March 3, 2025 - Fixmyroof

Types of Hip Roofs and Their Advantages

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

The basic hip roof is a pitched roof with four sloping sides. However, that’s not the only option available. There are other types of hip roofs. This article will introduce you to six. Each of these six is unique in design and best suited to different types of buildings. So, keep reading to find the right type of flat roof for your building. The Most Common Types of Hip Roofs As promised, here are six types of hip roofs. Standard hip Roof This is the most basic, simple and popular type of hip roof. It’s the type I described in the introduction. The standard, aka simple hip roof, has four sloping sides that meet at the ridge. This type of hip roof is perfect for all sorts of buildings, including contemporary and traditional. Usually, the building is rectangular. Pyramid hip roof A pyramid hip roof usually has four symmetrical sloping sides. This is usually because the building is square. Such a building is usually a cottage, small church or bungalow, gazebo or pavilion. This type of hip roof is also called a pavilion roof. Hip and Valley roof A hip and valley roof comprises two hip roofs with a valley between them. Usually, this is because of house extensions. The secondary hip roof is for the extension. A hip and valley roof can also be used for L-shaped buildings. Cross hip roof A cross hip roof comprises multiple hip roofs crossing each other, usually at right angles. Each wing (of the cross hip roof) is for a different wing of the building. Therefore, this type of hip roof is mainly for L- and T-shaped buildings. Half hip roof A half hip roof is a hybrid with gables. Usually, the gable roof is on top of the hip. This improves headroom (because of the gables) while maintaining sturdiness (because of the hip). This type of hip roof is popular in urban homes, rural cottages and Dutch colonial architecture. It is also known as the Dutch gable. Mansard Roof This is another hybrid type of hip roof. A mansard roof comprises two hipped roofs, one sitting on the other. The lower roof usually has a steeper slope. This design also increases headroom without making the room less sturdy or stable. Mansard roofs are great for urban, contemporary and French architecture. The Main Advantages of Hip Roofs Here are six advantages of hip roofs. Durability Hip roofs are one of the strongest and most durable types of roofs. They can last up to 50 years. Weather resistance Hip roofs are great for locations with severe weather. Those sloping sides protect them from heavy winds, rainfall and snow loads. A self-bracing structure All four sides brace each other. The result is a sturdy, strong roof that doesn’t need additional support structures. Good drainage Water drains along the sloping sides. It can’t settle on the roof. Plus, you can install gutters on all sides, further improving drainage. Curb appeal Hip roofs make buildings look larger, elegant and eye-catching. Even the standard hip roof has a lot of curb appeal. Imagine how the more interesting types (of hip roofs) can beautify your home. Ample loft space Hip roofs create ample loft space that you can use as a storage, living or office space. If you want maximum loft space, consider the half hip or mansard types of hip roofs. What to Consider When Choosing a Hip Roof Each type of hip roof has strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, one type might be perfect for your house, while another isn’t. To choose the right hip roof, consider these five factors. Architectural style What is the design of your building? The roof should complement and fit that design. For example, if you have an L- or T-shaped building, you can use a cross hip roof. The roof should also fit the general aesthetics of the property. Your budget How much will the roof cost? Consider the design and the roofing material. If you choose a complex hip roof and high-quality roofing material, costs will be higher. Weather conditions of your area Hip roofs generally do well in severe weather. However, some types of hip roofs perform better than others. For example, hip and valley hip roofs have valleys that could leak. Cross hip roofs have the same problem. Maintenance and repairs Complex roof designs are usually more high-maintenance and costlier to repair. They also usually cost more to install. So, if you want to reduce installation and maintenance costs, choose a simple type of hip roof. Living space If you want better headroom in the loft, choose mansard and half hip roofs. How to Maintain a Hip Roof Here are four things you can do to care for a hip roof. Clean the roof and gutters regularly Clear debris regularly. Clean the gutters, too, to avoid drainage issues. Inspect the roof regularly This will allow you to spot problems early. When you do find a problem, fix it as soon as possible. Inspect every part of the roof, including the drains, seams and flashings. Aside from regular inspection, you should also inspect your hip roof after bad weather. Prune overhanging branches Branches can fall on the roof, damaging it. They can also shed leaves on the roof. Prune overhanging branches to avoid this. Hire a specialist to inspect your room twice a year The specialist will notice things that you can’t. They can also help with roof maintenance and repairs. Summary The main types of hip roofs are standard, pyramid, hip and valley, cross hip, half hip and mansard roofs. They all have four sloping sides. However, they also have design qualities that make them unique. So, one type of hip roof could be perfect for you while another is not. It’s crucial to choose the right roof. It’s even more crucial to hire a qualified and experienced roof specialist to install or repair your roof. So, let me tell you about us. Fixmyroof is a roofing company … Read more

