Purchasing a new flat roof can be a time-consuming and expensive process. There are often a number of different factors to consider that could affect your final decision. Here are few points to consider before going ahead with your new flat roof:

Do your research

Depending on the materials used, the installation method and the contractors hired for the job, the longevity of your new flat roof can vary greatly. It’s essential to do your research before you give the go ahead to a hired contractor.

There are a number of contractors out there who are obsessed with making a quick buck and will do anything they can to land the job. It’s important to read through reviews from consumer information sites such as Checkatrade and the like before giving the green light. Further, check out the websites of each contractor and gauge a good understanding who they are, what type of services they offer and what their work looks like.

Most contractors are able to offer you professional, valuable advice on determining which new flat roof option might be a good fit for you. However, it’s best practice to establish some form of understanding on which flat roof type you like the look of and have a firm budget set in mind.

Quality & Longevity

It’s important to note that some materials last a lot longer than others. Take EPDM and GRP roofs for example: They have a lifespan of up to 50 years plus and will maintain their sleek and modern finish for their entire lifetime. If you directly compare EPDM and GRP to traditional felt roofs, there is a whole array of benefits such as cost efficiency, superior aesthetics and increased longevity.

You also have to be aware of the aesthetics of your new flat roof. There is no benefit installing a new flat roof on the cheap and cringing every time you come home from work because it looks ugly. Contemporary flat roof systems such as EPDM and GRP roofs have a much smoother, sleek finish than traditional flat roof systems such as felt. Felt roofs have a lifespan of 10-12 years and over time the roof will begin to crack and blister and there will be a build up of moss and itchen over the surface. However, this isn’t to say that felt roofs are unpopular in the marketplace. Felt flat roofs are often slightly cheaper than newer flat roof systems which of course is a major factor in the buyer’s decision. It’s all about which flat roof option is right for you.

Guarantee

It’s extremely important to note that you are entitled to a set guarantee from the contractor upon installation of a particular product. At R&D Roofing Contractors, we offer a guarantee of 20 years on all EPDM and GRP new flat roofs. There would be nothing worse than waking up one day to find water gushing through your ceiling and knowing that you don’t have a guarantee to fall back on. Do your research on all of the contractors you employ and ensure that you are getting the right level of protection.

Cost

Perhaps, the deciding factor for the majority of people. Cost can vary greatly between different contractors due to levels of quality, different installation methods and different materials used. It’s also important to be able to trust your contractor and establish a good working relationship with them.

Thankfully, at R&D Roofing we have created our very own flat roof quote calculator that provides consumers with the necessary information to generate their own online quotation. Why not take a look today and find out how much your new flat roof will cost?

We hope this gave you some food for thought and makes your decision making process slightly easier.

Good luck

The R&D Team