have experienced flat roofers who deliver quality work around Dublin and the surrounding area. Our Flat roofing Dublin team are qualified and trained to deal with all manner of flat roof repairs as well as offering advice on the different materials that can be used. No job is too big or too small.

Flat Roofers Dublin Where Quality Counts 

Your roof may be in great repair right now, but you never know when problems will arise and that is why it’s important to know who the roofing contractors are in your area. Your home’s roof is one of the most important aspects and any damage can lead to further problems especially on flat roofs. Knowing you can have it repaired quickly is important. Regular maintenance and checks will ensure you notice any problems before they get out of hand.

There are numerous reasons why you should always use professional roofing repair companies and while many of it makes perfect sense, some people do get swayed by money. Maybe you don’t have the money at hand for repairs. If this is the case it is worth noting that professional roofing contractors will have payment options that will help spread the cost over the length of the job. They will also advise on repairs that need to be carried out immediately and those that can wait a little longer. (Not too long though as all repairs left undone will worsen with time.)

Another reason to hire professionals is of course quality and when it comes to flat roof repairs, quality is something you definitely need. Experience counts and our flat roofing experts are fully trained and able to work on a wide range of roofing problems. Whether you have a flat roof or a standard roof our expert Dublin roofers are here to help. We can replace damaged slates, clean and clear gutters, fit new roofs, carry out emergency roofing repairs, install Velux roof windows, repair lead and copper valleys, attic insulation, and more. All of this is done to the highest standards and all our work adheres to health and safety regulations too.

All flat roofing repairs need to be handled quickly and by experienced roofers. Our Dublin flat roofing team take great pride in the quality of work provided both for domestic and commercial customers throughout Dublin. We also have full insurance so you can be assured that any work carried out on your home is fully protected. If you require any further information our team are always on hand to help. Call Roofing Experts today to find out about flat roofing in your area.

Flat Roof Advantages and Disadvantages

One of the most controversial roof types for homeowners and commercial buildings is the flat roof. It is often used on large buildings and some extensions. The flat roof does come with its own set of needs and challenges though and in this post, we are discussing the advantages and disadvantages of having a flat room. If you are considering this type of roof this post is for you.

Advantages of a Flat Roof

There are a number of advantages to choosing a flat roof and we have these listed below.

• Cost: This is by far the biggest advantage. The building, installation, and materials for a flat roof often cost far less than a sloped roof. The types of materials used make it affordable both during the installation and in the maintenance and upkeep further down the line.
• Usage: Another advantage to having a flat roof is the fact that the space can be used. Solar panels can be installed and they aren’t visible from the ground. You can add a rooftop garden or communal space if it’s a commercial building. The possibilities for what you can do are endless and this is one of the great benefits to having a flat roof installed.
• Attics: Another benefit to the flat roof is that you have more interior space too. Finished attics don’t have the sloped walls that traditional pitched roofs create. This makes a flat roof a great idea for homes where more attic space is needed.
• Accessibility: Flat roofs are generally more accessible than sloped roofs. This means that cleaning your gutters, roof repairs, and installing solar panels or satellite dishes is easier and less expensive. 

Disadvantages of a Flat Roof

Now that we’ve covered the advantages, it is time to look at the disadvantages of choosing a flat roof.

• Drainage: The biggest disadvantage of having a flat roof is drainage. Flat roofs do drain but not nearly as well as pitched roofs. Water can have a tendency to puddle or remain on the roof and this can lead to damage to the roofing material and eventual leaks if regular maintenance is not carried out.
• Roofing Materials: The vast majority of flat roofs use a type of rolled roofing such as rubber or bitumen. These are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but they do come with a limited lifespan of between 10 and 15 years. Some materials like PVC and polycarbonate are available and can last longer, but these do cost more. 

Flat Roof Considerations

If you are thinking about installing a flat roof you now know the advantages and disadvantages and these are important and will help you when making your decision. Our website also contains a lot more information and you can contact our flat roofing contractors for more information and advice as well as further details on the roofing materials used and more. The flat roofing materials that our contractors use are certified and designed to meet the highest standards of quality and durability.

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.

How To Prevent Flat Roof Repairs

How to Prevent Flat Roof Repairs

Flat roof construction offers a number of advantages for buildings. For starters, they can help keep your home warmer. They absorb the sunlight at a higher rate than slated roofs. They are also ideal for solar panel installations, and let’s face it, solar panels are great for reducing hot water costs. Flat roofs can also be the most economical option for construction and they are quicker to install than other traditional roofing methods. Another are where flat roof are great is that they are more accessible and they are easier to inspect for damage too.

