Flat roofs have been used in all sectors of the build environment for generations and their benefits of affordability and ease of construction make them an obvious choice in the public sector where budgets can be restricted. The ability to keep the height of a building to a minimum, where a pitched roof may interfere with existing sightlines, makes them popular too.

The relatively simple construction of flat roofs means they are suitable for a wide range of projects, such as domestic extensions,garages, schools, sports centres, community buildings, council offices and leisure centres. They also help maximise space inside the building by allowing the plant room to be positioned on the roof. In addition, other M&E equipment, such as air conditioning and ventilation units, can be positioned on a flat roof, as can solar panels, roof patios or green roof installations.

Although flat roofs provide a wide range of benefits they have, unfairly, gained a reputation for being high maintenance. This is usually due to poor installation or poor maintenance. On the other hand, a well designed,
professionally installed flat roof is easily capable of lasting as long as a pitched roof. In fact, latest GRP flat roof ranges have upto a 40 year guarantee, with minimal maintenance requirements. Many flat roofs, especially those with a felt covering reach the end of their life all too quickly and start causing problems, so local authorities need a low maintenance solution that offers value for money and will stand the test of time. There are a number of reasons why water proof coverings on flat roofs begin to fail, although the most common is damage caused by wind-blown slates and tiles and water blockages.

Leaves during the Autumn can block up rainwater outlets on flat roofs and therefore leave water standing here for long periods, which can result in deterioration of the waterproof membrane over time. Leaf guards are a good idea as they prevent rainwater outlets from blocking up, allowing free flow of water. The issue can worsen when pre-building regulations’ flat roofs are too flat (they should have a cut to fall of at least 1 in 80), so that
water doesn’t pool. Aside from this, some flat roofs can ‘slump’ when the underlying timber or insulation settle over time, again resulting in standing water.

Repair or replace?

When a new flat roof is fitted, one of the main areas of concern is to ensure that the joint between the flat roof and any parapet wall allows for movement. Also, it needs to be
recognised that any slight deflection of the roof could cause a break in the waterproof membrane at the roof/parapet wall junction.

There are various approaches to flat roof repair and refurbishment, which are usually a combination of the waterproof membrane being
damaged or perishing, leaking flashings, inadequate upstands or slumping of the roof surface. However, whilst small repairs can be carried out relatively inexpensively, the integrity of the whole
roof could be compromised – any moisture getting through the membrane can lead to rotting of the timber supporting structure. With social housing providers looking for the long-term, low maintenance option, ‘quick-fix’ repairs are
often not the best solution.

When there are a number of repairs needed, or you are looking for a long term, low maintenance solution, a GRP roof system is often
the best way forward.

This was the starting point for developing our new Topseal Direct Lay roof. We recognised the issue that many flat roof owners face in that they were often burdened with
endless repairs for their roofs, which cost time and money. They also found that this was just a short term solution that put pressure on repairs and maintenance teams often during the already challenging winter period.

We recognised the benefits of a roofing system that could overlay an existing flat roof, which would speed up the process of installation
and take away the inconvenience and waste burden from removing an existing roof. This flat roof we developed can be applied directly to any range of materials, including felt, asphalt, concrete, GRP and
tissue-backed insulation. Our innovative new roof product, Topseal Direct Lay can be cold applied, therefore eliminating the health and safety risks associated with
the use of heat or flames during installation.
Before we officially released the product, we made sure that we secured BBA certification to provide additional reassurance and peace of mind – and it
also comes with a 20 year guarantee. To get around the traditional problems of flat roofs, as a result of poor quality workmanship, we ensure that Topseal Direct Lay is only fitted by our fully trained, approved installers.

So, for local authorities and other social housing providers there now is a real alternative to constant repair and maintenance of flat roofs. The new generation of GRP flat roof systems, such as Topseal Direct Lay, are set to change perceptions over the next few years. These kinds of roofing systems can also be used for
new builds – and with the Government providing funding for 140,000 new homes to be built by 2020-21, a large number of both private and landlord-owner properties could now have the benefits of a flat roof without any of the disadvantages.

For more information about Topseal Direct Lay call 08000 831 094.