How Long Does A Flat Roof Last?
Flat roofs are common on commercial buildings because they are cost effective and easier to access for repairs and maintenance than sloped roofs. Some homes have flat roofs for architectural or style purposes.
If your building or home has a flat roof, you may be wondering: how long does a flat roof last? Is it time for maintenance, repair, or replacement? Here’s how long you can expect your flat roof to last and how to get as many years out of it as possible.
Average Lifespan of a Flat Roof
On average, a flat roof can last for 20-30 years. Not all flat roofs will last even 20 years and others may last even longer than 30. It’s difficult to assign a specific number of years to it because the actual lifespan of an individual roof varies due to a variety of factors.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Flat Roof
How many years you get out of your flat roof will depend on the following:
- Maintenance. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of a flat roof by a decade or more. Flat roofs are more susceptible to leaks, which is why they need periodic resealing and patching. It is also important to check that the roof is draining properly and that drains are not blocked by leaves or debris. Low spots where water collects need to be leveled out. A flat roof should be inspected every few months and repaired or cleaned if necessary.
- Quality of construction. One of the biggest factors in the lifespan of a flat roof is the quality of the original installation. If a flat roof is professionally installed by a skilled roofing team, it has the potential to last longer than a roof that was not properly installed.
- Seal coating. A flat roof requires a seal coat to prevent leaks. There are many different types of seal coating, but some are better quality than others. The quality of your seal coating will determine how long your roof lasts and how often it needs to be resealed.
- Weather. The weather in your area will affect the lifespan of your roof. Extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, rain, snow, ice, and hail will all have an impact on your flat roof, potentially wearing it out faster or causing damage.
- Effective drainage. One of the most important factors in the lifespan of a flat roof is proper drainage. Moisture needs to be able to run off and drain away from the house or building. Sitting water will eventually cause low spots, rust, and leaks. As long as the drainage is set up correctly during installation it will usually drain effectively. But drains can occasionally get blocked or clogged causing problems. Regular roof inspection can prevent drainage issues from leading to severe damage.
The Importance of Periodic Maintenance for your Flat Roof
How long does a flat roof last? The equivalent of the amount of effort that is put into its upkeep. A common thread with the above factors is the importance of frequent maintenance. Professional roof maintenance involves a thorough inspection of your roof to identify any potential problems. The sooner a problem is detected, such as pooling water or a blocked drain, the sooner it can be repaired or remedied to prevent further damage. Regular roof maintenance can save you a lot of money and allow you to get the maximum number of years out of your roof.
Weatherguard Roofing Provides Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement for Flat Roofs
If you have a flat roof that needs to be inspected, repaired, or possibly replaced, Weatherguard roofing can help. We can assess the current condition of your roof and provide a recommendation and estimate for repairs or replacement. We also provide regular maintenance and seal coating services for your flat roof to help it last as long as possible. Our products, materials, and workmanship are top quality to ensure success.
Contact us today for a free estimate. We look forward to providing you with quality roofing services.