Preventing Flat Roof Repairs Dublin

One of the main causes of roof damage is the lack of proper maintenance. In fact, lack of maintenance is your roof’s worst enemy. Most roof problems start out as minor little things. This could be anything from the need to remove overhanging tree branches to cleaning blocked gutters. Of course, when these are left undone these little issues can cause serious damage. By inspecting and carrying out regular maintenance you can extend the life of your roof and save yourself a lot of money in the long run too.

Roof Maintenance You Can Do Now

There are a number of routine flat roof maintenance and repair jobs you can do for yourself to help prevent damage. As we are just coming out of winter weather, it’s been a long one in Ireland, you can inspect your roof and gutters for any damage that our winter weather may have caused. Clogged gutters and down pipes should be cleared immediately. These are used to channel water away from your house and if they are left block they can lead to serious damage.

Many of the repairs carried out by our roofers Dublin are due to leaks. The majority of leaks occur in places where the roof meets with your home’s walls, chimney, or skylight. It is important to check these areas as well as the flashing for any holes, cracks, tears, or other signs of damage. If your chimney flashing is pulled away or damaged it can cause water to leak into your attic and on into the inside of your house. A small repair can save your thousands if you catch it on time.

Check for any damaged roof tiles and if you see any have them repaired immediately. If you don’t, you could end up with a leaky roof, which left untreated could damage your home’s roof, attic, and more. Tiles that are nailed down can be replaced and repaired at any time of the year. Our roofing experts will have no problem with this type of repair.

Start Your Roof Inspection Today

There’s no time like the present when it comes to maintaining your home and while you may be tempted to start working on the interior until the weather heats up a little more, your roof won’t thank you. Have a walk around your house and make sure there are no problems. Check your gutters and have them cleaned. If you do find something that needs to be repaired, be sure to call our Dublin roofing repairs team who will be happy to carry out a site visit and advise you on the next steps to take.

Flat Roof Repairs In Dublin

Regardless of the quality of the roof, the difference between a roof that lasts long and one that wears out quickly is maintenance. Roofing experts advice that flat roof repairs and maintenance be carried out at least once annually. This allows for early detection and correction of any defect with the roof.

Roofs are either pitched/ sloped or flat. Owing to the design difference, mode of repair might be slightly different but follow a similar procedure:

• Diagnosis of the problem.
• Recommendation and cost estimation.

Before we delve deeper and see what flat roof repairs entails, let’s have a look at some problems frequently observed on flat roofs:

Leakages

This is perhaps is the most common problem. After it rains, the flat design of the roof allows for some water to pool on the roof. Unless this water is drained away, it will slowly penetrate through the weak points of the membrane and get into the house.

At construction, it will be prudent to work with your roofer on some structural adjustment of the roof to allow good water drainage to avert this menace.

Foot damage

Unlike the sloping roof that is obviously dangerous, the flatness of the flat roof makes it attractive point floor exploration. This frequent and at times careless walks damage the membrane. Punctures result which unless promptly sealed will be sources of future leakages.

Shrinkage

It’s not uncommon for the membrane to shrink and pull off. This compromises the integrity of the entire roof and appropriate repairs should be conducted.

Flat Roof Repairs

Inspection

Inspection involves a thorough observation of the roof with an aim of picking out any defect.

While it is always recommended to have the expert do this, it does not hurt developing that curious eye. It will be of help one day when you notice a problem and call in a roofer for repair. After all, it’s your house.

Remember the problems we cited that come with flat roofs? Be on the look-out for a sign of any leakage, shrinkage or foot damaged points. The latter two are easily observable on the roof.

Leakage however may not be easy to ascertain by just looking at the top. You may need to check some vital signs inside the house. Dark patches on the ceiling board, peeling paints, spots at the fireplace and moisture on the walls is a sure confirmation of a leakage.

Moreover, carefully inspect the flashing and seams. As you walk about, look for any signs of damage. Cracks and punctures are damages that would need attention. Check the roof attachment point to the chimney or roof window.

Also check out for ageing signs i.e. the membrane wearing out. Microorganisms like molds and lichens can be dangerous. Over time they compromise the integrity of the roof, therefore the presence of masses is an issue of concern.

The presence of ponds of water should not be taken lightly.

Correct inspection sets the stage for proper flat roof repairs.

Diagnosis

The findings during observation inform the diagnosis. While observation can be done by an amateur too, diagnosis should be left to a qualified roofer.

The roofer goes to great detail to find out what the problem really is. It may not be as it seems, so they try dig out the problem further. This not only to curb damage but also preempt any future damage.

It may entail taking a second closer look or enquiring from the home dwellers of their experience. The roofer inevitably falls back to his training and experience to unravel other deeper issues.

Recommendation and cost estimation

The culmination of the diagnosis is recommendation. The roofer suggests the corrective measures that can be employed to rectify the damages. This alongside a cost estimate.

