Flat Roofs

These roofs are flat nearly. However slight slope (not more than 10°) is given to drain out the rain water. All types of upper storey floors may serve as flat roofs. several times top of these roofs are treated with water proofing materials-such as mixing water proofing chemicals in concrete, providing coba concrete. Such roofs are constructed with advent of reliable water proofing techniques even in areas with heavy rain fall.

The advantages of flat roofs are following:

(1) For playing and celebrating functions the roof can be used as a terrace.

(2) By adding another storey at any latter stage the roof can be converted as a floor

(3) Can be suit to any shape of the building.

(4) Over-head water tanks and other services may be easily located.

(5) They can be made fire proof easily compared to pitched roof.

The disadvantages of flat roofs are:

(1) They can't cover large column free areas.

(2) Leakage problem may take place at latter date also due to development of cracks. It needs costly treatments if leakage problem starts.

(3) Dead weight of flat roofs is more.

(4) Flat roofs are to be avoided in places of snow fall to reduce snow load.

(5) Initial cost of construction is more.

(6) Speed of construction of flat roofs is less.

Types of Flat Roofs: All types listed for upper floors may be used as flat roofs.