The importance of the right flat roof construction
If you have a property with a flat roof, you may have heard about their vulnerability to certain problems or issues. A flat roof should, in theory, be no more of a problem than a regular roof, but often because of poor construction or negligence, problems arise which can be substantial. Flat roofs made of tar or asphalt can last as little as a decade, while shingles have better rates of around 35 years. Slate pitched rooftops can stand for more than a century. Whatever type of roof you own, regular checks and routine maintenance will prevent costly repairs.
Flat gravel roof
The reason that pea shingle gravel is placed onto flat roofs is to provide coats and protection from UV rays from the sun. Gravel is also effective in weighting down the other roofing materials, lessening the chance of high wind damage. The protection from UV is needed in shingle and gravel as they absorb the sun’s rays, helping to stop roofing materials becoming dry and fragile as time goes on. It goes without saying that the efficacy of gravel is very dependent on how well it has been fixed to the roof. If it is applied badly, exposure to the elements is going to occur under the roofing material.
The shingle, when applied, needs to be firmly affixed to the surface of the roofing material already on place. Usually, this process happens when the mastic asphalt is still warm, or can be affixed with adhesive asphalt. Placing wither shingle or gravel onto a dry surface is a waste of time. This highlights the importance of finding a trusted, professional company with a lot of experience. For Flat Roofing Bristol, visit a site like Aquagard Roofing, top suppliers of Flat Roofing Bristol.
Flat roofs are more exposed to wind than traditional pitched roofs, so when the gravel isn’t weighted down, the nails fixing your roofing materials to the timber are totally exposed and the only thing tethering your roof against the natural elements.
Evidence of moss growth
Despite being called a flat roof, this type of roofing must be built with a gentle incline for effective draining. If you find a build-up of moss or mud, it could be that your roof has not been built with the correct slope. A flat roof needs a little incline to prevent water pooling. If there are signs of vegetation, it is an indication that too much moisture is gathering. The consequences of a puddle of water include damage to your wood, warping and the possibility of leaks inside the property.
Insurance
Many insurance companies view the flat roof as vulnerable and you may have trouble getting home insurance, especially if more than a third of your property has a flat roof. It is seen as too risky. Additional problems include flat roofs that have been made of non-standard industrial materials. The use of non-standard materials always has an impact on home insurance quotes.
