Are flat roofs unfairly criticized? What are the advantages and disadvantages of flat roofs? How long do flat roofs last, and is the risk of leakage higher compared to pitched roofs? What is the cost of constructing flat roofs?
Flat roofs are often the last choice for many, especially when it comes to private homes. Cold in winter, scorching in summer, moisture, leakage… These are all legitimate concerns. Several decades ago, flat roofs were very popular in construction. The problem is that back then, much inferior materials were used, and all those roofs are now so old that they have been causing problems for many years.
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Buying an apartment in a building with a flat roof several decades old is unthinkable today, as one knows they would be embarking on a great adventure. However, that doesn’t mean everything is so bad.
Today, construction materials are incomparably better than in previous years, and if a flat roof is executed properly and in compliance with all regulations and standards, the absence of worries can be measured in decades. And there are indeed advantages to flat roofs.
Advantages of Flat Roofs
The first and most obvious advantage of flat roofs is the additional usable space they provide. This is particularly evident in urban areas where space is scarce. If a house has a flat roof, it can be used as an open space for relaxation or recreation, or as a huge additional terrace.
Today, options for greening roofs are available, such as laying down lawns, so instead of a pitched roof, or rather an unused space, it is practically possible to have a real yard isolated from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Another advantage of flat roofs is that, for the same area to be covered, they are cheaper than pitched roofs because considerably fewer materials are needed. With a pitched roof, there is an entire structure that is far more complex. Let’s also mention that installing solar panels is simpler, a trend that is becoming increasingly popular.
Lastly, when discussing the advantages of flat roofs, aesthetics should not be overlooked. Flat roofs blend much better with modern architectural styles, sometimes even being unavoidable to integrate the building into the existing environment. Another significant point on the list of advantages is that it’s much easier to make a flat roof fire-resistant.
Disadvantages of Flat Roofs
As a rule, everyone fears flat roofs because of the risk of potential leakage. True, the risk is higher, but as we’ve already mentioned, the quality of materials today is incomparably better, and if everything is done according to regulations, the roof should function flawlessly for three to four decades. That is a long period, but the fact remains that pitched roofs are more durable, and the risk of leakage or moisture is lower.
Flat roofs aren’t actually flat. They have a slight slope to allow water to drain, and if the drainage is done properly, there won’t be any water accumulation. The problem may arise during winter months and heavy snowfall when snow removal is necessary because the minimal slope doesn’t allow snow to slide off the roof.
In fact, experts do not recommend choosing flat roofs in regions with abundant rainfall or where winters are severe with heavy precipitation.
Also, flat roofs still require occasional repairs and maintenance, which are admittedly easier to perform due to the ease of movement on a flat roof. However, one should expect occasional “dealing” with the roof and certain expenses.
Additionally, if a flat roof is intended for use, especially if the idea is to create certain amenities or greenery, one should not expect its construction to be more affordable than a standard pitched roof.
Approximate Costs of Flat Roofs
When it comes to cost, it depends a lot on the quality of materials chosen and the type of flat roof itself. For the most basic versions, you can expect to spend between 100 to 200 dollars per square meter.
If you opt for a flat roof that can be used, meaning one that can be walked on every day, the price is over a hundred euros per square meter.
For green roofs that are covered in vegetation, when it comes to cost, only imagination and creativity are the limits, but expect around 300 euros per square meter and up.