Flat roofs or traditional roofs – which are better
The type of roof you want to have should be in consideration of the type of building it will be placed on. Commercial buildings can benefit from a flat roof for a number of reasons but it should not be assumed that a traditional roof is the only choice for a residential building. Before deciding between a flat roof and a traditional roof, it is important to know some of the differences that exist between the two.
A flat roof offer many advantages which include being a high performance, cost effective roof as compared to other types on the market today. On major positive point for a roof schedule that has a relatively short time line is that a flat roof can be constructed rather quickly. For a commercial structure that needs to be erected quickly and put to use, this can spell a great way to meet deadlines, keep costs down to a minimum and to have a low maintenance cover that can hold a decorative finish, such as coordination with an advertisement sign.
For most homes, however, the contrasting traditional roof is the preference, particularly with multi-storied designs that bump out into bay window covers and enclosed front porches with ornate railings and eaves. Old Victorian homes may support a flat roof for a front tower and the midsection of the home, but even these areas are typically designed with a traditional roof that peaks and accentuates the overall exterior design.
A traditional roof has some benefits over a flat roof. One of the major benefits is that there are no flat spots for water, snow, ice or dirt to accumulate. Shingles provide an added layer of protection that is also a means of cutting down heating and cooling costs. Traditional roofing also provides storage or living space such as an attic bedroom.
If your budget has some constraints and you need a roof replacement, you may want to consider replacing with a flat roof but this will not work for all roofing conditions. For example, a traditional roof cannot be replaced with a flat roof without destroying the look of the home.
Take the existing roof into consideration. Deciding between a flat or traditional roof may involve a slight upgrade that can make repairs look like new or a new roof give a completely new look to the entire exterior front and sides of the building.
Research both types of roof in terms of the contractors you have access to. Compare prices and the quality of work each contractor you are interested in has done. Find a contractor who specializes in one type of roof or the other and check to see if they will match the price of a lower competitor. This is often a way to get the best of both worlds where quality of workmanship and low price are concerned.
Remember that the type of roof you choose will be on top of your building for many years to come so choose wisely and make your investment count.
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Chicago roof and flat roof. This site for sale! www.chicagoroofleakrepair.com Cyber Smart Business Web Solutions www.cybersmartwebmarketing.com # Hourly and Monthly Webmaster Services # Complete Wordpress Instillation and Set Up Service # Custom Logos # Article Creation # Complete Web Development Services # SEO Services # Web Marketing Management Service # Website Analysis and Consultation Service Please help to answer the question about flat roof contractorWhat would be the cost of replacing a flat roof 35'x35' on a house in East Hampton, NY ?
A section of my home in East Hampton, NY has a flat roof that is 35'x35' square. About 20 years ago a former owner removed the original flat roof that had a slight pitch for water drainage and replaced it with a completely flat roof with no pitch at all thus causing water sit without drainage. Needless to say there are problems with leakage as a result of this poor decision and there have been a number of tar like applications over the years that have placed on the existing roof. I am looking for the most inexpensive way to repair the roof and restore the slight pitch that is needed for proper drainage. Though I want it to be done correctly, I would like to do this in the most inexpensive way possible. What would a ballpark price be on a project like this? Also, I am concerned about having contractors from the Hampton's complete the work as the contractors in the area tend to charge much more for their services then contractors in other areas. I do not care what materials are used as long as the job is done properly to avoid leakage.
Also, if the information helps, the section of the house with the flat roof that I am describing is one story.
Also, would it be more cost effective to replace the flat roof with a traditional pitched roof? What would a ballpark price be for that type of project?
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Lee Lazarus is an experienced online journalist. He has written this article on behalf of LocalQuoter, a home improvement quote comparison site. Compare quotes on <a rel="external nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://secondary” target=”_blank”>www.localquoter.net/upvc_windows.aspx”>secondary double glazing, <a rel="external nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://roofing” target=”_blank”>www.localquoter.net/roofing.aspx”>roofing and driveways.
