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Many people wonder why flat roofs are used on commercial, business, council, and government buildings. Here are some reasons flat roofs are an excellent proposition for commercial buildings.
Commercial buildings frequently have flat roofs as a result of their high number of assets. As a consequence, they must use every available square inch of their structures. A slanted roof would reduce the usable space on the top floor and eliminate any storage space on the roof. Commercial properties such as hotels may utilize flat roofs for sky gardens, bars, or decks. Flat roofs can even include pools with appropriate architecture if designed carefully
Because they may only have flat roofs, industrial properties opt for flat roofs. Because such a robust concrete or asphalt flat roof can support these systems, it is ideal for ventilation and HVAC equipment.
Roofing materials for flat roofs, such as EPDM, are more expensive per square foot, but they typically have a lifespan of 30 years or more. Roofs made of less expensive materials like asphalt or gravel might last up to three decades on average.
Flat roofs are also easier to repair since there are no joists to strengthen and extra support beams to install. Contractors charge less for the labor associated with flat roofs because they do not need to build additional stability into the slope in order to meet the building's requirements.
Asphalt is a low-cost, flat-roofing option that is guaranteed for 50 years. EPDM roofs, if properly maintained, can last 30 years. All flat roofs have the same long-lasting lifespan as sloped roofing materials like shingles and shakes, which can last for any home for many years.
Sloped roofs in residential properties depend on the angle of the roof so that rainwater would flow on the gutter system and into their simple rainwater management system.
Flat roofs allow commercial properties to install a complex and sturdy rainwater roll-off system that ensures the rain will not clog or damage any drain. These systems can redistribute rainwater as a renewable resource to water rooftop garden plants or fountains.
EPDM flat roofs are the most unappealing of all synthetic roofing options, in terms of appearance. Because people can only notice the front wall of most commercial properties (because they are frequently too high), property owners may utilize any flat roofing product to get great curb appeal right away.
Flat roofs are a wonderful method to meet any building aesthetic regulations that a commercial area may impose, which is why they are frequently found on commercial structures throughout the country.
Cambridge Flat Roofers specialise in Asphalt rofing Asphalt roofing is a type of roofing that is made with asphalt. It is usually black in color, and it is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is affordable and easy to install. Asphalt roofers are professionals who can help you install an asphalt roof on your home.
Some people believe that asphalt roofing is not as attractive as other types of roofing, but this is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a roof that is durable and easy to maintain, then asphalt roofing may be the right choice for you.
Asphalt roofing is also durable and can last for many years if it is properly maintained.
Some people believe that asphalt roofing is not as attractive as other types of roofing, but this is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a roof that is durable and easy to maintain, then asphalt roofing may be the right choice for you.
If you are considering asphalt roofing for your home, it is important to choose a reputable asphalt roofer. You can ask your friends and family for recommendations, or you can search for asphalt roofers online. Once you have found a few potential asphalt roofers, you should call each one and ask for a quote. Be sure to ask about the roofer’s experience, as well as the warranties that they offer.
When you are ready to hire an asphalt roofer, be sure to sign a contract that includes all of the details of the job, such as the start and finish date, the price, and the payment schedule. You should also make sure that you understand the warranty that is being offered by the asphalt roofer. Warranties typically last for two years, but some asphalt roofers may offer
Asphalt is a sticky, black, and viscous liquid or semi-solid that is found in natural deposits. It is also a major ingredient in the manufacture of asphalt concrete and asphalt shingles.
How is asphalt roofing made?
The asphalt roofing process begins with the mixing of asphalt and aggregate (such as gravel or sand) to create a hot mix asphalt. This asphalt mix is then transported to an asphalt roofing plant where it is mixed with a solvent to create a cold asphalt mixture. This mixture is then applied to the roof and left to cure.
Installing asphalt roll roofing is a relatively easy process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The first step is to clean the roof surface and remove any debris. Next, you will need to apply a layer of asphalt roofing cement to the edge of the roof. Once the cement has been applied, you will need to unroll the asphalt roll roofing and cut it to size. After the asphalt roll roofing has been cut, you will need to apply another layer of asphalt roofing cement and then roll it out again. Be sure to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles. Once the asphalt roll roofing has been installed, you will need to apply a layer of gravel over top of it. This will help to protect the asphalt roll roofing from the sun and weather.
