Flat roofing tend to be more common in the commercial sector, however, more and more homeowners are using them in their new builds. While a flat roof doesn’t provide a whole lot of aesthetics to a home, there are many benefits it can provide. Today, we’re going to take a look at what some of these advantages are and what some of the disadvantages are.
The Advantages
- Inexpensive – The materials for installing a flat roof are relatively cheap to buy. You can expect the insulation board to cost around 80 cents per foot. Since there is less risk of falling during the installation process, the labor charges tend to be cheaper as well.
- Fewer Maintenance Costs – Since flat roofs are easy to maneuver on, the maintenance costs tend to be much cheaper. Things, like replacing the roofing materials and even cleaning the gutters, will be cheaper than with a traditional slanted roof.
- Dual Use Roof – One of the biggest advantages to having a flat roof is that you can use it for multiple purposes. It’s a great place to install your outdoor air conditioning units, solar panels, or create an outdoor living space.
The Disadvantages
- Limited Materials To Choose From – With traditional slanted roofs, you have a plethora of options of what you want to use. For flat roofs, your options are typically limited to bitumen, foam, PVC, and tar or gravel membrane.
- Shorter Lifespan – With traditional shingles on a slanted roof, you can expect them to last anywhere between 20 and 30 years. with flat roofing materials, the lifespan is shorter at about 10 to 15 years.
- Less Drainage – One of the biggest noted disadvantages of flat roofs is their inability to properly drain water. When rainfall and snow occur on the roof, it tends to puddle up in areas. Over time, this can drastically deteriorate the roofing materials and lead to roof leaks.
As you can see, flat roofing in Mesa AZ has pros and cons just like any other form of roofing materials. It’s a good idea to consider both angles when making your decision about what type of roof you would like to have installed on your new home. Consider both the finished product look as well as the long-term functionality and maintenance needs.
