Why Do Commercial Buildings Have Flat Roofs in Reading?

As a commercial roofing company in Reading, A1 Roofing Reading understands why flat roofs are so popular in the commercial space. In this article, we will explore the benefits of flat roofs, the materials used to construct them, and why commercial buildings tend to have flat roofs over sloped ones.

Flat Roofs: A Commercial Roofing Solution

A flat roof is, as the name suggests, a roof that is built flat. Unlike sloped roofs, flat roofs have a minimal slope, generally around 10 degrees. Due to the minimal slope, flat roofs require less space and are often less expensive than sloped roofs. That's why flat roofs are more popular in the commercial space, where cost and space are a significant concern in the construction process.

Benefits of Flat Roofs

Flat roofs offer several advantages over sloped roofs, which make them a popular choice for commercial buildings. Here are some of the main benefits of flat roofs:

Easy and Safe Inspection

One of the most significant advantages of flat roofs is that they are easy and safe to inspect. The lack of slope means that there is no need for climbing ladders, which is dangerous and time-consuming. Additionally, the flat surface allows for easy movement across the roof, which makes inspections more efficient.

Versatile

Flat roofs are versatile and can be used to accommodate several features like solar panels, air conditioning units, and roof gardens. The flat surface makes installation and maintenance of these features easy, which is not possible with sloped roofs.

Cost-Effective

Flat roofs tend to cost less than sloped roofs due to the lower material and labor costs. Additionally, flat roofs require less space, which means less material is needed to construct them.

Durability

Flat roofs tend to be more durable than sloped roofs due to their construction. Flat roofs are usually constructed in one or two pieces, which reduces the risk of leaks and other damage.

More Space

Flat roofs offer more usable space than sloped roofs. This extra space can be utilized for various purposes, like storage or additional office space.

Materials Used in Flat Roofs

Flat roofs can be constructed using several materials, including:

Asphalt

Asphalt is a popular choice for flat roofs due to its affordability and durability. Asphalt is easy to install and repair, which makes it an ideal option for commercial buildings.

EPDM

EPDM is a synthetic rubber material that is used to construct flat roofs. EPDM is resistant to damage from ultraviolet rays and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.

PVC

PVC is a plastic material that is used to construct flat roofs. PVC is durable and resistant to chemicals, making it suitable for commercial buildings.

TPO

TPO is a membrane material made of plastic and rubber polymers that are used to construct flat roofs. TPO is lightweight and easy to install, making it an ideal option for commercial buildings.

Why Do Commercial Buildings in Reading Have Flat Roofs?

In Reading, like other parts of the South East of England, flat roofs are a popular choice for commercial buildings. The primary reasons for this are cost and space. Due to the high cost of construction in the area, flat roofs offer a cost-effective solution that can save builders money without sacrificing quality.

Additionally, the flat surface of flat roofs provides more space than sloped roofs, which is a significant advantage in commercial buildings where space is often at a premium.

Conclusion

As a commercial roofing company in Reading, A1 Roofing Reading understands the importance of flat roofs in the commercial space. Flat roofs offer several advantages over sloped roofs, including cost, space, and versatility. Flat roofs can be constructed using several materials, including asphalt, EPDM, PVC, and TPO.

In Reading, flat roofs are a popular choice for commercial buildings due to the high cost of construction and the need for extra space. If you are in need of a flat roof for your commercial building in Reading, contact A1 Roofing Reading at 0118 449 2361 or email us at [email protected]. Visit our website, a1-roofing-reading.co.uk, for more information.