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March 9th, 2011 | by roofing contractor |
By thegurlupstairs on Jan 11, 2010
Make sure it's in writing as to how they'll charge if water damaged sheeting is found, ie, time and materials, or will you supply the material and they repair. They won't know if there is damage until the roof is exposed.
Absolutely ask for references.
Check the BBB.
Don't hesitate to get more than one estimate.
Find out what kind of roofing material they plan to install…is it good quality or some cheapy stuff? That info should be included in the contract and can be verified at your local lumber yard.
How will the roof be loaded? Is a truck with a boom bringing it in? If so, how will the contractor ensure that your yard won't be hammered.
Who will be responsible for getting rid of the debris? Easier for them to do it…just get it in writing!
Ask that it be in writing that they "sweep" the yard (with a magnet) to get rid of any nails that fall to the ground. Even if they tarp the area, nails bounce
As far as meeting with the foreman, it might not be a bad idea. Good to know beforehand if you'll be able to communicate with him.
Best to you!
By Trey on Jan 11, 2010
It depends entirely on how strong the addition was made. If the roof is just 2×4 studs instead of 2×6 or greater, you have a good chance of problems. And if the waterproofing of the flat surface may break if you try to use it to walk on a lot in all kinds of weather and poke through with chair legs, etc.
The usual solution if the strength is there is to build the "patio" almost like you were making a deck near the ground: a strong sill atfached to the house and pads to rest on the roof and spread the force. Then the waterproofing of the addition stays intact and the deck can be level even if the roof has some slope for drainage.
If the floor of the house is very close to the level of roof, then there isn't really space to do that above. I would suggest getting someone to design it or ask for estimates based on a design being described to you and see how much trouble they think it will be.
By mealking on Jan 13, 2010
A metal roof is not a good idea. Ponding water will leak through the seams even if they are soldered because expansion and contraction will open up the seams. Ponding water will also cause the steel roof to rust prematurely.
A better option is a rubber membrane roof. Warranties as long as 40 years are available. A reputable roofing contractor will make quick work of the roof job and be around for any problems that may develop … in other words, they will be around to take care of any warranty problems.
Good luck with your roofing project.
By starlight on Jan 13, 2010
Definitely a rubber roof requires a great deal let maintenance and will last 15 to 20 years. This will be a true water proof roof system. Paper and tar is old method and will last 7 to 10 years before needing replaced. UV rays effect both but tar faster. Long term Rubber. Short term is moving in 5 years paper and tar.
By bellshouse1 on Jan 14, 2010
You need to check with your local Registrar of Contractors to see if there are any open or previous infraction by the builder. You will also be able to see how long the builder have been in business for (the longer the better). When comparing estimates, you need to make sure you are comparing apples to apples. A $20k spread is huge for a small project so somehow, one of the bids are missing services, whether it is demolition, hauling fees, materials to match existing, etc. If you're putting concrete tiles on the new gable roof, does it happen over a large expanse of windows/sliding door? Any of those builders include additional support on the header and foundation due to the increased load?
Just compare the differences in terms of included scope of work from each builder. By doing so, it may give you a better understanding of the price discrepancies.
By arjzv on Jan 14, 2010
You can do one of two things. Either ask a competitor to come inspect the roof and give you an itemized list of what's wrong with it *just tell them what happened and that you are looking for someone who can show you what's wrong and what needs repaired* or you can contact your insurance company who can set you up with someone who can check it for code. Once you get the documentation showing the lack of work done you can put in writing your complaint and demand it be redone. If they refuse, you have it in writing that you are unhappy with the product and also paperwork showing what damage is done. Take pictures! That way if they DO try to sue you for the money you can have that on your side. They won't get a DIME if you're in the right.
Do NOT pay until all the above has taken place or they can claim you damaged it etc. you wouldn't have paid if you weren't satisfied etc. and you won't get it fixed by them.