3 Myths About Flat Roofing

Daniel Bracewell • 16 August 2021

If you’re planning to build a modern home or an extension on your home, you might have some misgivings about flat roofs. Despite flat roofs have been around for centuries, they are surrounded by many myths that can make them look like an impractical choice.

However, whether you want to create a green roof, use the space for solar panels, or create a terrace, it’s important to know the truth about flat roofs, so we have a brief guide to bust three myths about flat roofs.

1. They leak

Flat roofs are not completely flat, and they are designed to shed water effectively with a slight pitch. Combined with adequate gutter and drainage systems, flat roofs are no more likely to leak than any other kind of roof. Waterproof membranes can be applied to flat roof construction, and offer an extra barrier against the elements that will last for 10 to 15 years.

2. They’re expensive

Flat roofs require fewer materials, and the simple design means they can be installed faster and with less labour than other roofs, making them a less expensive option. The choice of materials will also determine the costs, so ensure you get estimates for different types of materials and designs.

Flat roofs allow you to use all the interior square footage available, and they can offer additional usable space as well. Gardens, solar panels, or a deck are all possibilities for extending the use of a flat roof.

3. They can’t withstand heavy loads

In climates that experience moderate amounts of cold weather, there are concerns that a flat roof cannot withstand the weight of heavy snowfall, but modern building codes require that all roofs can bear the load of the average local snowfall.

If you’re looking for a flat roof specialist in Stockport, talk to us today.

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Can You Install Solar Panels On A Flat Roof?

by Daniel Bracewell • 10 December 2025

If you’re exploring how to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, you may be looking at the likes of solar panels for your home. But what if your property has a flat roof rather than a pitched roof? Can you still install solar panels on a flat roof? The short answer is yes, you can! In fact, it is often easier to install solar panels on a flat roof than it is to fit them to a sloped roof, which might make this an even more appealing avenue to explore when you’re looking at flat roof ideas . In many cases, you also don’t need planning permission to install solar panels on your flat roof. Of course, there are exceptions if you have a listed building or live in a conservation area, but if you own your house (different rules apply for flats too), you should be free to add solar panels to your home as you choose. There are different kinds of mounting systems for flat roof solar panels and which is most appropriate for your home will depend on the direction it faces. It is worth noting that the cost of installing solar panels is often higher on flat roofs because of the mounting system, but some of this can be offset by the lower labour costs because the installation process is usually more straightforward. One of the main reasons homeowners install solar panels is to reduce their energy bills. Many report savings of hundreds of pounds each year, which means these panels often pay for themselves relatively quickly. What’s more, under the Smart Export Guarantee , you can sell any energy you don’t use back to the National Grid, which can increase the rate at which your investment in solar panels pays for itself. So, if you are exploring ways to make the most of your flat roof, consider solar panels as an option to reduce your energy bills and do good for the environment.