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Do Flat Roofs Always Leak? An Arizona Roofer Answers

Are you eager for the simplicity and price effectiveness of a flat roof but are weary of leakage on those rainy Arizona nights during monsoon season?

If so, then you may have fallen victim to the rumor that a flat roof equates to a leaky roof.

However, this is simply not the case.

Let’s break down the facts and misconceptions of flat roofs.

Why is a Flat Roof More Likely to Leak?

The main reason that flat roofs are more likely to leak is that they are less able to shed water.

In other words, they do not allow elements like water to slide off them as easily as steeply sloped roofs do.

Although a flat roof can give a slightly increased chance of leakage, it is important to note the many benefits of having a flat roof.

The fact is, even though your roof looks flat from most perspectives, there really isn’t such a thing as an entirely flat roof. All roofs are sloped at least a few degrees to avoid the allowance of sitting puddles of water.

This is why they are also known as low slope roofs.

Poor Construction is Often the Real Culprit

Even though the inability to shed water could lead to potential leakage, more often than not, it is human error that is the real culprit.

In this day and age, money can be tight so many consumers cut corners with their budget and hire a roofer who may also cut corners in his work.

The fact is, even if your contractor does their best, the smallest mistake on a flat roof can lead to future leakage.

Money may be tight, but the last place you should take it out on is your roof because it is one of the most important components of your home.

Regardless of the workmanship, the fact of the matter is that almost every roof has the potential to leak at one point or another, especially if you live in an area of heavy rainfall. So leakage is not strictly an issue with flat roofs.

The reality is that a flat roof can often last up to 30 years without issue if it is properly installed and maintained. The key words here being “properly installed”.

If you have heard that flat roofs are more susceptible to leakage than sloped roofs, you are not the first. The fact is that even though these roofs can get a bad rep, it is rarely the fault of the roof itself.

Benefits of a Flat Roof

Not only are flat roofs as capable as their steeper counterparts but they also carry a significant number of advantages as well.

Save money on heating and cooling costs

One of the benefits is the savings in heating and cooling costs that it provides.

Many don’t think of this fact, but a steeped roof adds extra space to a structure and the more space there is, the more your heating and cooling systems need to work to fill all of this space with heat or air conditioning. Flat roofs help to control this extra air with slightly less space.

Save money on upfront costs and repairs

Flat roofs are typically less expensive than steep slope roofs, mostly because flat roofs use less material than their sloped counterparts.

Flat roofs are also much easier to install so labor costs are lessened and they are easier to access for maintenance and repairs.

They give you room to build upon it

Flat roofs also have many functional benefits as well because they give you more room to build upon your house. If you want to create a roof garden or install solar panels, the process is much easier to implement on a flat surface.

How you intend to use your roof should be a significant influence on which model you choose.

Leave Your Flat Roof to the Pros

The professionals at Lyons Roofing have been installing and repairing low slope roofs for years and take the time to ensure a proper build that is properly secured and waterproofed.

We will also leave you with the knowledge you need to care properly for and maintain your roof for years to come.

If you live in the Tucson or Phoenix metropolitan areas, give us a call at 602-276-5515 or contact us online for a consultation today.