Flat roofs are growing in popularity throughout the UK, but lots of people worry they will be troublesome during the autumn and winter months, due to falling leaves, wet conditions, and snow.
However, as long as you choose a flat roof specialist for good-quality products and installation, you should not have any trouble, even with the British weather.
It is also important to take care of your flat roof, as snow and debris cannot slip off due to gravity like they can on pitched roofs.
Therefore, one thing you need to make sure you do is clear your gutters. This will enable water to drain from the roof to the ground, preventing water pooling on top, which would make the roof more prone to leaking and could cause damage.
You could also use a tall broom to remove any debris from the top of the roof, as this stops leaves and twigs getting caught in the guttering. Checking that the drains are clear and water can flow easily down them will keep it in good condition for longer.
If you tend to get heavy snowfall where you live, try to clear it regularly. The weight of a blanket of snow can press down on the roof, potentially damaging its structure. As it melts, it can also lead to leaks through to the inside of the building.
Although all homeowners should be vigilant to sort out any cracks or problems with sealant, those with flat roofs have to be extra cautious.
As water is unable to run down as easily as it can on a pitched roof, there is more likely to be leaking if edges are not properly sealed or there are problems with the flashing.