How to Look After a Flat Roof

Most buildings in the UK have roofs that are either flat or sloped (also known as ‘pitched’). Both are familiar sights. Sloped roofs have tiles that funnel water towards the guttering and offer attic space inside. Flat roofs are more popular for commercial buildings, but they have a range of benefits that make them ideal for your home, too.

Understanding how your flat roof works and how to take care of it is crucial if you want to keep your home free from damp and similar issues. This blog will discuss flat roofs and explain why our roof treatment is the best in the UK.

The Advantages of a Flat Roof

There are many reasons why people choose a flat roof over a sloped one.

Cost

The first, and often most important, is the cost. Roof tiles are always expensive, regardless of what material they’re made from, and the roof structure requires more materials to build. Flat roofs in comparison are much simpler, so they can be installed quickly and without taking up too much of your budget. You also have more options with windows too; you could even have bay windows or a balcony if that suits you, something much more expensive to install into a sloped roof.

Space 

A flat roof can also give you more space inside. Instead of a sloped ceiling, with beams and supports that reduce space even further, you have a top floor with as much room as those below. This means that, instead of an attic that is only good for storage, you can have a much more versatile room that you can use for anything.

The roof itself can also be used, provided it is safe enough. It’s not quite as lovely as a garden, but if outdoor areas are at a premium, any extra way to step outside for some fresh air is beneficial. For commercial buildings, roof access is necessary for inspections and maintenance, so almost all have flat roofs that can be accessed from inside.

Energy efficiency 

Last but certainly not least is the energy efficiency of a flat roof. A flat roof with proper insulation keeps heat in more than a sloped alternative. Because of the materials used on the outside, they also prevent direct sunlight from overheating the building, so it’s nice and cool during summer, and additional ventilation isn’t necessary. Also, as you have ample, flat space, you can install solar panels that provide eco-friendly energy for your home. Both of these features save you a lot of money in the long run, and if you add this to the lower initial costs, these are the cheaper roofs by far.

The Disadvantages of a Flat Roof

Naturally, flat roofs aren’t perfect, and a few issues outweigh the savings, at least for some people.

Appearance 

The biggest is the look. It’s hard to deny that an elegant, tiled roof doesn’t look much better than a flat one, especially if you convert the attic and add windows. The waterproof coating of a flat roof means they’ll almost always be grey or black, and there are very few materials to choose from, compared to the dozen or so types of roof tile.

However, if curb appeal is your primary concern, remember that the roof won’t be visible from the ground or any windows unless you have an extension.

Maintenance   

Because the roof is flat, assorted debris can collect on it, so roof cleaning by companies like ours is helpful to ensure comprehensive roof maintenance.

How does a Flat Roof Work?

In the past, people were resistant to installing a flat roof because they were prone to collecting standing water. If left alone, these puddles would let moisture slowly seep into the roof’s surface, damaging the vulnerable wooden structure underneath. This is the leading cause of leaks or dampness, which leads to mould or a sagging ceiling in some severe cases.

Nowadays, flat roofs don’t have this issue as often. These ‘flat’ roofs aren’t as flat as they look. A modern roof will have a slight horizontal pitch, only 10-15 degrees at most, but this has a significant effect. Instead of pooling, water will flow off the roof and towards your gutters. This isn’t as effective as tiles, but it does more than enough to keep the roofs beneath warm and dry.

The flow of water is helped by a waterproof coating, which prevents water from seeping even when it can pool.

This sounds like you have nothing to worry about and can rest assured that your flat roof won’t develop issues. However, although modern roofs are great, they won’t work perfectly forever.

How to Protect a Flat Roof

Over time, even a modern roof lining will become vulnerable. Years of heavy rain, snow, and any leaves, dirt, and grime that build up will slowly wear away the protective coating it came with.

By keeping your roof clean, you can maximise its lifespan. To do this, you should regularly sweep away standing water, leaves, and other debris.

 A deep cleaning every few months is recommended, too; this will remove the more stubborn material that clings to the roof. A jetwash is the best tool for the job, or you can organise a professional cleaning that will handle it for you, to a much higher standard.

Maintaining a flat roof can be a headache, but when you consider the cost of repairs, it’s more than worth your time. However, cleaning your roof will only go so far – older flat roofs will eventually be at risk of leaks or sagging.

Don’t worry, we have a solution. Our unique thermal roof coating is designed to protect all types of roof but works best on flat surfaces. It reduces the maintenance your roof will need, a quick brush will be more than enough to keep it looking great, and no dirt or grime will be able to stick to the surface.

Our roof treatment also increases your home’s energy efficiency, as it provides an extra layer of insulation that keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer.

Why Choose Us to Protect Your Flat Roof?

Our thermal roof coating is revolutionary for flat roofs. We work with both domestic and commercial buildings so that anyone can see the benefits for themselves.

But if your flat roof is still working well, and you aren’t yet ready for our coating, why not bring us in for a professional roof cleaning so it’ll look good as new again?

In 2025, installing a flat roof is the best way to improve or expand your home. If you look after your flat roof, it’ll look after you – and if you need a hand, we’re only a phone call away!