Flat roofing

Flat roof repairs and replacement

Flat roofs are common on extensions, garages, porches, dormers and commercial buildings. They are not truly flat, because they need a slight fall so water can run off, and when that drainage fails, water can pond, stress the covering and find its way inside.

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What we can help with

Flat roofing: the jobs we take on

Whether you have a recurring leak, a split membrane or a roof that has simply reached the end of its useful life, we can help you understand the options and the likely next steps.

Leak investigation and localised repairs
Patching splits, blisters and open seams
Re-sealing upstands, edges and roof lights
Replacing outlets, drips and trims
Full flat roof replacement on extensions, garages and outbuildings
Commercial flat roof maintenance and repair
Improving falls and drainage where water collects
Advice on insulation when the roof is being renewed

Know what to look for

Signs a flat roof is struggling

Standing water that does not clear

Puddles that remain a day or two after rain suggest poor falls or a blocked outlet. Over time, ponding speeds up wear on the covering.

Blisters, cracks or splits

Raised bubbles, hairline cracks or open seams let moisture reach the deck below. Edges and joints are common weak points.

Leaks that come and go

Water can travel along the deck before it appears inside, so the stain on a ceiling is often some distance from the actual failure.

Damp or soft decking

A spongy feel underfoot or dark staining in the roof void can mean moisture has been getting in for some time and the deck may need replacing.

Practical guidance

Flat roof materials at a glance

Rubber membrane (EPDM): A single sheet laid over the roof surface, with few joints. Often chosen for small domestic roofs where a continuous covering helps reduce weak points.
Fibreglass (GRP): A resin and glass-fibre covering formed on site into a seamless surface. Detailing around edges and penetrations matters a great deal for a long life.
Felt and built-up systems: Multi-layer bitumen-based coverings, including high-performance felt systems. Widely used and repairable, with performance depending on the system and workmanship.
Single-ply membranes (PVC / TPO): Sheets joined with welded seams, often seen on larger commercial roofs. Installers usually need the right training and equipment, so ask about this.
Insulation and building control: Replacing a flat roof covering often presents the opportunity, and sometimes the requirement, to upgrade insulation. Ask how the design affects condensation risk and Building Regulations.

How it works

How a flat roofing enquiry works

Describe the roof and the problem
Tell us where the roof is, roughly how large it is, what it is covered with if you know, and where water is coming in.
Look at the whole roof
Flat roof leaks are often found some distance from where they show, so the assessment considers the covering, edges, outlets and deck.
Repair or renew
You are given the realistic options in writing, including what a repair can and cannot achieve, so you can decide with the full picture.
Work and handover
The work is completed, falls and outlets are checked and the roof is cleared of debris.

Quick enquiry

Request a flat roofing quote

A few details are enough to get started. Tell us what is wrong and where. A call is not a booking.

Prefer to email? info@ryangroup.co.uk
Prefer to talk? 01737 947226
Planning something bigger? Use the larger-project form
Local guides: Redhill, Reigate, Lingfield. See the areas hub for what is and is not published.

RYAN GROUPMaintenance & Construction

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Questions

Flat roofing: frequently asked questions

Can a leaking flat roof be repaired, or does it need replacing?

Localised damage such as a split, failed joint or damaged upstand can often be repaired. If the covering is widely cracked, the deck is wet or the roof has repeatedly failed, replacement is usually the more sensible long-term option.

Which flat roof material is best?

There is no single best choice. It depends on the size and shape of the roof, how it is used, access, budget and the details around edges and penetrations. A good installer should explain why they recommend a particular system for your roof.

Do I need planning permission to replace a flat roof?

Like-for-like replacement rarely needs planning permission, but Building Regulations can apply, especially to insulation. Listed buildings and conservation areas have extra rules. Check with your local authority if unsure.

Do you look after commercial flat roofs?

Commercial enquiries are welcome. Please include access arrangements, approximate area and whether the building remains in use so the work can be planned sensibly.