Many of us have flat roofs, whether it is a garage, extension or part of the integral design of our home. But what actually makes a good flat roof?
Not too long ago flat roofs were linked with shoddy workmanship and cheap materials. But with proven extended life-spans, overall cost effectiveness, easy maintenance and demonstrated resistance against the Great British weather, flat roofs are now back and highly favoured.
What makes a good GRP Fibreglass Flat Roof?
Good flat roofs are championed by renowned architects not only because they look great, but because of these qualities:
Suitable deck:
The roof deck is the foundation upon which the entire flat roof is dependent, so it should be the best quality. It must be designed to provide sufficient support for all loads to which it will be exposed, and the method of attachment to the deck must be suitable.
The deck can either be warm or cold, depending on the insulation systems.
Membrane:
The key to a good flat roof is a good membrane.
Whilst their primary purpose of membrane is to waterproof the roof area, they typically allow water to run off from a slight inclination or camber into a gutter system.
There are many membrane options to choose from and your roof installer will help you pick the best one for your project.
Specified end use:
End use must always be carefully considered as the weight of a mastic asphalte membrane or planters may cause deflection. It is also an important factor when considering installing solar panels at a later date.
U Value:
U-values measure how effective a material is an insulator. The lower the U-value is, the better the material is as a heat insulator and that makes a good flat roof.
U values must be achieved for both new and refurbished flat roofs, according to British building regulations. These regulations have to be met, and this judgement is down to the local Building Control Body.
Suitable Falls:
A good flat roof needs to be able to clear surface water as rapidly as possible to avoid pooling or leakage. The required falls for drainage may be formed by the slope of the joists.
Falls in the structure can be completed by modifying the height of the supporting beams or purlins, by using tapered supports, or alternatively by adding firring pieces before the deck is installed.
Installation:
A good quality membrane fitted by a contractor who is trained and approved for that particular system will help ensure a good flat roof.
Each installation has to be treated differently and for that reason you should carefully examine all factors about the building, the current roof (if there is one) and what’s expected of the roof.
At Canova we sit down with our clients and discuss their needs. We listen carefully to what each client wants to achieve with their new roof and are always happy to offer advice and make suggestions. Before any work is begun we will provide you with a full breakdown of all costs so you know exactly what you are getting and can be reassured that there will be no nasty surprises at the end. We also understand that having work done on your home can be a very stressful experience and we always seek to minimise this by explaining exactly what is happening at every stage of the installation process. We turn up when we say we will and treat you and your home with respect.
Our GRP Fibreglass roofs have no joints or seams that would allow water to penetrate and you can be reassured that your roof is leak-free and your home protected for the next 30 years. Our roofs require minimal maintenance to keep them looking great.
If you would like to have a no obligation chat with one our friendly and knowledgeable team, please get in touch today.
You can trust Canova for all of your flat roof, conservatory roof and balcony needs!