Flat Roof Section

Traditional homes often have sections of flat roof over shed dormers above porches and garages and on balconies.

Flat roof section. The slope of a roof is properly known as its pitch and flat roofs have up to approximately 10. This flat roof system is still used in some residential applications because of its affordability and fire resistance. A flat roof is a roof which is almost level in contrast to the many types of sloped roofs.

And their horizontal lines abound in the west and in urban areas. Most often used in commercial and industrial applications this flat roof system contains layers of waterproof membrane such as a treated fiberglass basemat tar and gravel to seal the flat roof surface. Just enough slope to drain water but also flat enough to be a problem if not constructed properly.

The two classic types of flat roof designs are the warm flat roof and the cold flat roof. From there the flat roof system you choose will determine the materials you apply. Flat roofs should always have a slight pitch for quick drainage of rainwater but sunken areas that create puddles can appear from time to time.

Flat roofs can be used to create box shapes cantilevered into daring overhangs or can be planted to create usable vegetated gardens. We love the flexibility of a flat roof for certain design limitations but they have a bit of reputation for leaks and repairs. When these sunken areas appear it s important to examine the problem carefully and determine if it is related to structural damage.

Of course flat roofs are not flat but have a very slight roof pitch of between 1 4 to 1 2 per foot. Typical soffits on today s houses include the flat area under the eaves where vents provide attic ventilation the lower perimeter of a drop ceiling and the ceiling that is mounted to the underside of a staircase. There are design differences for each type.

Flat roofs are an ancient form mostly used in arid climates and allow the roof space to be used as a living space or a living roof. But flat roofs take a pounding from harsh weather which is why they rarely last as long as a good sloped roof. 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.