The lifespan of asphalt roofing depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the asphalt, the pitch of the roof, and the installation method. Generally, asphalt roofs can last for 20-30 years. However, if you live in an area with severe weather conditions, your asphalt roof may not last as long. It is important to have your asphalt roof inspected by a professional every few years to ensure that it is in good condition.
Asphalt roofs require little maintenance, but it is important to keep debris off of the roof and to remove any moss or lichen that may be growing on it. You should also have your asphalt roof inspected by a professional every few years to ensure that it is in good condition.
Asphalt is a durable material. It can withstand typical weather conditions and foot traffic. Asphalt roofing may last for more than 30 years if properly installed and maintained.
Asphalt is easy to repair. If any cracks appear you can easily fill them in.
Asphalt is adaptable. It may be molded into a variety of forms to fit a wide range of roofs. It's also appropriate for virtually any size roof.
Asphalt has a smooth, clean sheen and often appears smart and well-kept. It's also common for it to have a matte finish.
Asphalt is a heavy material. Because it is so weighty, the roof structure upon which it rests must be sturdy enough to support its weight without moving or buckling. Asphalt is not a suitable roofing material for fragile or weak roofs, therefore
Weather may have an impact on asphalt. In hot weather, it can become soft and flexible, while cold weather makes it brittle. On impact, brittle asphalt might develop fissures or shatter.
Asphalt can be costly. It is far more expensive per square metre than other roofing materials like felt and rubber.
On significantly sloped flat roofs, asphalt is not recommended. Roofers apply hot asphalt, which means it's in a liquid state. If the slope of a roof is too steep, the asphalt will flow down the roof rather than setting.
If you have a weak or significantly sloped roof, asphalt is an excellent choice. However, it's not the greatest material for a long-lasting roof with a smooth, clean finish. It isn't the finest option if you have a fragile or steeply sloped roof.
Flat Roofer Cambridge: Cambridge Flat Roofing has prided itself on being the goto company for a flat roof in Cambridgeshire and the surrounding areas.
Over the years, many products have been tried and none has proved to be clearly superior. In practice, most customers pick the system their installer recommends. The main concerns to examine are cost and warranty length. In general, don't go for anything less than 20 years. Costs vary from around £35/m2 up to £80/m2.
The most inexpensive covering is hot-applied asphalt roofing in two or three applications, and it might be the cheapest option. You may pick from a variety of grades, ranging from best to worst.
Even though it is a less expensive option, it is constructed up in layers for a more resilient end that's better suited to light foot traffic. And because it's applied hot, it's simpler to form around penetrations and turns.
The most durable option, it is now commonly used under roof terraces that will be walked on, therefore it is frequently laid as a base layer beneath paving slabs.
It's a foam that's usually used in firestops. It comes on cut-to-measure rolls with its own flashing systems and is frequently bonded to the substrate with adhesive. The tire manufacturer Firestone is the most popular supplier, followed by Goodyear, General Motors, and Pirelli.
Because they are designed to sit in an area with a lot of foot traffic, some toilet seats come made from several types of materials, the most popular being PVC. Others include PIB, TPE and TPO, which is particularly popular among individuals who want to avoid PVC due on environmental grounds.
Customers are generally directed to the system their installer recommends, and it's usually installed by authorized installers. These are typically a little more expensive than EPDM, but they come with longer warranties. Sarnafil is still one of the most well-known PVC brands.
Cambridge Flat Roofing also offer a comprehensive service, whereby we can also replace fascias soffits and gutters.
The soffits, fascia, and gutters are just as important for keeping your house pest-free and dry as the rest of your roof. They're also rather appealing from a design standpoint, particularly if you have brand new sparkling soffits and fascias.
If you want to sell your house, upgrading the outside is a smart move. Replace rickety soffits and fascia; they help to protect your roof and walls from damp and water damage. Cleaning new gutters and decorative fascia will significantly improve the value of your property as well as impress the surveyor.
Here's a brief guide to everything roofline, from an introduction to the responsibilities of soffits, fascias, and gutters, which are the essential parts of today's roof lines.