Types of Gable Roofs: A Guide to Roof Shapes & Roof Types

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

Gable roofs are versatile and easy to customise. So, you can easily find the right type of gable roof for any building. That’s one of the reasons gable roofs are so popular. However, one type of gable roof may not be ideal for a certain building or location, while another could be the perfect fit. You need to know what’s what. That’s the only way to choose the right roof for your home. That’s why I created this article on gable roof types. There are five main types. Let’s talk about them. Front Gable Roof For this type of gable roof, the sloping sides run along the side of the house. So, the gable ends (aka the flat sides) are at the front and back of the building. Sometimes, the eaves (of the gable end) extend over the front door of the house, providing shade. Front gable roofs are usually used for Victorian, Tudor, Cape Cod, farmhouses, and craftsmen houses. Side Gable Roof The side gable roof is the opposite of the front gable roof. Here, the sloping sides are at the front and back of the house. Therefore, the gable ends are at the sides of the house. That’s where this gable roof type gets its name. The gable ends are on the side. Hence, the name. Side gable roof types are usually used for ranches and A-frame homes. Box Gable Roof This type of side gable roof extends beyond the roofline of the house. The roof overhangs the house on all four sides. With a regular side gable, there are no overhangs. The roof is trimmed perfectly to the roofline of the building. Box gable roofs are perfect for Victorian and traditional homes. Cross Gable Roof The cross gable roof has intersecting gables. Obviously, this means the roof must have more than one gable. Usually, there is a primary gable/roofline and then a minor one(s). However, the rooflines can also be of the same size. This gable roof type is perfect for structurally complex homes. It also suits Tudor and Gothic architecture. Dutch Gable Roof This gable roof type is a hybrid of gable and hip roofs. In other words, it has both gable and hip roofs. The hip roof is usually the main roof. The gable roof is just a secondary roof built on the hip roof. A Dutch gable roof is complex to design and build. However, it adds aesthetic value and living space (in the loft) to a house. Dutch gable roofs are usually used for structurally complex and suburban houses. It is also common in home extensions. Conclusion Once again, the five main types of gable roofs are front, side, box, cross and Dutch gable roofs. They all have two sloping sides and two flat (gable) ends. However, they also have unique design elements that differentiates them. We have talked about those differences. I have also listed the type of house that suits each type of gable. So, look for your house on the list. Then, try to learn more about the gable roof type (or any other roof type) that you are interested in. Find out its pros and cons. Also, find out how it compares and differs from other roof types. Fixmyroof can help with that. We have many articles on other types of roofs. You can also contact me directly to learn more about roofs. I am a roof specialist with experience in all sorts of roofing solutions. So, reach out for any sort of roof installation and repairs.

Dormer Roof Advantages and Disadvantages

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

Dormer roofs add a certain elegance to a house. They are also great for making lofts come alive. So, if you are considering building a dormer roof for your home, I have only one piece of advice – do it. This article will define what a dormer roof is, before exploring the advantages and disadvantages of dormer roofs. What is a Dormer Roof? A dormer roof is a pitched roof with a protruding window(s). This window is called the dormer window. It increases living space and allows more light and natural ventilation to enter the loft. The dormer roof can be sloping on all four sides (like a hip roof), on only two sides (like a gable roof), flat or have only one slope. In other words, there are several types of dormer roofs. The protruding window is the key defining factor. Finally, a dormer roof can have more than one window. Now, let’s talk about dormer roof pros and cons. Dormer Roof Pros Here are five dormer roof advantages. Curb Appeal A dormer roof will make your house charming and elegant. Your neighbours will become jealous. However, it’s not just about curb appeal. The market value of your house will also increase. Abundance of Natural Light What a way to add more natural light to your loft. It also reduces energy bills. This is one of our favourite dormer roof advantages. Natural ventilation The dormer window will also improve natural ventilation and airflow within your loft. It improves temperature regulation, too. You can open the dormer window(s) to let in fresh air or close it to keep out the cold. Living space The dormer window will turn your loft into the perfect bedroom or office. How? By adding natural light, ventilation and a nice vice. It also increases headroom and living space. Fire escape/emergency exit A dormer roof adds one more safety feature to your home. The dormer window can also serve as an emergency fire escape. Dormer Roof Cons Here are four dormer roof disadvantages. Cost Dormer roofs are relatively expensive. They cost more than standard flat, gable and hip roofs. These price differences are mainly due to supply needs and design complexities. Maintenance Dormer roofs are relatively high maintenance. This is mainly due to the window. It’s not as strong as the rest of the roof. So, it is a weak point prone to wind and snow damage. Valley Leaks The valleys are another weak point. A roof valley is the meeting point between two different roof sections. A dormer roof has two sections: the main roof and the roof of the protruding dormer window(s). Valleys are a major weakness of any roof that has them. They are prone to leaks. However, this is usually caused by poor installation. That’s why you need a reliable and experienced roofer. Still, this is one of the biggest dormer roof disadvantages. Planning permission Dormer roofs are permitted developments. However, there are rules. So, sometimes, you may need planning permission for a dormer window. Contact FixMyRoof today for specialist roof repair Those are the most important dormer roof pros and cons. In my expert opinion, the pros win. Plus, a good roofer knows how to work around those cons. For example, at Fixmyroof, we pay extra attention to roof valleys. Therefore, they won’t leak. Cost and maintenance needs are different beasts entirely. Good roofs cost money and maintenance is crucial. Still, there are ways to save money and make your life easier. So, reach out to Fixmyroof. Let our roofing experts build or repair your dormer roof. We are here to provide you with all sorts of roofing solutions.

