Creating the perfect terrace or balcony flat roof

You may already have a balcony or terrace that needs a little TLC. Alternatively, you might be considering utilising an existing flat roof by creating additional outdoor living and entertaining space.

Creating a terrace or balcony out of a flat roof is easier than you would think – as long as you have the right materials. For example, you need to consider the amount of extra weight your flat roof will need to bear. Whether you are opting for patio slabs or decking, it is advisable that you engage the services of a structural engineer to ensure that your flat roof will be able to support this additional load.

Attempting to upgrade a traditional felt flat roof could spell disaster. Felt roof surfaces have a short life span, becoming brittle in the cold and melting in the summer months. Before you know it, you’ll have to dismantle your terrace or balcony to get to the felt in order to repair any leaks.

Instead, we recommend that you install a PVC membrane roofing system before any conversion commences, such as our recommended Sarnafil single-ply membrane. These flat roofing membranes provide superior protection against the elements and if you choose to buy from High-Tech Membrane Roofing, you will enjoy a LIFETIME guarantee.

Replacing your flat roof may be a short term expense but it is far better than the likely possibility of having to dismantle your conversion to repair or replace it in just a few years.

Once your chosen flat roofing system has been installed, you will need to protect the membrane. This is usually in the form of rubber or plastic paving support slabs, which have the extra benefit of allowing water to drain away easily.

Alternatively, you may want to convert your unused flat roof into a roof garden. Again, you will need to gauge any support issues as it is likely that you will require walkway pads and slabs. You will also need to ensure that your home is waterproofed with a flat roofing membrane. You will also need to consider drainage points as well as the sort of roof garden you want. You can lay decking, a green roof or artificial turf.

Please be aware that it is a legal requirement to have a permanent handrail with any flat roof balcony, terrace or garden.

High-Tech Membrane Roofing is one of the UK’s leading installers of high performance single-ply membrane roofing systems. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding flat roof conversions – we will be happy to help.