subject: Advantages of Flat Roofs [print this page] Advantages of Flat Roofs Advantages of Flat Roofs
Until recently, the originality and style that a flat roof can add to a home have gone largely unnoticed. Today, however, homeowners realize that a flat roof can be a beautiful and functional option. When it comes to roofing a home the advantages of flat roofs for new homes or roof replacements should be seriously considered.
History The flat roof is not a new concept: people used this style thousands of years ago for primitive homes; however, the style as well as the construction of the flat roof has changed throughout the years. From the middle to the late twentieth century, flat roofs were almost entirely constructed of hot tar or asphalt and small pebbles covering a wood surface.
Today, this method is still used; however, many flat roofs are now instead protected by a membrane that keeps water from seeping into the home. These are usually PVC, asphalt and tar, thermoplastic, or rubber. All of these are effective ways of sealing the roof from rain and snow - just one of the many advantages of flat roofs.
Benefits of Flat Roofs
Cost Effectiveness: A minimal surface area means less materials, labor, and time needed to construct the roofing.
Safety and Accessibility: Although no roof is completely flat (they are usually about ten degrees in slope for drainage purposes), roof repair, replacement, and gutter cleaning is easy and safe.
Green Design: Flat housetops are ideal for placing solar panels because they receive a maximum amount of sunshine throughout the day.
Versatility: There are many home designs that go well with flat roofing, such as Frank Lloyd Wright style houses, modern designs, southwestern styles with shingles, and more.
Improved Interiors: Steep housetops often create awkward wall space that cannot be used inside the home. Flat styles eliminate this problem.
Forward Thinking: Flat styles make future floor additions less expensive and simpler, if needed.
Options: A nearly even surface opens the possibility of converting part of the roof into a terrace or garden, if done properly.
With all the advantages of flat roofs, they are a great option for homes throughout all of the states in the United States.