What Is A Dormer Roof?

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

Dormer roofs are very stylish and unique. They are so unique that some people don’t even think of them as roofs. Technically, those people are right. A dormer roof is actually a roof extension. It can be installed on all sorts of pitched roofs. Either way, the dormer roof is deeply entrenched in the UK’s culture. It has been around since the time of the Tudors. It remains popular and breathtaking even today. So, you are right to consider it for your home. As a roofing expert, I can help you with this. This article will explain what a dormer roof is, then cover the benefits and types of dormer roofs. Finally, it will tell you whether you need or don’t need planning permission to build a dormer roof. What is a Dormer Roof? A dormer roof is a window extension built into a pitched roof. People build dormers to add living space, ventilation, and natural light to their lofts. However, a dormer roof is not just functional. It also adds a lot of curb appeal to a building. Basically, a dormer roof is a window built into a roof. Sometimes, that’s the original design of the roof and house. Other times, the dormer is an extension that was added later. What are the Different Types of Dormer Roofs? There are different types of dormer roofs. Each of them has unique characteristics and benefits. Here are some of the most common types: Gable Dormer This type of dormer has a gable roof. It has one flat (gable) end that forms a triangle with the top of the dormer window. The two sloping sides connect at the ridge of the dormer roof. The gable dormer is very popular amongst homeowners. It is sometimes called the dog-house dormer because it resembles a dog house. Hip Dormer A hipped dormer has a hip roof. All three sides are sloping and connected at the roof’s ridge. This design is usually built for houses with hip roofs. This way, the dormer matches the main roof. Flat Dormer A Flat dormer has a flat roof. The main roof itself could also be flat or pitched. The flat dormer is common in smaller extensions. Shed Dormer The entire roof of a shed dormer is a single slope. This type of dormer roof is commonly used for larger extensions and flat roofs. The Benefits of a Dormer Roof Here are four incredible benefits of installing a dormer roof. Additional living space Dormer roofs provide extra space in the attic. They are perfect for creating additional space for storage, living or work. Natural light Dormer roofs allow natural light into the lofts. Without windows, the loft can only rely on artificial light. With dormer windows, natural light can enter the loft. Improved ventilation The dormer windows also allow natural ventilation to enter the loft. This improves air quality and reduces dampness. Increased property value A dormer roof will increase the market value of your property. Do I Need Planning Permission for a Dormer Roof? Most times, you don’t need planning permission to build a dormer roof. This is because dormers are allowed as permitted developments. However, there are conditions. Here they are: If the dormer roof doesn’t meet these requirements, you need planning permission. You can get it from local authorities. The application process is sometimes stressful and time-consuming. However, you don’t have to do it yourself. Your roofer can handle this and other paperwork on your behalf. They can also offer lots of helpful roofing tips. Conclusion A dormer roof could be a great addition to your home. It adds additional space, ventilation and natural light. It also improves property value. Plus, there are a variety of design options to choose from. Maybe that’s why dormer windows have always been popular among homeowners. Installation is a little complicated. There are also regulatory requirements. So, make sure you hire a skilled and experienced roofer. Fortunately, you are already at Fixmyroof. We specialise in roofing solutions. That includes the installation and repair of hip, flat, gable and dormer roofs.