The extent of damage informs a lot at this stage. If it is just a slight problem, a simple solution is given and it will cost less to fix.

Severe damages will call for intense repair procedures which of course will cost more.

Repair

Repair turns the recommendation into a reality. After understanding the diagnosis and the recommendation of the roofer, you get someone fix the issue.

As always advised, it is important to get someone with the prerequisite skill do the repair. We understand there are many guide books, magazines and DIY videos on YouTube that encourage you to do the repairs yourself.

Actuality, it may not be easy as they portray it. You will come to realize it when you are stuck on the roof with a more damaged roof.

That not mean you cannot fix simple roofing anomalies. You know best.

The repair method will be determined by the severity of the damage. Flat roof repairs may range from simple realignment, membrane replacement, sealing off a crack to high intensity repairs that entail a complete roof replacement.

Flat Roof Repairs Dublin – Experts In Flat Roofing

Flat roofed houses are a common sight in Dublin. It is designed such that the roof overhang does not block windows allowing a lot of light and fresh air into the house. Perhaps that’s why the Irish folks love it.

Just like the pitched roofs require frequent maintenance, so do flat roof roofs. Flat roof repairs Dublin is carried out by many outstanding roofers based in the city. Roofing experts recommend that roofs undergo proper maintenance exercise at least twice annually, or after an adverse weather condition like a storm.

The type of repair and maintenance technique to be employed depends on the type of the roof. There are some common types of flat roofs:

• Built up roofing (BUR). Is constructed by overlapping rolls of treated felt using tar.
• Polyurethane foam. This is sprayed on the surface, and a second coting may be added for protection.
• Modified bitumen. Is made from asphalt and other solvents that enhance its performance.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It’s made from fossil fuels and salt.
• Single ply membrane roof. The seams require propane torch heat to install.
• Thermoplastic olefin. The membrane is mechanically fastened.

Different membranes will require different repair procedure. This is because they are made from different compounds. Your roofer will know exactly how to handle the various repair requirements.

Signs Your Flat Roof Needs Repair

In addition to the biannual inspection report, any of these conditions portends roof damage and will require attention.

• Leakages

This is one notorious problem with flat roofs. Owing to the flat surface design, water may stagnate at different points. Overtime, this water makes its way through the membrane into the house.

• Shrinkage and dislocations

Over time, the membrane might shrink causing it to pull off especially at near the edges or at the joints. Such disturbances cause dislocation that compromises the general integrity of the roof.

• Cracks

Cracks may be a sign of a bigger problem. Unless they are sealed promptly, the cracks increase in size further complicating the roof damage. Ponding water may also follow the cracks and get into the house, causing leakages.

• Old roof

When the membrane has lived up its life, it gets charred and peels off. This is also the case when the house has been uninhabited for a while. The remedy is total replacement.

• Installation error

Installation anomalies mostly is as a result of incompetence in the part of the roofer. The anomalies are seen in the form of leakages, bent membranes and membranes not properly fitting at the joints.

This calls for corrective repairs.

• Foot damages

The walk friendly flat roofs attracts a lot of human activity. Increased foot traffic may damage the roof, dislocating the membrane or puncturing it.

• Loose joints

The areas connecting the roof and the chimney or roof window are prone to damages causing leakages. Therefore when cracks or loose connections are observed, it calls for repairs.

Flat Roof Repairs Procedure

Flat roof repairs Dublin take a particular design. Though different roofers may call it different names, it all appears to follow a certain pattern.

The four stages are:

1. Inspection

This is a critical examination of the roof scoping out for any damage. All the signs listed above as pointers the roof needs repair are the potential hazards that indicate the roof needs attention.

It would be like a doctor examining a patient for any symptoms of a disease.

Experienced roofers can pick out a problem an untrained eye glosses over. That’s why it’s recommended to use the services of a trained roofer especially during the scheduled maintenance.

Yet the homeowner is also encouraged to learn one or two things as pertains to roof inspection. You will be able to save a situation one day when you detect a potential hazardous roof condition. Next time the roofer is around, you want to look at what he is focusing on.

2. Diagnosis.

This entails making sense of the observed anomalies. In our analogy, the doctor based on the symptoms works out the possible ailment.

With good experience it may not take a roofer long to discover the real problem behind the defects noticed.

3. Recommendation.

These are the solutions the roofer gives for the anomalies detected. It is usually a written document detailing the defect (s), what needs to be done and the estimated cost of repair.

Virtually all roofers offer inspection, diagnostic and recommendation services free without an obligation of hiring them do the work.

4. Repair.

This is the culmination of it all. Every other step was preparing the stage for the repair to be done effectively.

While recommendation was similar to a doctor’s prescription, repair is like the actual treatment.

