Flat Roofing Types and Costs | Advantages and Dis-Advantages of Different Types | Felt and PVC to Zinc and Copper, Flat Roof Systems

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Flat roofing has come along way in the last then years since the days of them just being a cheap alternative to a pitch roof and nearly always leaking.  That has changed now and thanks to the development of better materials.  

We live in a climate of consistent damp and wet and all roofing systems need to be able to cope with that certainty not to mention driving winds and unpredictable conditions.  Our wind driven rain will test any roofer worth his salt.  “Modern materials, design and ventilation have completely changed flat roofing”

Flat roofs which should not not be totally flat as its needs to give a small fall in order to direct water using 1 degree fall to direct water to the gutter.  Flat roofs are popular usually on rear or side extensions avoiding the need for an apex or pitch.  With some buildings depending on where the windows are giving better views and vista.  

Dublin Flat roofers

Our roofing team are highly trained roofers in dublin. We know that poor drainage is usually the number one cause of leaks in flat roofs, because the water is more likely to collect on top. Regular monitoring is required for structures with flat roofs to prevent puddles from forming since the weight of the water will eventually lead to structural damage. Bitumen or Felt is a common material used on flat roofs and a contractor will need to repair any cracks caused by drainage issues. To seal cracks on a flat roof, the cost can be approximately €500 to €1,200.

Our roofing costs are based on material and location of leak

The material your flat roof is made of will have a direct impact on where you’re likely to find a leak. When hiring a contractor, it’s important to advise the professional of the material to confirm they have experience repairing this type of roof.

• Metal roofing systems. They will commonly have leaks due to puncture holes from debris or gaps formed by rust. Loose or missing screws and fasteners are another reason a metal roof may leak. Metal roofs are very durable and can last decades, but the cost to repair them can range from €500 to €800.
•  Tiles. Roofs using tiles can make it difficult to locate the source of the leak because of the many different patterns that rainwater flows off of the tiles. Damaged tiles are common sources of roof leaks and it costs around €150 to €500 replace the defective tiles.
• Clay tiles. When used on a roof, they can become cracked and damaged. The valley on a clay roof is also prone to collecting debris and contributing to roof leaks. The average cost to repair a clay tile roof with new sections is between €250 and €750.
• Solar tiles. Solar tiles are used as a replacement for your existing roof tiles. Solar tiles are a newly developed product, so any issues with a roof leaking would need to be directed to the installer. Solar tiles are typically protected under a 25-year warranty, so any costs to repair them will usually be covered in the purchase price.
• Composite roof. A composite roof uses a few materials for installation including tar and slate. Leaks in these types of roofs can be caused by the tiles, joints, trim pieces, seals or flashing. The final cost to repair a composite type of roof depends on what exact materials were used for installation.
• Wood roof. The tiles or valleys on a wood roof may need repairing to fix any leaks. The cost to repair a wood roof with new tiles is about €600 to €900.
• Slate roof. Slate roof repairs for a leak are typically needed due to broken tiles or damaged flashing. The average cost to replace slate tiles is €150 to €250 while flashing repairs may cost upwards of €800.

Torch-on-Felt

Flat Roof Repair and Replace Dublin

Torch-on felt is what covers most flat roofs and has come a long way in the last ten years. This is the go-to option, cheap and readily available, it’s usually applied in two or three layers. They can either have a granular finish or a smooth finish  and this can be then painted with solar reflective paint. It usually comes with a materials guarantee of 10-15 years and costs about €55per sqm.

PVC

Another alternative is PVC, this is a single ply membrane of usually grey-coloured rubber is fixed to your timber base, making labour costs cheaper than the installation of a two-ply material. When its laid well it can looks very good, it usually costs 20-30 per cent more than a torch-on system and will come with guarantees of around 12-15 years.

Fibre Glass

Then there’s fibreglass flat roofing, its effectiveness is still a bit undecided but has a reputation of being durable. Its inflexible nature is not suitable for some situations, but advances in materials in recent years have made fibreglass roofing more reliable and very durable.  Costs are around €70 per sq m on domestic-sized roofs and should be able to last for about 15-20 years.

Zinc Roofing

Zinc is growing in popularity and one of our favourites, it’s a slick, smooth, contemporary look that goes on in panels with a standing seam joining each panel.  Its a very modern and durable look impressing the neighbours and visitors.

It is naturally resistant to corrosion, needs minimal to no maintenance due to its natural, self-protecting patina, and is extremely long lasting – 100 years-plus. It can come in a few grey, dark and silvery colours and will maintain its colour throughout its life.

Costs are about €120 per metre by the time up-stands, drips and fascias are taken into account. It is a nice advantage to be able to do your fascias, soffits and rainwater goods in the same material, giving nice continuity and consistency.  

Copper Roofing

Copper has been the more traditional way to go. It is one of the few metals that occur naturally rather than needing to be extracted from ore, thus making it one of the earliest metals to be used.

The covering of choice for well-to-do buildings of the past. The gorgeous green patina it develops after years of oxidation has long been coveted by architects.

A truly beautiful natural product but unfortunately it comes with a truly heavy price tag. Expect to pay in the region of €130 per metre. Like zinc, it is extremely long lasting, around 100 years in this country.

Lead Roofing

Lead, another beautiful and traditional product, is hugely malleable, and mostly used on small areas, over bay windows for example. Cost would be similar to copper at €130 per metre and comes with a material guarantee of 50 years.

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