Hip Roof Advantages and Disadvantages

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

Hip roofs are extremely popular, but they are not perfect. However, their (hip roof) advantages outweigh their disadvantages. That’s why more and more people keep choosing them for their buildings. Still, it’s important to understand what you are getting into. That’s what I always tell our clients. Read about hip roofs. Learn as much as you can before choosing it for your home. What Is a Hip Roof? In its simplest form, a hip roof is a pitched roof that is sloping on all sides. There will be variations. For example, a half-hipped roof is a hybrid with a gable, while a mansard roof is basically one hip roof sitting on another. Other types of hip roofs are standard, pyramid and cross hip roofs. The size and pitch of the roof can also vary as required. However, one thing is constant. All four sides are sloping. That’s the primary characteristic of a hip roof. Now that you know what a hip roof looks like, let’s move on to the main focus of this blog post. Let’s discuss hip roof pros and cons. Advantages of Hip Roofs Here are six amazing hip roof advantages that you need to know. Durable and sturdy Hip roofs are the most sturdy and durable type of roof. Flat and gable roofs don’t even stand a chance. So, if sturdiness and durability are your primary objective, install a hip roof. Ability to withstand severe weather Because of their strength and sturdiness, hip roofs are the best choice for areas with severe weather. So, if your area has strong wind, rain and snow, install a hip roof. There are two reasons that make hip roofs perfect for severe weather. The first is the lack of flat sides. Flat vertical sides catch the wind. Sloping sides don’t. Flat horizontal surfaces allow snow and water to build up. Sloping sides don’t. The second reason is the self-bracing nature of hip roofs. That’s the next hip roof advantage on this list. A self-bracing structure A hip roof is designed to support itself. That’s what makes it so sturdy and strong. Therefore, you don’t have to spend money on extra support. That’s not the case for gable roofs. Good drainage quality Because of the sloping sides, water, snow and debris can’t settle on a hip roof. You can also add gutters on all four sides of the roof. Therefore, drainage is pretty much perfect. Aesthetic appeal A hip roof makes a building look elegant, larger and interesting. It also feels more welcoming because we expect homes to have pitched roofs. Design versatility Hip roofs fit in well with all sorts of houses. So, whether your property is Victorian, Edwardian or contemporary, you can build a hipped roof. That’s more than enough pros. So, let’s move on to the cons of hip roofs. Disadvantages of Hip Roofs As stated earlier, hip roofs are not perfect. They have weaknesses. Here are three hip roof disadvantages. Costly Hip roofs are more expensive than their flat and gable counterparts. This is mainly due to design complexity and supply needs. It takes skill to build a hip roof. You also need a higher quantity of materials. So, I don’t recommend hip roofs for people on a budget. Propensity to leak Compared to gable roofs, hip roofs are more prone to leaks. This is because hip roofs have more parts. There are more fasteners and seams. Therefore, there are more weak points that could leak. Reduced headroom in the loft Here is the final main disadvantage of hip roofs. The sloping sides affect the headroom inside the attic. Flat roofs provide the most headroom in an attic. Gable roofs also have headroom issues, but not as much as hip roofs. Headroom is a general problem among pitched roofs. Get Help from Roofing Experts at Fixmyroof Now you know the main advantages and disadvantages of hip roofs. As you can see, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Plus, a skilled roofer can work around those cons. Take Fixmyroof as an example. Hip roofs are one of the most common choices among our clients. Yet, they never have issues. That’s because they chose us. We are experts with several years of experience in the roofing industry. That’s the final and most important advice that I have for you. Hire experts to build or repair your hip roof. We volunteer ourselves for the role, so hire us to build and repair your hip roof.

What Is a Hip Roof?

