Take a stroll through any industrial estate, shopping centre, or modern office complex, and you’ll be hard-pressed not to notice something they all have in common: flat roofs. Not the nice, tiled varieties you might be used to seeing on residential properties, but large horizontal spaces that seem almost too simplistic to concern yourself with. Yet, these apparently simplistic structures have a weight of responsibility that goes far beyond simply keeping the rain out.
For those business owners looking to undertake a roofing project, whether replacing an existing structure or installing a brand-new one, the decisions surrounding flat roofing can be overwhelming. The good news? Once you grasp the essentials of what matters most, the way forward becomes considerably clearer.
Why Flat Roofs Dominate Commercial Buildings
The ubiquity of commercial flat roofing is no accident; rather, they offer several benefits that simply cannot be replicated by their pitched cousins. The space offered by these roofs can be utilised for various purposes, from housing air conditioning equipment to solar panels and even green roofs themselves. Installation is quicker and requires fewer resources than a pitched equivalent to cover the same floor space. And when it comes to accessing these roofs for repairs and maintenance, flat roofs simply cannot be beaten.
The Material Question
Single-ply membranes, made of EPDM rubber or PVC, offer an alternative, modern solution for commercial roof replacement. These materials come in the form of sheets, already manufactured in the factory, thereby reducing the inconvenience of application, as well as the unpleasant fumes associated with built-up roof materials. Additionally, they are relatively lightweight, an important consideration if the structure of the premises is subject to weight constraints. Furthermore, repairs are relatively easy, while the PVC material is effective in reflecting summer heat.
Liquid-applied systems, the newest form of roof material, is essentially rolled or sprayed onto the roof surface, thereby providing an effective seamless finish without the inconvenience of joins or seams. Moreover, they can be applied over an existing roof, thereby saving the cost of removing the old material, an expensive exercise.
The Installation Window
Roofing contractors have busy times of the year for a reason, and this is because most roofing types need to be installed within a specific window of dry, moderate conditions. This limits the installation window considerably when you consider the British climate.
Installing your flat roof within the late spring to early autumn window will ensure you have the best conditions for a smooth operation.
Maintenance Isn’t Optional
Something else to consider when you think you know all you need to know about flat roofing is that your commercial flat roof requires regular maintenance. This isn’t something to be taken lightly; twice-yearly inspections, cleaning drains and gutters, and clearing debris from your roof are essential to getting the most from your roof.
Small issues now could end up costing you several hundred pounds to put right, while the same issues left to develop could end up setting you back several thousand.
The right roofing contractor will be able to offer you a maintenance package, and this is something you should consider.
Moving Forward
Installing your commercial flat roofing need not be difficult, and this is because you simply need to consider your needs, get a few quotes from reputable contractors, and then make your decision based on the overall costs rather than the installation costs.
Your roof may not be the most fascinating aspect of your business, but it is certainly one of the most vital.