Flat roofing is still popular in homes across the country, even though it’s not as popular in Europe and the UK as in Europe.
Take a look at your porch, garage, awnings, and sunroom. Chances are they have flat roofs.
Flat roofing has its unique benefits… and its own problems.
Before you start work on your flat roofing, you will need to consider these common flat roofing issues.
You could end up with a serious problem (literally)
Flat roofs aren’t really necessary.
Most houses have sloped roofs. Flat roofs, as the name implies, are almost entirely level.
These roofs offer many advantages over traditional sloped roofs.
- They are easier to install
- They are easier to inspect because they are easily accessible.
- These are great surfaces for solar panel installation
Flat roofing problem: water won’t drain
Water is the greatest enemy of your roof.
Because water from rain runs down your gutters and onto your roof, a sloped roof is standard. This protects your roof against water damage.
However, flat roofs are known for their drainage issues.
Water has no place to go without a slope so it pools in corners of your flat roof.
This can cause damage over time and even leak through your ceiling, causing structural damage and stains, as well as encouraging mould growth.
Good roof plumbing is the solution
Efficient gutters, drains, and other drainage are vital to any roof’s long-term health. They’re even more important if you have a flat roof made of metal.
Talk to your roofer about the plumbing requirements for a flat roof.
A gutter is not enough. You will need to talk about drains and overflows that are built into your flat roofing.
Finally, make sure you have your drains cleaned and inspected on a regular schedule. One roof overflow could be blocked by a tennisball, while a drain may be blocked by leaves. Find out more about roof plumbing.
Flat roofing problem: The flashing is falling apart
Flashing is an integral part of any roof installation.
There will be gaps between different metal sheets or where your roof meets your walls when you install a new roofing system.
Flashing is the solution. Flashing fills these gaps and prevents water from entering your roof, which can cause significant water damage. Flashing can be seen at the corners and junctions of your roof to see an example.
However, a flat roof can trap water longer than a flat roof, which can lead to mould growth under the flashing.
Protect your flashing with water-tight sealing agent
To prevent water from entering your flat metal roofing flashing, make sure you use waterproof sealant
Talk to your local metal roofing specialist during the planning phase about the water resistance, expected lifetime and maintenance requirements for their preferred sealant.
Flat roofing problems: You need help!
Flat roofing has its share of benefits, but it also has unique problems.
These problems can be overcome if you work with flat metal roof experts.
COLORBOND’s metal roofing can withstand harsh Australian environments .
You can rest assured that you won’t be subject to cracks, or any other kind of damage.
To learn more why metal is the best choice for your roof, click here