Flat Out Fabulous: Functional Ways To Put Your Flat Roof To Use
Who said flat roofs needed to be boring, square tops on buildings? With a sprinkle of creativity, you can turn your flat roof into a more functional space. Below, we’ll take a look at a few different inspiring solutions.
Make a bright investment with solar panels
Solar panels give you the option to harvest free electricity from the sun. Adding a few panels to your roof could be a great way to slash your energy bills. On large flat roofs, it may even be possible to install enough panels to go off-grid.
Yes, solar panels do cost a lot of money to install. However, there are incentives and rebates that can reduce the upfront costs. Most installers allow you to pay in installments over several years. If you move, you could also boost your property value by installing solar panels.
Eco-warriors should particularly consider installing solar panels as a way to reduce their carbon footprint. Mains electricity is often generated using finite fossil fuels, whereas solar power is fully sustainable and creates no emissions.
When installing solar panels on a flat roof, you’ll need to consider mounting systems so that panels are slanted - this encourages self-cleaning. Orient your panels so that they’re facing the south (unless you live in the southern hemisphere - in which case, you’ll want them facing north to maximize sunlight throughout the day).
Keep your cool with AC units
Fed up of sweaty summers? Installing air conditioning units could be overdue. HVAC tends to be the most popular option - providing heating and cooling. Flat roofs make the perfect place to locate units as they are out of sight and easy to maintain.
A HVAC contractor will be able to install units for you. These need to be securely mounted and waterproofed using flashings or a vulcanized curb. Many modern rooftop units are able to operate quietly, while rubber vibration damping may also be possible to install to reduce vibrations.
Make sure to position the unit away from the edge so that it can be easily accessed from all angles and to reduce wind damage. Some light roofs may need reinforcing before installing an HVAC unit (particularly a large unit).
Light up your life with skylights
Skylights allow sunlight to pour in through your roof, helping to brighten up gloomy inner areas. On a clear night, you can also gaze up at the stars from the comfort of your home. In many cases, they can add value to your home.
Choose roof lanterns to increase the wow factor and maximize the amount of light coming in. Vented skylights can meanwhile, provide ventilation by giving the option to open them. To help block out the early morning sun, consider adding shades that can be rolled over them (remote-controlled shades are an option).
It’s important that there is an upstand or curb around your skylight to help water drain away. It’s also advisable that skylights are double paned to help provide insulation. Many window installation companies will be qualified to install skylights, but you may want to consider hiring a company that specializes in roof windows when installing more elaborate styles like domes and prisms.
Live the high life with an outdoor terrace
One of the most fun ways to put a flat roof to use is to set up a terrace. This is a way of transforming your roof into an additional outdoor living space. Such a modification is recommended if you live somewhere with breathtaking views.
There are so many ways to design an outdoor terrace. A simple option could be to add decking and a few sun loungers. A more elaborate design could include adding paving slabs, an outdoor lounge suite, patio heaters, a BBQ area and a pergola.
More ambitious designs may involve adding a lot of weight to your roof, so you will need to make sure that roof and the walls are suitably reinforced. Sticking to lightweight flooring and furniture will reduce the need for this, but you still need to make sure your roof can support multiple people standing on it. You may also want to consider exploring ways of securing furniture down as rooftop terraces can get very windy.
Installing an outdoor terrace often requires planning permission and a structural inspection. You’ll need to consider access - which could either include an interior staircase or exterior staircase. Rails or glass panels will also need to be added around your terrace for safety. Look for specialist companies that have converted flat roofs into terraces before, as they may be able to carry out all surveys and apply for all permits on your behalf.
Spruce it up with a roof garden
Turning your roof into a lush garden could be a good idea if you live in a city and don’t have a backyard. It could provide a serene escape amid the concrete jungle and allow you to put your green thumb to use.
Roof gardens can also help to support local wildlife such as bees, butterflies and birds. This again has huge benefits in cities where there may be limited greenery for wildlife to thrive.
Studies have also shown that roof gardens can help cool homes in cities. This is because plants can provide shade and keep the roof surface cool.
When choosing plants, think carefully about weight, sun tolerance and wind tolerance. It’s often best to stick to small plants that thrive in high-exposure areas like lavender, rosemary and boxwood. It’s possible to grow grass on a roof by first installing a root barrier and then adding several inches of substrate. Rooftop lawns will help clean the local air while serving as beautiful features that could accompany a terrace.
Final thoughts
When choosing the best way to put your flat roof to use, consider your budget, your needs and your goals. Terraces and rooftop gardens are worthy features if you want to focus on making your home more relaxing. Solar panels are investments that will save you money. HVAC units will improve comfort. Skylights will meanwhile brighten up your home if it’s gloomy.