Many of the commercial buildings have something in common, and that is the flat roof. You have surely been wondering why are they so usual, and what benefit do the companies get.
If you are planning on building a new facility for your business, you need to consider all of the possible roofing options. Since flat roofs are being so common, you should begin with them and understand why are they regularly used.
Starting from its price points, as well as benefits and disadvantages, informing yourself is the most important process. For that reason, we have created this article with all of the pros and cons of having a flat roof for your commercial building. Keep reading, and see if this is the roofing solution for your new facility.
Pros
We will firstly focus on all the positive things having a flat roof offers. In other words, why is having a flat roof beneficial for most commercial buildings?
1. Affordability
Building a new facility is an expensive process, because of that, saving every penny feels valuable. Compared to the regular pitched roofs, the flat version is drastically cheaper to be built. This is highly beneficial for every business owner, especially for ones who are just starting.
One of the things that dictate the price is the materials, and you need significantly less for this option. However, the thing that makes the flat roofing solution so affordable is the safer installation. This makes the labor rate lower, and it will contribute to cheaper repairs for the future.
2. More useful
With open space at the top of your building, you can have endless options of using that area. Many companies have used that space for the installation of air condition units. That way, you improve the looks of the area around your building. In addition, you prevent vandalizing your AC unit since it cannot be accessed by everyone.
Besides using the space for air condition units, you can create an environment that all the workers can enjoy. By making the roof of your building a garden, you can host events, or create team-building activities that are only improving your firm.
3. They reduce your expenses
When you are at your beginnings, every expense feels overwhelming. For that reason, while you are building your facility, you need to think ahead and find a way to decrease the expenses.
Instead of having a pitched roof, you can use that space for solar panels. That way, your electricity expenses will be lowered, and you can use those finances for additional business improvement.
In addition, you can further isolate the roofing which will decrease the heat of the property.
This is especially great in countries with hot weather because your AC or electricity bill will be lower.
4. They can be accessed easier
Without a dangerous slope, people can easily get on the roof and inspect it for potential damages. This will lower the maintenance costs and creates a safer working environment for everyone.
Even though it is safer, people should still be cautious when they go to the top of the building. For that reason, consider security measures and install partitions.
5. Quicker installation process
Installing flat roofing systems is way easier than the regular options. This significantly speeds up the building process. As a business owner, you highly benefit if your facility is built quicker, without compensating for quality.
To get the best roofing system results you have to find a great roof building company. For that reason, take your time and research about firms in your area, and get the one you can completely trust.
For all of the benefits of such a roof, considering contacting the professionals at https://www.rooflock.com/
Cons
After seeing all the benefits of having a flat roof, we have to put an accent to all of its drawbacks. It is important to know all the cons to understand whether this is the roofing solution you want to install.
1. Better for smaller facilities
Flat roofing systems tend to lose their qualities on larger objects much quicker than on smaller facilities. Although they are relatively durable, it is always better to use this option to its full potential.
When there is direct sun exposure, some of the materials can get damaged and the whole construction can be at risk. For that reason, it is not completely advisable to use them primarily in larger buildings.
2. Their life is limited
Like every other construction piece, flat roofs have their limits. This means that they can last for a specific time before they need to be replaced. In general, you can expect this roofing system to last for at least ten to fifteen years.
On the other hand, their affordability compensates for their soon replacement. You will not have to spend much, and they are quickly installed for a short downtime.
3. Complicated drainage systems
Unlike the pitched roofs where the water slides off them easily, in the flat systems there has to be a good drainage system installed.
It is already known that pooling can occur on flat surfaces, however, the drainage system is here to let all the water out. Although they are complicated, many companies have specialized in their installation process, so you shouldn’t worry.
4. Membranes get damaged
The flat roofing system is covered with membranes that completely protect the construction. With time, these membranes can get damaged and water can get inside the building. For that reason, regular inspections are necessary for preventing such situations.
The membranes usually get damaged by direct sun exposure, so they shrink and open spaces for water to get in. However, there are products with higher quality that withstand hot conditions better. Make sure to talk with the roof installation firm and use materials that are most suitable for your situation.
Conclusion
By going through all the good and the bad things about the flat roofs, you should be getting a clearer picture of whether this is the option you want to install.
It is always a great thing to communicate with the company that will be building your roof.
That way, they might recommend you another option, or explain to you better why a flat roof is the best option for your situation.
