In busy towns, cities, and even suburbs, space can come at a premium. Balancing the places we have to relax, with the areas that serve a function, can be a tricky task. Many of us often find ourselves wondering: if only I had a bit more space.
If you’ve found yourself dreaming of some extra breathing room, then the flat roof just might present an answer. As well as being inexpensive, easy to maintain, and long-lasting, a flat roof can give you an incredible opportunity to expand the living areas.
A flat roof can easily become a green space or a balcony with just a few adjustments. If you’re thinking of converting a flat roof, or are interested in a flat roof for an extension, then this guide is here to answer all your questions.
Can I use my flat roof as a balcony?
Yes, it is often possible to use a flat roof as a balcony. Doing so provides you with an amazing place to relax, and an opportunity to utilize as much space as possible. Flat roofs are built to be strong and durable, and they often catch the sun while avoiding the wind. With just a few small adjustments, the flat roof can soon become the perfect seating area.
Many of us have often experienced the moment when our flat roof is bathed in golden sunshine, while the rest of the house sits in the dark. Or when busy family afternoons have us longing for a moment of quiet that can’t be found inside. In those times, we might find our eyes wandering to the flat roof.
Although it may not be the most obvious place for expansion, the flat roof may be perfect for increasing your space. A flat roof can be used as a balcony, sitting area, or even a place for a barbecue.
If you do intend to convert your flat roof, the first step is determining if any planning permissions are required. Planning permission will ensure the privacy of any close neighbours. It’s also necessary to evaluate the overall strength of the house and roof supports.
Next, it’s important to determine if the flat roof is strong enough to hold a balcony. For an older flat roof, repairs may be necessary to ensure it can support any furniture, as well as the weight of people sitting on the roof.
When you’re sure the roof is strong enough, contractors should be hired to improve waterproofing, add supports, and potentially lay non-slip materials. Once this is done, you have your balcony. This is quicker and more cost-effective than building a balcony, and an incredible way to use the space.
There can be another unusual advantage to making use of your flat roof: it keeps you aware of any damage. The standard pitched roof can mostly sit out of mind, only occasionally requiring maintenance. The flat roof needs a little more care to keep it at top quality. It’s easy enough to check out a flat roof using a ladder, but it’s even easier if you sit on your flat roof regularly.
How much weight will a flat roof support?
A flat roof can support a considerable amount of weight. They’re designed to support the weight of workers, to withhold snow and rain, and to be accessible for maintenance. However, it’s difficult to accurately guess the exact weight a flat roof will hold.
Flat roofs are exposed to the elements, so even if you aren’t planning on sitting on yours, they still need to be strong and durable. It’s also necessary to be able to walk across flat roofs, in order to complete any maintenance needed.
However, this weight is occasional, rather than sustained. A flat roof may be able to support the weight of the occasional snowfall, but won’t be strong enough for furniture. Before converting your flat roof to a seating space, it may be necessary to reinforce the supports.
A newly installed flat roof will be stronger than an older flat roof. This is because the building materials have improved, and there’s a greater quality of workmanship. If you have an older flat roof, it’s likely that it will need replacing – or upgrading – before it’s suitable for sitting.
If you’re curious about how much weight your flat roof can support, contact a qualified inspector. They will be able to give you a good idea of how much weight the existing roof can hold, and what upgrades may be necessary.
Can I sit on my flat roof?
Yes, you probably can sit on your flat roof. It’s necessary to be able to access the flat roof to carry out maintenance and inspection. However, it may not be designed to sustain regular usage. If you intend to use your flat roof as a sitting area, you must first get planning permission, and discuss any support needed with a contractor.
Can I build a garden on my flat roof?
A flat roof can be used to build a garden. These are known as green roofs, and they’re a great way to add more plant life to your home. A green roof can use planting containers, or a layer of cover for growth.
There are two types of flat roof gardens: intensive and extensive. An intensive garden uses container pots and raised beds, to create a greater depth for planting. By using lightweight containers with ample drainage, the flat roof can be home to many areas for growing.
An extensive garden is slightly different. Rather than using a deep area for planting, an extensive roof garden uses a thinner layer of inorganic material, covered with a layer of growing medium.
A flat roof garden is an incredible way to add green space to the home.
If you’re interested in converting your flat roof to a sitting area, balcony, or garden, contact Sure Seal Flat Roofing. They can provide safe, strong, and cost-effective flat roofing for your home.
