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Modern flat roofs are one of the most distinguishing characteristics of homes in modern architectural style. At Arjen Homes, many of our modern new homes feature attractive flat roofs.

Why Use a Flat Roof?

Flat roofs are used in modern home design because the simple line of a flat roof compliments the clean geometric look of the home’s walls, windows, and doors. The long horizontal line of a flat roof also reflects the line of a horizon and helps to tie the home to its natural surroundings.

A distinct advantage of modern flat roofs is that they offer the opportunity for additional living space or even gardens. Some people even install solar panels on their roofs to cut their energy costs. Talk to us about a custom home, and we can make full use of your rooftop space.

One more advantage of flat roofs is the cost. Materials for flat roofs are typically less costly than those used for pitched roofs. Labor for installation is also cheaper. Thus, when your home needs a new roof, you will enjoy a far less costly replacement than you would with a new pitched roof.

Do Flat Roofs Leak?

Flat roofs will not leak if they are maintained and are well-built. With a new home by Arjen, you can be rest assured that your flat roof will be professionally constructed using high-quality materials. We will also let you know what you need to do to maintain your roof to keep it in great condition. In fact, maintaining flat roofs is typically easier and less costly.

Also, contrary to its name, a flat roof isn’t perfectly flat. Flat roofs actually have a slight pitch of at least ⅛ inch to allow water to drain. In fact, many flat roofs feature parapet walls or edge flashing to disguise the slight slope. 

How Are Flat Roofs Constructed?

Flat roof frames for homes can use different types of materials. Possibilities include steel, concrete, wood, and laminated beams. The flexibility of materials allows the designer or architect to make a selection that fits the home’s style.

Sometimes the entire roof framing for a new home is built at a slope. However, it’s usually easier and more cost-effective to put tapered foam insulation over the roof sheathing to create a slope. For smaller sections of roof, builders often rip down 2x4s and install them in joints to create a slope.

The actual roofing material can also vary. “Rubber roofs,” or EPDM, consist of a single rubber-type material that is applied to the roof surface without heat. Modified bitumen systems (MBS) include coated basemat layers to seal the roof, and are fast to install. 

For more information on how Arjen Homes builds the roofs on its new homes in Tampa, please contact us. We are happy to answer any questions and talk about a custom design for your home.