A soffit is a covering that sits between the outer edges of your roof and the house's adjacent wall, protecting and sealing the rafter feet. If you stand beneath the overhang of your roof and look, you will be able to see a soffit (not all roofs have one).
Most soffits are constructed of uPVC nowadays. UPVC soffits, fascias, and fascia are long-lasting and resistant to moisture exposure. Wooden soffits are a classic rustic or historic touch, but they are more likely to decay and deteriorate rapidly, putting the rest of the roof structure at risk.
Fascias have been made of softwood for centuries, but in recent years, high-grade uPVC has been used instead since softwood is prone to decay over time.
Fascias are used to protect and seal the roof of your home from elements, support roof tiles at an eaves level, and provide gutter support. Fascias also have a visual appeal that exposed rafters do not have and add interest to the exterior of your house.
Gutters collect rainwater from the roof and direct the water flow as it drains. Gutters catch the water and send it down to a drain. Guttering is fixed with the correct "fall" to prevent water from accumulating in areas that should not be Pooling, which can lead to your gutters overflowing and causing additional issues.
Every now and then at Cambridge Flat Roofing a flat roof may become leaky. Most of the time however, flat roofs last for many years without any problems. If you live in an area with a lot of snowfall, it is important to have your flat roof checked regularly for damage. Heavy snow can cause the roof to collapse.
If you do have a flat roof that is leaking, there are a few things you can do to repair it yourself. The first thing you need to do is find the leak. This can be done by going into your attic and looking for water stains on the ceiling. Once you have found the leak, mark it with a pencil so you can easily find it when you go outside.
Next you need to determine the type of flat roof you might have.
Bitumen based flat roofs come in two different flavours:
Flat roof pour and roll felting to flat roof
Depending on the construction of the felt, one type or the other may last between 15 and 25 years. There are times when they can be repaired:
consider the following roof repair techniques for splits and tiny holes in the flat roof:
The glue will not be as good as the original product because it is designed to seal wood shingles. However, this version may be used in areas where there are no wood shingles or on roofs that have already been coated with another material. The two layers of Thompson's Roof Seal that we recommend offer the same moisture resistance and strength as the original product, but they do so at a fraction of its cost.
If you don't want to use a polyurethane, there are some alternatives. If the surface is dry or clean, apply one layer of cold bitumen followed by a layer of scrim (aka webbing or mesh) for reinforcement before another layer of cold bitumen as a long-term repair. See here and here for examples of cold bitumen and scrim/mesh. There's an instructional video on Youtube that teaches how to repair flat roofs using scrim and sealants.
To extend the life of the roof without having to replace it, torch a new top layer (cap sheet) onto the roof. Because this operation necessitates the use of a gas-powered torch, it must be performed by an expert.
We think that repairs are a waste of time and money if the felt is drooping between the timber supports.
Any repairs would come apart as the roof dips/bows, reintroducing leaks.
It's impossible to save money by repairing a roof in this situation because you have ceiling timbers, decking, and possibly roof boards and plaster beneath the roof. If the major leak is unrepairable, your timber or plaster may be damaged as a result of missing out on an opportunity to replace the roof.
If you want to replace the felt ceiling rather than ripping it down, choose a day with enough sunshine.
The first step in preparing for a new roof is to remove the fabric covering. Check beneath your deck for any missing components and damaged or worn replacement felt before replacing a new one.
Flat roof bowing and bending We’ve heard reports of insurance companies refusing to pay for damage caused by old leaky flat roofs that should have been replaced years ago so if your flat roof looks anything like the one in the photo above, you should really get it replaced
Roofs made of fiberglass are generally long-lasting and visually appealing because they lack joints or seams.
One of the most prevalent problems with this material is that it may split.
This is mostly seen on rather huge surfaces, such as double garages, although it can also appear on small roofs like those found on porches.
Furthermore, the good news is that repairing fibreglass is straightforward.
All-in-one fibreglass repair kits start at around £30 and take less than an hour to fill in a hole, split, or crack.
There are a slew of instructional films on Youtube, however the process is as follows:
Check out this product on Amazon.
This is a costly flat roof that should endure for decades.
