A flat roof will typically last anywhere between 15 and 30 years, depending on the quality of installation and how well it’s looked after. What’s more, some materials can last a bit longer than others, meaning it’s best to shop around before you make a decision.
To help you decide whether a flat roof is right for you, as well as what material to go for, we’ll look at how long a flat roof lasts, how materials affect longevity, and how to look after it.
How Long Can I Expect My Flat Roof to Last?
You can expect your flat roof to last between 10 and 20 years. The more modern flat roof materials can last a bit longer, typically around 20 to 35 years.
Older flat roof installation processes use felt as the standard material. While it’s perfectly fine for projects like garden sheds or insulating other roof materials, it doesn’t always last quite as long as others.
Most flat roofs now use plastic, rubber, or glass for more longevity. You can also go for torch-on-felt, which is felt modified with bitumen – a stronger asphalt, reinforced with fibre glass.
How Long Do Different Flat Roof Materials Last?
When you’re looking to get a flat roof, there’s typically a set of materials you can explore to complete the job – rubber, glass reinforced plastic, torch-on-felt, PVC, or liquid waterproofing.
All of these materials are great for use on a flat roof project, offering longevity and strength to the structure. However, some do last a bit longer than others.
So, to help you understand exactly how long a flat roof lasts according to the material type, we’ve created a handy table below that breaks it all down.
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How Long Will a Flat Roof Last? |
|
|
Material |
Lifespan |
|
Rubber |
25 to 30 years |
|
Glass Reinforced Plastic |
25 to 40 years |
|
Torch-On-Felt |
15 to 25 years |
|
PVC |
20 to 30 years |
|
Liquid Waterproofing |
15 to 30 years |
While this is an estimate of how long a flat roof should last, you may be able to get longer with proper installation and by making sure you stay on top of maintenance.
How to Look After Your Flat Roof
Looking after your flat roof keeps it in tip-top condition for as long as possible, helping you get the most value for your money. But what’s the best way to do it? Well, we’ve got some tips.
Look for Debris
One of the most important steps to looking after a flat roof is to regularly check for bits of debris.
Leaves, branches, dirt, or rubbish can blow in the wind and land on your roof, potentially causing serious damage over time. As such, you need to make sure you’re checking for any items that have landed on your roof, cleaning it off where possible.
It’s best to have a look at least once a quarter to ensure debris isn’t staying up there for too long, causing unnecessary damage.
EXPERT TIP: After a storm, excess bits or rubbish, dirt, foliage, or branches can wind up on your roof. We suggest checking your flat roof for storm damage after torrential rain or gale-force winds.
Clean Regularly
Cleaning your flat roof is essential, not only to extend its lifespan but also to prevent damage.
When it rains, excess water settles on your flat roof, leading to ponding. While this may seem harmless, pooled water can actually cause structural overload, speeding up degradation of the material and encouraging the growth of mould and algae.
Use a soft brush with a warm water and detergent mix to gently remove the algae and mould. For the water, you can use a sponge to soak up the smaller puddles, while larger ones may need professional support to remove.
EXPERT TIP: We know cleaning a flat roof isn’t always a simple task. If you’re struggling to keep up with cleaning your flat roof, get in touch with us for our roof cleaning services.
Clear the Gutter
A blocked gutter can cause water to collect, moss or algae growth, and lead to serious damage to the gutter itself and the flat roof. As such, it’s best to clear it out to avoid issues down the line.
To clear your flat roof gutter, simply remove the debris from the strainer, making sure you get as much out as possible. Next, clear out the gutter bowl before flushing out the pipes by pushing water through them with your garden hose.
For tougher blocks in the gutter, you can use an auger, otherwise known as a plumbing snake. Simply push and turn to break up the larger blockages before using your hose to flush them out.
Trim Overhanging Trees
If you have any trees growing around your flat roof, it’s best to keep them trimmed to prevent them from overhanging the roof.
Trimming overhanging trees is essential flat roof maintenance, as it helps prevent branches and leaves from cluttering your roof or clogging your gutter. Plus, trees leave your roof in shade, which can stop the tiles from drying properly after it’s rained.
Giving any nearby trees a quick trim when you’re tidying up the rest of the garden helps you stay on top of the task.
Fix Leaks Quickly
A leak on your flat roof can lead to pooling water, which we now know degrades the materials. So, if you spot a leak, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible.
You can fix smaller leaks temporarily to prevent the situation from getting worse while you wait for repair help. Liquid sealants or patches are best here; just make sure you clean the surface as much as possible before applying to ensure the best fit.
Larger leaks will require a professional to fix them permanently and properly. Noticed a large leak in your flat roof? Don’t worry! Give us a call to discuss our flat roof repair services.
How Often Do Flat Roofs Need Replacing?
While flat roofs are designed to last a long time, eventually they will need replacing to make sure they’re performing at their best.
Generally, you’ll only need to replace it towards the end of its lifespan. However, if general maintenance isn’t kept on top of, you may need to replace it sooner. There are a few signs to look out for that indicate it may be time to switch out the old for the new, including:
- Dips or sagging on the roof
- Blisters, cracks, bubbles, or splits on the surface
- Damage to seals, vents, or pipes
- Excessive mould growth
- Persistent leaks or pooled water
- Water damage on the interior side of the roof
Replacing an old and faulty flat roof may seem costly, but it can actually save you money in the long run, as you’ll spend less on repairs.
Come to Us for Expert Flat Roof Repair or Replacement
Here at Leakproof Roofing, we offer professional flat roof repair and replacement services across Liverpool and the wider Merseyside area.
With over 20 years of experience, we’re ready to repair your roof no matter what the damage. Looking to replace your flat roof? No problem, as we’re qualified to install brand new flat roofs as well.
Get in touch with us today for a free consultation. You can call us on 0151 374 0415 or send an email to info@leakproofroofing.co.uk. Alternatively, fill out our booking form for a call back from a member of our team.