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

Hip roofs are one of the three main types of roofing solutions that we use in the UK. They are sturdy, aesthetically pleasing, versatile and good with drainage. That’s why so many people choose them. That’s why you are on the internet, trying to learn about hip roofs. I will tell you everything you need to know in this article. This includes vital information like types, advantages and disadvantages of hip roofs. I will even tell you how hip roofs compare to flat and gable roofs, the other two most common roofing solutions. What Is a Hip Roof? A hip roof is a roof with four sloping sides. The slopes rise from the base of the roof (at the top of the wall) and intersect at the ridge. This is what the standard hip roof looks like. However, there are other versions. We will discuss five different types of hip roofs in this article. They are all slightly different from each other. However, the sloping sides are universal. All the sides of a hip roof are inclined, not flat. Types of Hip Roof Here are the five types of hip roofs. Standard or simple Hip Roof This is the basic type of hipped roof. It’s what people imagine when trying to describe what a hip roof looks like. So, some people also call this the traditional hip roof. The standard/simple Hip roof has four sloped sides. All four sides connect at the ridge. This type of hip roof is usually used for rectangular buildings. On the short sides, the roof looks like a triangle. On the long sides, it looks like a polygon. Pyramid hip roof The major difference between a pyramid and a standard hip roof is the shape of the building involved. The latter is used for rectangular buildings, while the former is used for square buildings. So, that’s what a pyramid hip roof is? It is a hipped roof on a square building. Because all four sides are equal, the roof looks like a pyramid. This is where the name comes from. Some people also call it the pavilion hip roof. A pyramid hip roof looks like a triangle on all four sides. Cross hip roof This type of hipped roof has two different wings/sections. Consider an L-shaped building as an example. It needs a roof that has two different wings. These two wings will cross each other at some point. That’s when you have a cross-hip roof. That’s where the name comes from. It means two or more hip roofs crossing each other. The cross hip roof Is also known as the hip and valley roof. Half hip roof This type of hip roof also has a gable on it. Actually, that’s exactly what this hip roof looks like. It is like a hipped roof with a gable roof sitting on it. It’s a hybrid of the hip and the gable roofs. The half hip roof is also known as the Dutch gable roof. Mansard Roof The mansard hip roof looks like one hipped roof sitting on another. The upper roof is usually steeper than the lower one. So, there are two different levels of steepness. What Are the Benefits of a Hip Roof? Here are four main benefits of hipped roofs. Good drainage Because all the sides are sloping, water can drain off the roof. Snow and debris can’t build up either. Plus, you can add a gutter to all four sides of the roof. Sturdy and stable A Hip roof is very sturdy and secure. The structure can support itself. You also don’t have to worry about wind because the roof doesn’t have a flat side. Versatile design You can use a hip roof for most types of houses. From Victorian to classical and modern buildings, hipped roofs suit them all. Aesthetic appeal A hip roof is elegant and eye-catching. It will increase the aesthetic appeal and property value of your home. What Are the Disadvantages of a Hip Roof? Here are three main disadvantages of hip roofs Relatively expensive A hip roof is more expensive than the two other options available. Flat roofs are the cheapest, while gable roofs are also very affordable. Complicated to build The structure is relatively more complex than that of a gable roof. It needs skilled labour and more work hours. Material costs are also higher. Leaks This is mainly a problem for poorly installed and maintained roofs. However, it’s still something to keep in mind. That is why you need a roof specialist like Fix my roof. A shoddy job will cost you more money in the long run. So, hire the best. Conclusion Once again, a hip roof has four sloping sides. That’s its major characteristic. It has many benefits, including sturdiness, drainage, snow load, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. There are disadvantages, too. After all, nothing is perfect. Either way, a well-installed hip roof is an incredible addition to any property. So, let’s talk about how Fixmyroof can help you build one. We can also hire us to repair your current roof.

How Long Does A Flat Roof Last?

