How Long Does a Flat Roof Last?
The average lifespan of a flat roof is anywhere between 25 and 30 years, however specific factors such as the material the flat roof is built out of, the quality of installation and the climate the flat roof is situated within can impact the roof’s lifespan.
Throughout this article, we will discuss the average lifespan of each type of flat roof and also some factors you should consider which can impact and influence how long your flat roof lasts for.
In addition to this, we will also cover some of the most important tips and tricks to consider when attempting to get the most out of your flat roof such as ensuring regular maintenance and repair.
Looking to replace or repair your flat roof? Here at A L King Roofing, we are the leading roofing company in Wiltshire and surrounding areas. Call us on 01225 705918.
How Durable Are Flat Roofs?
Flat roofing is one of the most common types of roofs in properties not only in the UK but across the world. A flat roof is a roof that is fully flat or almost level. That being said, flat roofs are actually laid to a degree in order to ensure water runs off of them.
Although these types of roofs are commonly found in warm countries, many buildings in the UK incorporate a flat roof in the UK as they are seen as a cheaper alternative to traditional pitched roofs.
That being said a flat roof typically only lasts for around 25 – 30 years with some exceptions depending on certain factors such as the material it is built with and the climate in which the flat roof is built in.
Factors That Could Reduce the Lifespan of Your Flat Roof
Although the lifespan of a flat roof is typically around 25 – 30 years in the UK, there are many factors that can help speed up the deterioration of your flat roof. Therefore, it is important to be aware of these factors and make sure you attempt to mitigate any risk to ensure that your flat roof continues to protect your roof even after the average lifespan. To protect your roof, it is always best to ensure regular maintenance and repair your flat roof when required.
It is also important to be aware of the factors which can contribute to the decline of your flat roof. These factors include:
Materials
The material of your flat roof plays a major influence on the lifespan of the roof itself. For example, some roofing materials can be more susceptible to the natural elements whereas other roofing materials may not be. The best material for a flat roof is usually one that protects the building against the natural elements whilst being coast effective and long lasting.
For this reason, it is important to make sure you know what type of material your roof is made out of, in order to ensure you know how long your roof will typically last. As a general rule of thumb, an EPDM rubber roof can last the longest with an average life expectancy of 50 years if it is installed correctly. On the other hand, a multi-layered roof can last for up to 15-20 years with a single-ply flat roof sitting in the middle, lasting up to 30 years on average.
Roofing material is one of the most important factors in influencing the life expectancy of your roof and depending on which type of flat roof you have installed, the lifespan of your roof will differ. However, it is not the only reason why your flat roof lifespan can fluctuate.
Weather
Weather is one of the major factors which can influence the longevity of your flat roof. Although the sun isn’t too much of an issue in the UK, those rare instances where we do experience sun can lead to cracking in the flat roof tiles which if not treated can lead to you needing to replace your entire roof.
Strong winds can also damage your flat roof, causing issues with your flat roof tiles which may need to be replaced if damaged.
One of the biggest factors which contribute to the damage to your flat roof is the inevitable rainfall we experience in the UK each year. If your flat roof is not watertight, rainwater can infiltrate inside the structure of the flat roof. This can be a serious issue, which may require you to replace the entire roof with a new flat roof.
Maintenance
Maintenance and care are important in anything you do and when it comes to your flat roof that is no different. Even if your flat roof is installed perfectly, it will still require regular maintenance in order to ensure that it is in order and in perfect condition.
Failure to do this can lead to decay, water pooling and eventually more damage that will require repairs or even a complete roof replacement. For this reason, it will be far more cost-effective to perform regular maintenance every six months on your flat roof to ensure there are no potential faults than having to get it repaired when the worst does happen and actual damage does occur.
Location of your property
In addition to this, the location of your property also plays a major factor in the lifespan of your flat roof. For example, if you live near large trees or shrubbery that droops over your roof, it is more likely to suffer from damages during harsh weather compared to roofs that aren’t near large trees and vegetation. In addition to this, if you live in an area that is more open to the wind or in an area that has more snowfall or rainfall; the life expectancy of your flat roof will be negatively affected.
Ventilation
As well as all the factors mentioned, the ventilation of your roof is one of the most important factors that contribute to the longevity of your roof. Ensuring your flat roof has the correct ventilation and insulation will ensure that an even temperature is maintained all year round.
A poorly ventilated flat roof can lead to a build-up of heat and trap moisture inside your roof which will cause bubbling and damage to your flat roof that will require repair or even replacing!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lifespan of your flat roof can last up to around 25 – 30 years in the UK however this can be extended or limited to its surroundings. From factors, we have discussed, such as weather, maintenance, age, location and ventilation all contribute to the detriment of your flat roof and the quality of it as the years pass.
With that being said if you ensure proper maintenance with regular inspections and repairs, you can ensure your flat roof extends its lifespan and offers reliable protection for your property against the natural elements.
If you live in the Melksham, Bath or Bristol area, here at A L King Roofing, we provide a reliable, affordable and high-quality roof repair service. Originally starting out in 1979, A L King Roofing has over 40 years of experience in the roofing industry from repairs and new roof installations.
Furthermore, we even provide a selection of high-quality roofing materials to help repair or replace your flat roof which you can find in our roofing merchants centre in Melksham. Speak to a member of the team on 01225 705918 and discuss all of your flat roofing requirements.