Can a Flat Roof be Repaired or Should it be Replaced
When faced with a leaking or damaged flat roof, many property owners find themselves at a crossroads: should they opt for repairs or commit to a full replacement? At Avant Garde Roofing, we have helped countless clients reach this decision. It may seem that the repair option is a better choice simply because it is cheaper, but the right answer is more complicated and multisided.
Analysing the Condition of a Flat Roof
Taking measures is crucial, as every choice must stem from a full evaluation. In flat roofs, specialists should consider the following:
Age of the roof: Most flat roofing systems last between 15-20 years depending on the materials used. Even if current issues seem minor, a roof approaching the end of its expected lifespan might be better replaced.
Extent of damage: Is the issue limited to one region, or does the roof have several problem areas? A patchy problem is often symptomatic of severe structural issues.
Water ingress history: Have you dealt with leaks multiple times even after attempting repairs? This behaviour indicates repetitive issues which repairs alone can never fix.
Structural integrity: Areas of sagging, heavy blistering, or large splits in the membranes are problems that require more than superficial interventions.
When Repairs Make Sense
Repairs are best undertaken when certain conditions are satisfied, including these listed below:
1. Damage is confined to a relatively small and specific region - If an area is affected and the problems are confined to a small region, which is typically less than 25% of the roof surface area, then targeted repairs tend to be both economical and efficient.
2. There aren’t significant complications or risks regarding the age of the roof – Flat roofs installed within the last decade are likely to possess significant remaining service life and thus make repairs a feasible approach.
3. The supporting structure remains strong – If the insulation and decking that sit beneath the membrane are dry and undamaged, addressing only the top layer makes sense.
Indications that ‘Replacement’ is the Wiser Choice
In some cases, trying to attempt repairs is more expensive than replacing the item. Think of replacing the item when the following occurs:
1. Ranging repairs have failed to rectify the issues - If you are enduring the irritation of recurring repairs leaking for unending periods of time, your roof is likely much more damaged than what a patch would fix.
2. The damage is deep-rooted - When more than a quarter of your roof shows signs of deterioration, the outcome of several repairs versus replacement begins to tip the scales in favour of the latter.
3. The roof has maintenance problems - Sagging decking, waterlogged insulation or showing stems of rot mean the problems go more than the covering itself.
4. You are looking to improve building alterations on add-ons - If you intend to look at loft conversions to add space or enhanced thermal efficiency, replacement permits better use of insulation values in addition to meeting the current building control laws.
Evaluating Costs: Short-term and Long-term Analysis
While repairs tend to have less upfront costs, in the long run they may incur more costs than what is expected. A repeat cycle of repairs can quickly surpass the cost of replacement, along with the additional disruption and possible harm to the interior of the property.
Modern flat roofing systems perform considerably better than materials from a decade ago. The use of EPDM rubber, GRP fiberglass, and high-performance modified bitumen systems weatherproof flat roofs better and extend their lifespan.
Take note of the following when evaluating costs:
- The life expectancy of the current roof in place.
- The total cost incurred from possible future repairs.
- Anticipated energy savings from newer insulation in a new system.
- The value of need for comfort from a new installation and warranty claim with a fresh installation.
Understanding What Needs to Be Done
Seeking an expert for evaluation ensures the best choices are made. You can trust that we will provide an honest evaluation at Avant Garde Roofing. Clients are never steered towards more profitable options for us. There are times, for example, when we’ve advised clients that their roof is repairable while other contractors insisted on a full replacement.
Your Approach Needs Some Artistry
Whether it is repairs or replacements needed, we make sure to provide:
- Clear-cut explanations and full surveys without obligations.
- Work of high standards and with the best materials in the market.
- Proper guarantees and warranties on work completed.
- Follow-up maintenance guidance and additional support.
With over two decades of flat roofing experience throughout the UK, we've seen virtually every roofing scenario imaginable. This experience allows us to provide tailored solutions rather than one-size-fits-all approaches.
The right decision ultimately depends on your specific circumstances, budget, and long-term plans for your property. By consulting with experienced professionals who prioritise honest advice over sales, you'll gain the confidence to make the choice that truly serves your interests.
If you're facing flat roof concerns and weighing your options, contact our team for a detailed assessment and straightforward advice.