Residential Flat Roof Details

Rubber is waterproof and is relatively easy to install.

Residential flat roof details. Flat roofs are always built at a slight incline at least 1 8 inch per foot. Zero ventilation space is required and the construction appears stacked and compact. Flat roofs come in many shapes and sizes which include parapet roofs roof decks and green roofs to name just a few of the options available. Although flat roofs are cheaper to build than pitched roofs they have a shorter life span.

From there the flat roof system you choose will determine the materials you apply. A classic flat roof is either almost completely level or has a very slight pitch of 3 in 12 inches or less. Drawing via buildingregs4plans to put together a warm deck roof it s important that the insulation be positioned above the structural deck the layers that make up the ceiling. Waterproof membrane to prevent water penetrating the structure and interior of the building.

Traditional homes often have sections of flat roof over shed dormers above porches and garages and on balconies. Of course flat roofs are not flat but have a very slight roof pitch of between 1 4 to 1 2 per foot. Just enough slope to drain water but also flat enough to be a problem if not constructed properly. Rubber roofs epdm roofs popular in residential applications.

But flat roofs take a pounding from harsh weather which is why they rarely last as long as a good sloped roof. And their horizontal lines abound in the west and in urban areas. Flat roofs usually come with a 10 to 20 year warranty but can last 25 years if you build the roofs right and maintain them using commonsense rules. Typical details for a warm flat roof u k.

A roof is considered to be flat when it is of a slope of 1 5 o to the horizontal. Underneath the basics flat roofs are usually constructed with a ceiling nailed to joists which support a deck usually wood in residential construction a vapor barrier insulation and a roof board. When framing a flat roof you will need to create a slight incline. These flat roof systems contain one layer of rubber or a rubber type material that is applied without heat.

Some roofs actually slope in several directions ensuring optimal water runoff. You can do this with a foam layer that exactly fits your roof. We love the flexibility of a flat roof for certain design limitations but they have a bit of reputation for leaks and repairs. Most flat roofs are typically not as long lasting or durable as sloped ones because the latter shed snow and rain a lot quicker.

On the plus side. Ultimately a flat roof should play a part in a total architectural composition and has the ability to enhance the aesthetic and practical outcomes of a home. However over the last few decades new and advanced materials have been developed. Pros and cons for flat roof materials all three types of flat roofing cost 250 to 350 per square 100 square feet but prices vary according to region and size of the roof.

Adhesive metal straps or gravel are used to secure the rubber roof systems.