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Flat roof styles are being seen on more and more homes in recent years; the main reason being, they are considered more energy efficient than a gabled roof design. Customers also find they save on construction costs with the installation of a flat roof because it takes up less surface space and uses fewer construction materials.
There are myriad factors to consider if you’re thinking that a flat roof construction may be an ideal option for your home. A flat roof added to a contemporary designed home might seem an easy construction project, but there are many factors to keep in mind when talking to a Florida roofing contractor about this.
Working with a roofing contractor that is experienced in the installation of flat roof styles is critical to a successful project. Never undertake a project until you have asked for, and checked references for potential contractors. You will also want to see real life examples of the work he has done.
Many flat roofs are constructed with a layer of tar and gravel although some contractors use tin or copper. Your contractor will discuss the merits of each type of layering material with you as well as the prices, advantages and disadvantages of all of them. There are even some homeowners that are working with roofing contractors to turn their roofs into a “living roof.” Living roofs are those that are covered with a thin layer of soil and on which plants and grasses are grown. The thought behind this method is that it is the ultimate way in which a homeowner can go green; a concern though is that the roots from the plants can burrow into the roof itself and cause leakage issues.
Other considerations include the fact that a sloped roof can last at least 15 years, usually many more depending on the climate. A flat roof will need to be replaced on a ten-year cycle in most cases. There are also instances in which a homeowner made an initial decision to have a flat roof, but eventually changed their mind and reverted to a sloped roof (this is according to the National Roofing Contractor’s Association).
Flat roofs will also require more frequent inspections than sloped roofs. Flat roofs are more prevalent in warmer climates than they are in the cooler areas of the country; the reason for this is that flat roofs tend to lead to ice damming and leaks even though modern roofs are typically constructed with a membrane-covered sealant to add to leakage prevention.
If you have your heart set on a home with a flat roof design, it’s best to talk with a trusted roofing contractor and to understand all of your options and pros and cons of the project.
