A Flat Roof

Flat roofs have existed for hundreds or even thousands of years. They are most common in lower, warmer states and Mexico. However, in recent years they are growing in popularity everywhere. There are some definite pros and cons to having a flat roof. Many people swear by them though. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of putting a flat roof on your home.

Disadvantages

Usually, people want to start with the advantages but today we are saving those for later! There are some disadvantages to flat roofs, unfortunately, but nothing can be perfect right?

1. Curb Appeal: They don’t look great and are not very stylish. Flat roofs may be growing in popularity but they will most likely stick out like a sore thumb in many Pacific Northwest communities. 
2. Drainage: Drainage can be a major issue with flat-roofed homes. You don’t want to stand too want on your roof. Standing water will quickly damage your roofing, causing leaks and other major issues. Luckily, there are ways that you can combat the drainage issue. There are three good ways you can prevent standing water on a flat roof. One is interior drains which is a drainage system that drains through gutters and pipes that are placed in intervals in the roof. There are also scuppers that project water away from your home. Regular gutters can be added to a flat roof.
3. Insulation: Houses with flat roofs have less room for insulation, which means your home may get hotter or colder with extreme weather.
4. Strength: Because of the flatness of the roof they are not as able to withstand weight. This can cause issues in an area that snows. However, a roofer may be able to find ways to improve the strength of the roof.

Advantages

Now that we are done with those nasty disadvantages we can focus on the good stuff! Luckily, there are definite advantages to a flat roof. 

1. Cheaper: This is a definite advantage! Having a flat roof installed on your home is significantly cheaper than having a sloped roof put on. 
2. Quicker: if you are pressed for time or hate construction noise then this may be the route for you. It is much faster and easier to have a flat roof on your home.
3. Maintenance: Because it is so easy to work on, it is also very easy and cheaper to fix if there are any issues with it. Inspecting it regularly is a breeze because it is much safer to stand on. Cleaning gutters is barely a chore when you can stand on a roof. Due to the flat surface, it is just a cinch to maintain. 
4. Space: here is something most people don’t think of, a flat roof gives you more space.  Yes! If you are living on a rather small lot, think upwards! You can create an entire extra living area on top of your home or plant a garden. You can have an outdoor kitchen, the ideas are endless.
5. Solar panels: in a previous blog we discussed the pros and cons of solar panels. A flat roof is the perfect platform for solar panels. So save even more money by cutting your electrical costs.

We hope that this is an enjoyable and informative blog. If you are interested in getting a flat roof installed on your home call your roofer and discuss it with them. For all of your roofing needs call Valley Roofing of Salem, Oregon.