Are you considering a flat roof for your home or commercial property?

Flat roofs are seeing a growth in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. With a number of modern options available that make them more leak proof, durable, and stylish than ever before, it’s no surprise that these roofs are a common alternative to sloped roofs.

If you’re interested in a flat roof, or weighing up your options, here are ten interesting things that you may not have known about flat roofs. Read on for a few facts that will help you to make your decision!

1. Flat Roofs Are Not, in Fact, Flat!

While they’re flatter than standard roofs, technically, flat roots are not flat. A well-engineered flat roof will be sloped ever so slightly to allow rainwater to run off, preventing it from pooling on the roof. This slope is so subtle that most people would be unable to notice.

2. Flat Roofs Make Ideal Gardens

Flat roofs open the doors for endless opportunities. Many apartment complexes take advantage of the additional space by putting in gardens, workout centers, and even swimming pools! Flat roof gardens are also popular for those who have turned their houses into ‘green houses,’ allowing for a living rooftop.

3. Flat Roofs Are Cool Roofs

Not only do they look cool –they are cool! Flat roofs can be covered in special materials that help to keep the building or home cool inside. This helps to reduce energy costs during the summer months, cutting down on the amount of air conditioning that’s needed to keep the place cool.

4. Flat Roofs Should Be Installed and Repaired by Professionals

All too often customers make the mistake of hiring companies with experience in sloped roofing that have little experience with flat roof installation. Flat roofs should always be designed, installed, and built by experienced flat roof professionals. There are specific ways that flat roofing materials should be installed in order to prevent leaks. An experienced professional will have the experience necessary to ensure that the roof is installed properly and designed to last for a number of years.

5. Bird Droppings Are a Major Cause of Damage

Bird droppings are acidic, and because of this, they can damage flat roofs. Aside from adding unsightly spots, bird droppings can cause damage to the cover of the flat roof and lead to additional damage on other layers. To combat this, be sure to take measures to prevent your roof from being attractive to birds.

6. Flat Roofs Are Energy Efficient

Many of the materials used to install flat roofs are energy efficient. Since many flat roof materials are reflective, and light –much of the heat is reflected off of the roof, helping to keep your building cooler in the summer. They’re also able to be insulated, providing greater energy efficiency in the winter as well.

7. Flat Roofs Can Be Insulated

There’s a common misconception that flat roofs have no insulation. While flat roofs require a different approach to insulation than standard roofs –it is possible to add insulation to your flat roof. In fact, there are multiple solutions to help you improve your insulation levels, making flat roofs an excellent energy efficient roofing option.

8. Flat Roofs Are Popular on Commercial Buildings

Flat roofs are especially popular in commercial buildings due to their energy efficient features. Many large companies utilize the rooftop space to store their HVAC machines –keeping them out of sight, yet accessible.

9. With Proper Maintenance, Flat Roofs Can Last Over Twenty Years

A common misconception regarding flat roofs is that they don’t last very long. But with proper maintenance, many flat roofs can last over twenty years. Inspecting your roof regularly is one of the best ways to maintain it. Spotting a small leak, and having it repaired early can save you valuable time and money when it comes to your flat roof. You can actually extend the life of your flat roof by inspecting it before the problems arise.

10. A Flat Roof May Cost Less Than You Think

While the cost of a flat roof varies depending on materials, roof size, complexity, location, and other factors, generally speaking, flat roof installations are often less expensive than many would think. Flat roofs have become more popular in recent years, and thanks to new technology and materials available today they are an affordable option.

When it comes to flat roofs, misconceptions abound. If you’re interested in a Toronto flat roof for your commercial building, or looking for more information on flat roofing options for residential homes, don’t hesitate to contact Essential Flat Roofing, Oakville Ontario’s flat roof installation professionals. We would be happy to answer any questions you have.

For more information on flat roof installation in Oakville, Ontario or the surrounding GTA including Burlington, Hamilton, Mississauga, and Toronto contact Essential Flat Roofing today.

Image: York Region