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

The main weakness of flat roofs is durability. They just aren’t as durable as their gable and hip counterparts. On average, a flat roof lasts for about 10 to 50 years. However, this depends on the material, quality of installation and maintenance of the roof. Weather conditions and other environmental factors also matter. My main goal is to tell you how long a flat roof lasts. However, I can’t leave you with that information alone. So, I will also show you how to make your flat roof last longer and how to know if it’s time for roof replacement. Let’s get started. How Many Years Does a Flat Roof Last? Flat roofs last for an average of 10 to 50 years. Remember that this depends on certain factors. We’ll discuss them in the next section. At the end of this lifespan, you must replace the roof with another. However, if something happens earlier than expected, your warranty may cover repairs or replacement. There are terms and conditions, though. So, you should read the manufacturer’s terms and discuss the warranty with your roofer. The roofer and manufacturer can also tell you how long the flat roof will last. Factors That Determine How Long a Flat Roof Will Last Here are the five factors that affect the lifespan of a flat roof. Roofing Materials Here is a quick breakdown of each type of flat roof material. In other words, felt roofs have the shortest life span. If you want a long-lasting flat roof, choose EPDM. You should also consider aesthetics and price when choosing a material for a flat roof. Weather conditions of the location Weather affects the lifespan of a flat roof. Heat and cold can cause the roofing material to stretch and shrink, which could cause shifts, leaks and cracks. Heavy rainfall can cause water pooling and leaks, making the roof buckle and rot. All these affect the lifespan of the roof. So, if you are in an area with adverse weather, the flat roof won’t last as long (compared to an area with moderate weather). The amount of weight on the roof Here are two great ways to take advantage of the unique qualities of a flat roof. Firstly, you could install HVAC units on the roof, thereby saving space. Secondly, you could use the roof as a rooftop garden or sitting area. There is just a problem. Both options put some strain on the roof. Therefore, they affect how long the roof will last. Quality of installation If you use a good installer like Fixmyroof, your flat roof will last longer. It’s that simple. There are many things that an amateur roofer may not know. For example, many don’t know that a flat roof isn’t actually flat. There should be a slight slope for drainage reasons. Secondly, weight distribution is important when installing HVAC units. It will reduce the stress on the roof. Maintenance When you maintain a flat roof properly, it will last longer. This also applies to other types of roofs and most things in life. Proper maintenance is crucial. So, later in this article, I will tell you how to maintain and care for a flat roof. Signs That You Need to Replace a Flat Roof The signs are easy to notice. You just have to know what to look for. Here are five indicators that a flat roof needs replacement Persistent Leaks Leaks happen and can be repaired. However, if a flat roof leaks persistently and constantly needs repairs, there is only one solution. It is time for roof replacement. Water pooling You should never allow water to pool on your flat roof. It will damage the roof, causing it to leak, rot and sag. Sometimes, water pooling is caused by heavy rainfall and drainage issues. Other times, it’s caused by issues with the roof itself. Sagging and blistering Most of these problems are connected. For example, pooling becomes more frequent when a flat roof starts sagging. Conversely, water pooling also causes the roof to sag. So, once a flat roof starts deteriorating, you will notice more issues. Therefore, the only solution is roof replacement. Blistering is when water or air gets under the roof’s outer layer. This lifts that outer layer, exposing the rest of the roof to the mercy of Mother Nature. Holes, Splitters and cracks All three show that the integrity of the roof has been compromised. They also encourage more problems. Curling, shrinking and lifting These three usually happen around the edges of the roof. They are probably due to the weight and heat the roof is subjected to. For example, heat and cold can cause the roofing material to expand and contrast. Over time, this can cause the roof to shift, shrink and curl. It will also come loose at the seams. How Often Should You Replace a Flat Roof? You should replace a flat roof every 10 to 50 years. That’s how long the average flat roof lasts. Remember that it depends on the material, installation quality, maintenance and strain on the flat roof. So, you only need to replace an old and deteriorating flat roof. Watch out for the warning signs that we discussed earlier. How to Make a Flat Roof Last Long Here are a few ways to increase the lifespan of any flat roof. Hire a professional roofer It’s always better to hire a professional. The resulting roof will last longer and save you a lot of stress and money. Fortunately, Fixmyroof is only a DM away. Our roofing experts are available to build or repair your flat roof. Clean and maintain your flat roof properly The major culprits are algae, pools of water and debris. They can all damage a flat roof. They also affect aesthetics. So, you should never let them build up on your roof. Sure, it will happen sometimes. For example, heavy rain can cause pooling. Act quickly. Clean the roof before the water gets time to do damage. Clean … Read more

What Is A Flat Roof?

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

Flat roofs are one of the three most common types of roofs. They are affordable, space-efficient, low-maintenance and great for urban areas. They are also sleek and modern. Do you want to know more? Then, keep reading because this article will cover the basics. It will tell you what a flat roof is, explore the tips and discuss the pros and cons. What is a Flat Roof? A flat roof is a type of roof that is level (aka flat) instead of pitched and inclined. However, no flat roof is not totally flat. There is a slight inclination that allows water to run off. What Are The Types of Flat Roofs? There are different types of flat roofs. Each of them possesses unique characteristics and benefits. Here are some of the most common types: Cold Roofs A cold roof is a flat roof with insulation between the joists. This is in contrast to warm roofs, which have their insulation placed above each separate roof surface. Cold roofs allow free circulation of air. However, this may allow cold air to enter the roofing area, which is not insulated. Cold roofs are mostly used for residential buildings. Warm Roofs Warm roofs are designed to keep the building thermally insulated. They are a lot more thermally efficient. Warm roofs have insulation placed above the roof deck, creating a warm and dry space. Warm roofs are mostly used for commercial buildings. Inverted Roofs Inverted roofs have insulation placed on the structural deck and waterproofing layer. This design provides excellent thermal performance. The waterproofing layer further protects the roof from wear and tear caused by solar radiation. There is just one problem. It’s often difficult to locate defects on an inverted roof. Hybrid Roofs Hybrid roofs are a combination of the other different types. Here is how a hybrid of the cold and warm roof would be. Insulation would be laid under the surface, while a small area will be left for ventilation. This way, there is no need for a thick outer layer. Hybrid roofs are effective and safe. What Are the Pros and Cons of Flat Roofs? Here are three pros and three cons of flat roofs Pros of flat roofs Flat roofs give you premium loft space. There is also room for rooftop gardens or decks. You can also install solar panels and HVAC units on it. Flat roofs are easy to maintain and repair. Compared to their pitched counterparts, flat roofs are low maintenance. You can handle many of the maintenance and repair tasks yourself. They are way more affordable than gable and hip roofs. Cons of flat roofs Drainage is poor. So, there may be issues of water pooling, which will eventually cause the roof to deteriorate and leak. This is the big advantage of pitched roofs. Because of their sloped sides, drainage is easier. Flat roofs absorb and lose heat too easily. Therefore, the temperature within the house will fluctuate more easily. For example, the house will easily get hot in the summer. Conversely, it will also easily get cold in winter. This will affect heating costs. Flat roofs don’t last as long as gable and hip roofs. The average flat roof will only last for about 10 to 50 years. Felt roofs have the shortest life span, while EPDM roofs are the most durable. However, the latter is also more expensive. Conclusion Flat roofs are also affordable, low-maintenance and space-efficient. The main types are cold, warm, inverted and hybrid roofs. They all have their own unique design. They also have their pros and cons. Once again, flat roofs are not totally flat. They have a slight slope to allow water to run off. However, their apparent flatness has a lot of benefits. For example, you can install a roof garden or deck. You can’t do this with a pitched roof. On the other hand, flat roofs also have weaknesses. A flat roof has poorer drainage, temperature regulation and life span. Still, there are enough advantages to overshadow these cons. That’s why flat roofs are still relatively common. Plus, if you hire roofing experts like Fixmyroof, you won’t have to worry about much. We are highly trained and experienced in building, repairing and replacing flat roofs.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Flat Roof?