It's regarded by many in the business as "the Rolls Royce" of flat roof materials.
Unfortunately, because it isn't very flexible and is quite hefty, any movement of the roof beneath may result in fractures and cracks.
Mastic asphalt flat roofs can crack for a variety of reasons.
A rubber roof, also known as a "rubber dome," is easy to put up and doesn't need a gas-powered heat torch.
While the material itself is long-lasting, weak points are often discovered at the joints and upstands.
Small holes, rips, and tears can all be readily repaired by using one of the following adhesives:
At Flat Roofing Cambridge, Felt was the most popular flat roofing material in the area until recently, with garages, extensions, and porches all employing it. However, many more contemporary materials are gaining popularity, which is often regarded as higher-quality flat roofing alternatives. But if you go for this choice, can you expect it to endure? Here are a few things to think about.
Because they don't feel that flat roofs can drain water as effectively as pitched roofs, some homeowners are hesitant to choose one. A competent roofer will make sure drainage is a component of the design and installation, but older flat roofs may begin to malfunction.
Blisters, which can lead to leaks if there is damage such as tears in the roofing, are one of the most common types of leaks. Blistering can begin to appear, which might signal a problem with its membrane. This emphasizes the need for careful selection of materials for your roof and proper installation, since improper installation may result in premature failure.
Felt flat roofs are frequently criticized for their apparent quality because to a shorter guarantee. When compared with contemporary flat roofs, which have a warranty of up to 25 years, felt is generally only guaranteed for 10 years.
However, one of the most crucial things to remember is that a guarantee isn't always an indication of how long the roof will last. It's more like a bare minimum that manufacturers set in which they'll replace your roof should it deteriorate severely before then.
Although there are several excellent felt roofs available, if installed by an experienced roofer, they might last up to 15 or 20 years before requiring replacement. It can be extremely resistant to rips, movement, and dampness thanks to the installation of durable bitumen felt that may be heated and bonded. The felt may include tiny metal fibers for greater waterproofing and durability.
If felt is one of the flat roof options you're thinking about, don't overlook some of the others that are available. EPDM rubber roofing has a highly water-resistant structure and eliminates concerns such as moss development. It's also simple to put up since it's laid cold
GRP fibreglass flat roof is another option for flat roofs that double as decking or a balcony. Some of these materials are guaranteed for at least 20 years and may last up to 40 or 50 years. As a result, most homeowners will only have to install it once in their lifetime.
Cambridge Flat Roofing are happy to work on your flat roof repairs.
Discovering the source of a leak in a flat roof is usually easier than finding one on a sloping roof. Having said that, roof leaks of any kind can be more complicated than they initially seem – especially if you’re thinking of fixing it yourself.
There are many reasons for this, starting with the fact that the spot where you initially notice water entering your interior rooms might not actually be where the leak itself is, since water that penetrates the membrane of your roof can travel across the roof until it reaches a seam in the sheathing/roof deck, skylight or electrical, air-conditioning or plumbing penetration and then manages to drip or seep through to the inside.
If you have any doubts regarding your capabilities, we suggest you contact us and we can help you protect your investment.
Things like a leaky seam, holes or rips caused by a fallen tree branch or similar debris, accidental punctures, or other issues with your PVC roof call us as we're a specialist equipped with all the necessary tools and supplies.
If you detect that your flat roof has been damaged as a result of water entering your property, it's critical to get the problem properly examined and repaired as soon as feasible.
Repairs to your roof will be more expensive if they aren't done quickly. Water-caused damage can rapidly rise when repairs are not made promptly. If structural timbers are kept soaked for a long period of time, they may become weakened. Saturated brickwork and masonry might lead to dampness within the structure, which might necessitate extensive interior decorating work.
When it comes to maintenance, you can expect your flat roofer in Cambridge to do a thorough examination of your flat roof. If required, they will try to prevent additional damage from occurring before proceeding with their repairs.
On a flat roof, the most common weak areas are at the edges and along with the abutment locations. Roof coverings that haven't been taken into account for structural movement can cause leaks as well as defective flashings and pointing.
Roof damage occasionally requires a complete replacement. If this is the case, we'll give you an in-depth analysis of the problems and a firm quotation to have the job done.