Make the Most of Your Flat Roof

Most roofs in the UK are angled in order to allow rain water to drain away quickly and efficiently. But there are some buildings that may be fully or partially flat roofed. Often single-storey extensions, garages and converted orangeries have flat roofs, or partially flat roofs.

Many people won’t think to make use of the space atop this flat roof area, and simply leave it alone. But if you want to make the most of your flat roof, there are plenty of inventive and creative ways to make use of the space.

Rooftop garden

A flat roof makes the ideal spot for a rooftop garden. Not only is it more likely to catch the sun than at ground level, but it also provides a safe haven from slugs, snails and other garden pests.

Try arranging potted plants on your flat roof – you could grow flowering plants to attract bees and butterflies, start your own herb garden, or even grow your own fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes and strawberries grow happily in pots and will love the sunshine.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous you could even transform your flat roof into a green roof with a few rolls of turf! Green roofs provide excellent natural insulation and absorb excess rainwater – an ideal solution for a cold or damp utility room.

Outdoor seating area

If you aren’t lucky enough to have a sun-soaked patio or decking area in your garden, why not take things up a level and turn your flat roof into your own outdoor seating area. Whether you choose a vintage wrought iron tea table and chairs or a rustic wooden set, your seating area will feel exclusive and secretive – your own little world above the rooftops.

Bird-friendly zone

If you fancy yourself as a bird spotter, why not create a small oasis for our feathered friends? Setting up a bird table, bird bath, bird feeders and even a bird box on your flat roof will surely attract a huge variety of bird species. They will be safe from predatory cats and other dangers, and their antics will make for interesting viewing for friends and family. Keep the feeders well stocked with seeds and nuts, and your flat roof will resemble a scene from Snow White in no time!

Solar spot

If you’re looking for ways to lessen your impact on the planet, and trying to save some cash too, you could opt to have solar panels installed on your flat roof. The safe and easily accessible surface makes installation and maintenance easy. Flat rooves aren’t easily visible from ground level, so they make ideal spots to install solar panels where they won’t detract from the overall appearance of your home.

Before trying any of these ideas we advise that you check your flat roof is safe to put weight on! Most flat roofs will support the weight of plants in pots, but some may be unsafe to support the weight or tables and chairs, or people.