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

It costs about £1,000 to £6,000 to replace a flat roof. However, this depends on the size, type, location and accessibility of the roof. So, the answer to this question is a little complicated. Still, I will share some estimates with you. I will also discuss everything we usually tell clients who hire Fixmyroof for flat roof replacement. I will tell you: Roof replacements are normal. Even gable and hip roofs need to be replaced at some point. So, this topic doesn’t make flat roofs less cost-effective and ideal for your home or office. Anyways, let’s talk about flat roof replacement costs. Let’s discuss everything you need to know about the process. How Much Does a Flat Roof Replacement Cost? On average, a replacement flat roof costs £1,400 to £6,000. This usually adds up to around £45 to £140 per square metre. Again, the amount depends on the type, size, location and accessibility of the flat roof. The roof type is one of the most important cost factors. Here are some examples. About 55% to 70% of the money goes to supplies. The rest will cover labour and waste removal. Either way, these estimates should be enough to get you a replacement flat roof from Fixmyroof (us) or any of our competitors. There will be exceptions. So, contact us or another qualified roofer to know exactly how much it will cost to replace a particular flat roof. To give an accurate quote, the roofer must inspect your roof and know your choice of roofing material. Ask for a full breakdown. Some roofers don’t include VAT or waste removal costs in their main quote. They may also not include the cost of removing the old roof. So, get a full breakdown of the quote to avoid misunderstandings. Factors Affecting the Cost of a Flat Roof Here are the six factors that determine flat roof costs. Type of flat roof Earlier, I mentioned four types of flat roofs, namely single-ply membrane, liquid, green and felt. These are just the main types. Both single membrane and liquid roofs can be divided into more types. However, that’s a conversation for later. So, for now, let’s focus on the main types of flat roofs. Felt flat roofs are the cheapest, while liquid roofs are the most expensive. Installation mode also matters. A flat roof can be warm or cold. In warm roofs, insulation is installed above the roof. In cold roofs, insulation is installed between the roof’s layers. Warm flat roofs cost more. Size of the flat roof Size is another big factor that affects flat roof replacement costs. A bigger roof will cost more. Fortunately, it’s easy to get estimates. Simply multiply the size of your roof (in square metres) by the cost of the type of flat roof you want. For example, you need £1,350 to £2,100 for a felt flat roof of 30 square metres. Your Location It’s mainly about the standard of living in your area. Southern UK and big urban cities have a higher standard of living. Therefore, flat roof replacement costs might be higher. For Northern UK and rural areas, costs will be lower. Accessibility Flat roofs are generally accessible and easy to work with. However, there could be issues. For example, the building could be very tall. There might also be a structure or object that can disrupt or delay the project. Any of these could affect flat roof costs. Let’s use building/roof height as an example. Scaffolding is usually needed to replace a roof. The taller the building is, the taller the scaffolding needed. Scaffolding hire alone can increase flat roof replacement costs by up to £1,500. Waste removal We’ve talked about this earlier. Remember that some roofers may not include waste removal costs in their quotes. There is also the cost of disposing of the old roof. So, don’t forget to ask your roofer for a written cost breakdown. Waste removal alone costs about £100 to £250. Additional costs These happen on the average home improvement project. For example, the roof’s frame may need repairs, and the gutters may need cleaning. Either way, it will affect the cost of replacing the flat roof. Here are three common additional costs of flat roof replacement. Types of Flat Roofs There are many types of flat roofs. So, I will only tell you about the main four. I will also tell you how much each one costs. Single-ply membrane flat roof This type of flat roof is usually made from EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) or (PVC) polyvinyl chloride. Essentially, they are synthetic rubber roofs. Single-ply membrane roofs are durable, water-resistant, heat-resistant, lightweight and eco-friendly. They are also easy to install and suitable for all roofing situations. There are some weaknesses. Single-ply membrane roofs fade over time and break down under heavy foot traffic and weather. Plus, design choices are limited. The average single-ply membrane flat roof costs £70 to £100 per square metre. Felt flat roof replacement cost This is the most affordable type of flat roof. Felt flat roofs cost £45 to £70 per square metre. Felt is cheap and relatively easy to install and replace. It is also low-maintenance. There is just the problem of durability. Felt roofs are not as durable as the others. They don’t last as long. They also can’t survive extreme weather conditions. Plus, repairs will make the roof patchy, ruining aesthetics. Liquid Flat Roof Replacement Cost Liquid flat roofs are usually acrylic, bitumen or fibreglass. They are durable, lightweight, waterproof and great for surfaces of all shapes and levels of evenness. They are also easy to repair. On the other hand, professional installation is crucial. A liquid roof is also high-maintenance and prone to slips, punctures and sun damage. The average liquid flat roof costs £80 to £140 per square metre. Green flat roofs A green flat roof is also often called a living roof. To build one, you install a growing medium. Then, plant on it. … Read more

