Flat roofs have been having a slight bad image, however, in the recent years this has changed and they are currently one of the popular options when it comes to home extensions. Peep in new housing schemes or even at refurbished older houses, and you will find flat roofs everywhere – in kitchen extensions, in garden rooms. Why then is it becoming so popular? 

A Contemporary Style without making things too complicated 

Style is one of the primary reasons for the increase in flat roof extensions. They provide a home with a contemporary, sanitised appearance, but do not conflict with the remainder of the structure. A flat roof is simple and clean instead of the lines being complicated by a large pitched roof that looks as though it has been forced into place. 

This causes them to be very popular in rear extensions. A flat roof can be sleek and understated, which is why it can blend with the space as opposed to dominating it, which is seen in the garden. It also allows more space to other things such as roof lanterns or skylights which illuminate the extension with natural light. 

Practical Advantages 

It’s not just about looks. Flat roofs have their share of handy advantages. Firstly, they tend to be cheaper and faster to construct than pitched roofs, which in most cases make them more affordable to the home owners. This is a huge thing when you are already paying a lot of money on an extension project. 

Flat roofs can be used as well. They may be applied to single storey side or rear extensions, garages, porches or even wrap around extension. They do not increase height much, so they are also less prone to issues with planning permission as well. 

The opportunity to utilise the roof space itself is also another advantage. Most home owners are converting flat roofs to green roofs with plants, or installing solar panels to produce their own energy. It is an added feature that the pitched roofs do not necessarily have. 

Improved Materials than Previously 

Many still believe that flat roofs are prone to leaks – and in earlier years that was true. Fabrics used in olden days on the floor tended to crack or blister after several years, which resulted in endless repairs. However, that has been changed with modern materials. 

EPDM rubber, fibreglass (GRP) and high-performance felts have become commonplace and they are constructed to serve decades without cracking or contracting. These roofs are installed correctly, hard, low maintenance and much more dependable than the old ones. This is a massive boost in durability that has contributed to the poor image of flat roofs being so popular. 

Making the Most of Space 

Flat roof extensions are also ideal in creating useful indoor space. The roof is not sloping inwards, so you have the full headroom in the entire extension. It makes them suitable to open-plan kitchens, dining rooms or home offices. 

The reason why homeowners are choosing them 

Flat roof extensions at the end of the day are ticking a lot of boxes. They are fashionable, convenient, affordable and more dependable due to improved materials. They are the ideal compromise between design and cost to many home owners. 

Old stereotypes about flat roofs shouldn’t put you off, in case you are considering an extension of your home. Contemporary ones are not the same as the ones that people had difficulty with in the past. Instead, they can provide you with the additional space you desire, a look that complements your home and a roof that supports as well as any pitched one.