Common flat roof problems
Don’t ignore flat roofing problems…
Minor repairs can soon becomes massive issues if not rectified in a timely manner. Ignoring your flat roof and hoping problems will disappear can come at a massive cost.
Not all of us own homes with a flat roof, but those of us that do need to be aware of the common problems associated with traditional flat roofs. It may only protect a lean-to or carport but if you don’t look after your property, you could end up with major repairs and a big hole in your savings.
But let’s face it – most of us ignore our roof. After all, we have enough to deal with, right? Working, cleaning, washing, keeping the kids healthy and happy, doing minor DIY, a bit of painting here and there… So when it comes to the roof, it tends to be a case of ‘out of sight, out of mind’.
But the cold, hard fact is that your roof is the most important barrier your house has against the elements. Rain, snow, ice, wind – the British weather can damage your home, belongings and most importantly, your family. Your roof is vital to your family and your home’s wellbeing.
Are you confident that your roof is sound?
It’s not always easy to get close enough to see exactly what condition your flat roof is in. However, statistics show that 25% of all roofs have wind or hail damage that cannot be seen from the ground. Therefore it is essential that you check your flat roof regularly to ensure it remains in good condition.
If you are unable to inspect your roof yourself, get the professionals to take a look. Make sure you ask a couple of reputable roofing contractors to assess the condition of your flat roof to get a clearer picture of any issues and costs that may arise to rectify any damage. You may need to notify your insurer if your flat roof needs major repairs as you may be able to claim on your building insurance.
Don’t ignore the problem
Minor repairs may only cost a few hundred pounds if caught quickly. But if you ignore the issue, you could end up with a flat roof that needs to be completely replaced. During this time, other parts of your home – such as the joists and ceiling – could have been damaged due to water leaking under the roof membrane. These kind of repairs are likely to cost you thousands.
The fact is that any issue with your flat roof will only get worse and more expensive the longer you try to ignore it. After all, your roof certainly isn’t going to magically fix itself!
Traditional flat felt roof not up to the job?
Many older buildings still have a traditional flat roof, made of mineral felt laid over the top of timber decking, which is then often covered with a protective layer of stone chippings. These flat roofs are notoriously difficult to maintain and over time, blister, crack and move, eventually succumbing to the elements.
They can also be damaged by moss and algae, further degrading the condition of your roof.
As such, you can have issues with insuring traditional flat roofs – there are many insurers that refuse to cover contents ‘protected’ by a felt flat roof over seven years old.
If your roof is made of felt and is more than a few years old, making rudimentary repairs is unlikely to fix the problem long-term.
What about insulation?
We are all keen to maximise our living spaces. Yet the last thing we want is for those rooms to be so cold no-one wants to spend any time in them. Plus think about the energy – and money – you’re wasting, as a large proportion of the heat in your home is escaping out of the roof.
Therefore it is important that your flat roof has the right amount of insulation to drive down utility bills and drive up the comfort!
Do you need to replace or upgrade your flat roof?
Don’t ignore the problem anymore – based in Basildon, High-Tech Membrane Roofing is a local, approved installer of market-leading Single-Ply PVC roofing systems. Our carefully selected products offer the ultimate in protection and come with a LIFETIME guarantee .
Unlike traditional flat roofs, our membrane roofing systems are 100% waterproof and weather resistant. They will never blister or crack and offer unsurpassed protection against damaging UV rays. Our flat roofs are unaffected by expansion and contraction and are 100% maintenance free.
So if you are concerned that your failing flat roof may compromise the wellbeing of your property and its contents, don’t delay – call High-Tech Membrane Roofing today.