Based on the recommendation, the actual repair is done. It’s always advisable to finish the process with the roofer you started with.

If you find yourself repairing the roof now and then, probably you need to start thinking of complete replacement.

Roofing Contractors Dublin – Do’s And Don’ts of Flat Roofs

If you’re someone with a flat roof then you understand the struggle you have to deal with in terms of installation and maintenance. The thing about flat roofs is that it’s very easy to go wrong with them. However, if you have the basic guide on what you should and shouldn’t do, there’s really no reason for you to face any issues. If you have trouble with maintaining your roofing or often find yourself finding minor flaws every now and then, then this post is the one for you! Here are some dos and don’ts of maintaining your flat roofs as advised by expert roofing contractors Dublin.

The big dos!

Taking care of your flat roof is important, here are a few dos you can follow to make sure you avail a long lasting roof:

1. Make sure you have professional roofing contractors Dublin handling your flat roof installation. This is important because if your roof isn’t installed properly then you risk damaging it and decreasing its lifespan. Nobody wants to waste money on the same thing over and over again and if you don’t get professional roofers then you might have to face that issue.
2. Inspections are very important factors of maintaining your flat roof. Regular inspections means you don’t get to face the trouble of having minor flaws get out of hand and waste a lot of money on getting major fixes done.
3. Make sure you go through proper inspection reports so that you are well aware of your flat roof. Inspection reports of your flat roofs will give you a clear picture of what exactly is wrong with your roof and how you can keep up with its maintenance and replacements etc.
4. Keep a close eye on anything wrong with your ceiling from inside the house. Minor details can save you a lot of trouble in case of flat roofs

The big don’ts

Now that you know what you must do, here are some things you should avoid with your flat roof:

1. Don’t ever do any maintenance by yourself unless and until you’re under the supervision or being guided by expert roofing contractors Dublin. This could often lead to a lot more problems than what you began with.
2. Don’t hire any roofer without checking for proofs and appropriate credentials. By choosing any roofer, you can pose a threat to your roof and also decrease its lifespan immensely.
3. Don’t panic if you’re experiencing any problems with your roofing. The biggest example being a leaking roof. Call a professional contractor and get it checked.

If you follow these tips, there’s really nothing that could possibly go wrong. All you have to do is make sure you have good roofing contractors Dublin handling your roofs and you’ll be good to go. If you have troubles finding a reliable roofing contractor then don’t worry, simply contact Roofing Experts and trust them to take care of all your roofing needs.

Flat Roofers Dublin – Smart Tips On Flat Roofing Maintenance

If you have flat roofing installed on your property, then it is essential that you look after its maintenance earnestly. Lack of proper maintenance can seriously damage your roofing, incurring huge losses, both in terms of money and time. Although it is quite important to have your roofs inspected twice a year by expert flat roofers Dublin, that’s not the only thing that you need to do.

If your property, especially your house, has flat roofs, you too need to be able to look out for possible signs of damage to it and be able to act wisely before substantial damage is rendered. Following a few tips that will help you understand and protect your flat roofs better will help: Prevent water accumulation – If you live in an area that receives significant rainfall, you may have to deal with the problem of ‘ponding water’, wherein the water remains accumulated in different areas of the roof. Accumulated water poses a very serious concern to flat roofs and must be taken care of as quickly as possible. If you find that ponding is a regular problem with your roof, call flat roofers Dublin for a prompt inspection.

Avoid debris of all types – In order to ensure that your roofing is in good condition you must take steps to ensure that debris isn’t accumulated on your roof. Roofs in areas that experience frequent high winds are more prone to face the problem of debris being deposited on the roof. The debris may scratch the roof, cause minute holes in the roofing material or harm the roof surface in the long term. So, be sure to clean the roof of debris before any harm is caused.

Repair cracks immediately – If you have had your roof built very recently, then this may not be a problem for you. But if the roofs have been installed quite a long time back, then prolonged exposure to the UV rays from the sun may have damaged the roofing membrane, thus causing minor cracks in the roofing. These cracks need to be sealed immediately by flat roofers Dublin before any serious damage is caused.

Avoid too much weight – Roofs are often used for various installations or placements. However, everything should be kept within the optimal limits. Each roof can withstand only a specific amount of load and that limit should never be exceeded. In fact, it would be prudent to restrict the weight to a level below the roof’s maximum capacity. This way, you will exert too much pressure on the roof or its weak points that may cause irreversible damage.

Take care of the fasteners – Roof fasteners are meant to maintain the integrity of your flat roofs and if they come off loose, then your roof is seriously in danger. Without fasteners, the roof will not remain properly attached to the actual building and may easily get torn off and damaged during bad weather. If you find any missing fastener or are suspect, call flat roofers Dublin