Watch the wildlife in your roof garden
Would you like to create more outside space but you’re not sure where and how? Do you have a flat roof? If so, you could soon be enjoying additional outdoor living and entertaining space!
It is far easier than you’d think to convert a flat roof into a terrace or balcony – you just need to have the right materials. For example, what is your existing flat roof made of? If it is constructed of traditional felt, attempting to upgrade it into a terrace or balcony is not recommended. Flat felt roofs have a short life span – many house insurers refuse to cover older felt roofs. Over the years, they are affected by the elements, blistering, cracking and attracting moss and algae. The last thing you want is to construct a beautiful new outside living space, only to find that it needs to be dismantled so that you can access the felt to make repairs.
You will be expecting your flat roof to bear more weight, which means that you must consider the implications of this extra load before building commences. By engaging the expertise of a structural engineer to advise on how your flat roof can support whatever materials you decide to use – patio slabs or decking – you can save yourself a lot of hassle and money further down the line.
What’s the best solution?
It is recommended that you install a uPVC membrane roofing system before you start any conversion. The benefits of this short term initial expense will far outweigh the drawbacks of building on a sub-standard felt roof.
High-Tech Membrane Roofing’s recommended Single-Ply membrane flat roofs provide first class protection against the elements and if you buy through us, you will enjoy a rock solid, no quibble LIFETIME guarantee.
Once you have prepared your conversion with a high quality roofing solution, you will need to protect the membrane by waterproofing it. Usually, this is in the form of plastic or rubber paving support slabs. These slabs have the additional benefit of allowing water to drain away with ease.
Decking or patio slabs?
The majority of people will choose either lightweight patio slabs or timber/composite decking to create a balcony or terrace out of their flat roof. The choice is yours – we’ve seen some beautiful conversions using decking, patio slabs, porcelain tiles and pebble borders.
Considering a roof garden?
Are you thinking of utilising an unused flat roof into a roof garden? Here are our top tips:
• Investigate support issues before construction – will you need walkway pads and slabs?
• Ensure your home remains waterproof by installing a flat roofing membrane
• Consider drainage points
• What sort of roof garden do you want? You could choose a green roof, decking or artificial turf
Whatever outside space you choose to create, please be aware that you are legally required to install a permanent handrail with any flat roof terrace, balcony or garden.
Can we help?
Are you unsure of the next step? High-Tech Membrane Roofing is one of the UK’s leading installers of market-leading, Single-Ply membrane roofing systems. We would be more than happy to offer advice and answer any questions you may have regarding flat roof conversions