Gable Roof Advantages and Disadvantages

March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by fixmyroof

The gable roof is arguably the most popular type in the UK and the rest of the Western world. However, it’s not perfect. Like any other type of roof, it has pros and cons. So, read this article before choosing a gable roof for your office or home. After all, it is crucial to choose the right roof. The safety of your building depends on it. What Is a Gable Roof? A gable roof has two sloping sides and two flat sides. The flat sides are called the gable end of the roof. When you are at either of the flat sides, a gable roof looks like a triangle. The two sloping sides form the vertical sides of the triangle. The base of the roof, usually the top of the wall, forms the base of the triangle. Gable Roof Pros Here are the advantages of gable roofs. Affordable and easy to build Gable roof installation is fast and relatively easy. This is because the design is simple and most roofers use prefabricated materials. You can reduce costs further by using affordable materials or installing the gable roof yourself. Strong and classy Gable roofs are sturdy and durable. They are also very classy and aesthetically pleasing. It’s rare to find this level of affordability, reliability and elegance. That’s why gable roofs are such a great value for money. Good drainage Water, debris and snow can’t settle on a gable roof. Water, especially, will flow right down the sloping sides. So, you don’t have to worry that water or any other sediment will build up on your roof. In other words, gable roofs have good drainage qualities. A large storage space With a gable roof, you get a large loft space that you can use for storage. Obviously, you have to brace the base (of the roof) to make the loft safe. Good ventilation Gable roofs have a large surface area. This is good for ventilation and natural lighting. The gable ends are also perfect for windows. A larger surface area increases the exchange of air and heat between the building and its surroundings. However, this is both a gable roof advantage and disadvantage. We will discuss the disadvantages later. Gable Roof Cons Here are five disadvantages of gable roofs. Vulnerable to wind The pitched shape of a gable roof makes it vulnerable to wind damage. Wind can peel, damage, rip or lift the roof. So, I don’t recommend using a gable roof in windy areas. The steeper the pitch of the roof, the more vulnerable it is. Gable roofs with extended eaves (aka overhangs) are also more wind-prone. Needs repairs more often Wind damage is a problem. So, you might constantly need to refit lifted areas and repair damaged singles. Other times, you may have to replace certain parts of the roof. Reinforcing the roof will increase the cost You can reinforce a gable roof to increase wind resistance and load-bearing capacity. Doing this helps against wind shear and snow load. However, it also increases the cost of building the gable roof. The loft has less headroom Therefore, there will be issues if you want to turn the loft into an extra living space. You probably won’t mind the low ceilings if you only use the loft for storage space. However, as an extra living space, there will be problems. Poor energy efficiency Remember when I said, “A large surface area is both a gable roof advantage and disadvantage. We will discuss the disadvantages later.” This is later. A larger surface area gives heat more opportunity to escape. Likewise, the cold also has more opportunities to enter the building. Therefore, gable roofs are not energy efficient. However, you can fix this by adding insulation. Conclusion There you have it. Now, you know ten gable roof pros and cons. You will notice that the pros outweigh the cons. Besides, there are ways to fix or work around these gable roof cons. That’s why gable roofs remain so popular. Still, other types of roofs have their benefits, too. So, reach out to me to learn more about them. You can also hire me to repair and install roofs for your home, office and other buildings. This website, Fixmyroof, is not just a hub of information. It’s also a way for you to contact me for your roofing solutions.

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