Replacing a Flat Roof? Here’s What You Need to Consider

There’s no denying that flat roofs bring unique benefits to commercial and residential buildings alike. But with so many different materials and structural options to choose from, a roof replacement is a significant undertaking. It can entail modifying a roof entirely to suit the new needs and material. If you’re considering replacing a flat roof, here are some factors to consider before making a final choice on the design.

Slope and drainage

One of the most common issues with flat roofs is a lack of proper drainage. With a minimal slope and improper installation, water can pool in uneven areas and deteriorate the roof membrane. Pooling water can also host bacteria or insect infestations and freeze over winter.

When changing out flat roofing, it’s essential to consider the slope and drainage requirements of the new design. In some cases, there might be more drainage options needed to accommodate the new roof that might not be worth the effort or cost.

Structural deck load

Some flat roof designs can only provide waterproofing and insulation, while others can be walked on or hold heavy items. When considering roofing materials and types, pay close attention to their PSF (pounds per square foot) measurement or how much weight they can bear.

The roof deck also consists of the structural elements supporting it, as these are often built with the roof’s usage in mind. When changing the roof type, the changes ultimately bolster the underlying structure to allow for additional weight. Overlaying a flat roof or adding more ballast, such as gravel, is not as simple as placing new shingles over the old ones as is done with a sloped roof. A detailed analysis of the roof structure is needed to ensure the building’s stability.

Repair vs. replacement

One of the first decisions when dealing with an old roof is the financial implications of a replacement against repairs. The most common way to calculate the cost of a repair or replacement is to consider the expected lifetime of the end product. If a new roof will cost twice as much as a repair, but last five times as long, it’s easy to deduce it’s a better long-term financial option to install a new roof.

However, the financial investment becomes a more pressing concern when you decide to replace the roof because of the significant initial investment. If you’re considering repairs only, calculate how much maintenance the roof will require over the next few years before it will inevitably need a complete replacement.

Insulation

All materials and roofing types have different insulation properties, measured by their R-value. This value goes up with better insulators. A roof with a better R-value might cost more but pay itself over time via reduced energy and temperature costs over its lifespan.

Wind resistance

The edges of flat roofs are notoriously sensitive to wind shearing, and a strong wind can lift entire roof sections and cause irreparable damage. When debating whether to install a new roof, it might be better to play it safe and choose a design beyond the recommended standard.

For best results with a new flat roof design, we highly recommend that you contact professional roof designers and contracting services. Their technicians will provide accurate inspections and surveys of the current roof and propose suitable design alterations to accommodate your needs.

Roof X Inc. offers commercial and residential roofing for customers in Brandon, Pensacola, Tampa, and surrounding areas. We install and repair metal, tile, shingle, TPO, and more. Gutters, ventilation, and insulation are also available. Family-owned-and-operated Call us today at (844) 877-6639.