Building a flat roof garage, a good idea?
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
In recent years, the flat-roof garage has established itself as a modern and functional architectural alternative for many Quebec homeowners. Once reserved for commercial buildings or ultra-contemporary homes, this type of construction is now increasingly being integrated into residential projects, whether new construction or renovations.
But is it really a suitable solution for all projects? Plan Maison Québec, an expert in designing plans for houses, cottages, and garages across Canada, offers a comprehensive overview to better understand the advantages, challenges, and essential considerations associated with building a flat-roof garage.
What is a flat roof garage?
A flat-roof garage is characterized by a very low roof slope—usually less than 10 degrees. This slope is sufficient to allow rainwater to drain away, but it is not visible to the naked eye, giving the building a simple, clean, and cubic appearance. This type of roof often rests on a wood or steel structure, covered with a waterproofing coating such as an elastomeric membrane, EPDM, or modified bitumen.
Contrary to popular belief, a flat roof does not mean that the surface is perfectly horizontal. It is a false flat that is precisely designed to ensure efficient drainage while maintaining a minimalist look. At Plan Maison Québec, we integrate proven technical solutions into our plans to guarantee the durability and performance of flat roofs in Quebec's harsh climatic conditions.
A contemporary aesthetic that enhances your property
The main visual advantage of a flat-roof garage is its resolutely modern style. This structure fits perfectly with current architectural trends that favor straight lines, simple volumes, and harmonious materials. This type of garage blends particularly well with contemporary or minimalist homes, but it can also bring a touch of modernity to a more traditional residence when well integrated into the overall design.
Furthermore, the flat roof can easily accommodate additional design options, such as a roof terrace, a hanging garden, or even solar panels. These additions not only increase the building's functionality but also add value to your property.
A significant gain in interior space
Significant interior space savings. On a practical level, a flat-roof garage offers more usable interior space. With no slope, the ceiling maintains a uniform height across the entire garage, maximizing available space. This facilitates interior design for storage, shelving, or creating a workspace. For expansion projects or construction on smaller lots, this configuration represents a significant advantage.
At Plan Maison Québec, we design plans that make the most of every square meter, whether for a single or double garage, or even a garage with a mezzanine.
A more economical solution to construction
Another significant advantage of a flat-roof garage is its generally lower construction cost than a sloping-roof garage. The simpler structure, requiring less framing, and the absence of tiles or shingles, contribute to a lower overall budget. However, this advantage must be put into perspective: the quality of the waterproofing materials and the expertise in the installation are essential to avoid future problems.
At Plan Maison Québec, we understand that every project is unique. Our plans are designed to offer the best value for money, while complying with construction standards and the specific requirements of Quebec municipalities.
Rainwater management: a crucial point
The main concern with flat roofs is rainwater and snow management. Unlike pitched roofs, which naturally drain water, flat roofs require a well-designed drainage system. This can include integrated drains, invisible internal or external slopes, and high-performance waterproofing materials.
In a climate like Quebec's, it is crucial to plan for regular maintenance to prevent:
water infiltration
ice formation
overloading caused by snow accumulation.
With a well-designed plan and appropriate materials, these risks are largely manageable.
Maintenance and sustainability: a preventive approach
A well-designed flat roof garage can last for decades. However, its longevity depends directly on the regular maintenance you devote to it. An annual inspection of the waterproofing membrane, cleaning the drains, and careful snow removal in winter are among the best practices to adopt.
The durability of a flat roof also depends on the materials chosen. EPDM, for example, is a synthetic material that is highly resistant to temperature variations, UV rays, and weather. It is an excellent choice for Canadian conditions. Plan Maison Québec collaborates with trusted partners to recommend the best technical options to its clients.
A flexible and customizable solution
Contrary to popular belief, a flat-roof garage offers numerous customization options. Whether you want to add side windows, a service door, overhead storage, or even roof access, anything is possible with a good architectural plan.
Some municipalities also allow the roof to be converted into an outdoor living space, provided you comply with certain planning regulations. This flexibility allows you to optimize the use of the garage according to your evolving needs, while respecting the aesthetics of your home.
Is it suitable for all climates?
Quebec is known for its harsh winters, abundant rainfall, and extreme temperature variations. This might lead one to believe that flat roofs are unsuitable for our climate. However, when properly designed, they are perfectly resistant to local conditions.
The discreet but sufficient slope, combined with a quality waterproofing membrane and a good drainage system, allows for efficient water evacuation and limits the risk of infiltration. Plan Maison Québec's design takes these climatic imperatives into account to provide our clients with solid and reliable structures over the long term.
Regulations and permits: not to be neglected
Before starting construction on your flat-roof garage, it's essential to check current municipal regulations. Some municipalities impose specific standards regarding minimum roof slope, maximum garage height, and permitted materials. In addition, a building permit is often required.
At Plan Maison Québec, we guide you through all the administrative procedures and draw up plans that comply with your local requirements. This simplifies the process and avoids unpleasant surprises.
Conclusion: the flat roof garage, a thoughtful and modern choice
In summary, building a flat-roof garage is an aesthetic, economical, and functional solution. It appeals with its contemporary look, its ability to maximize space, and its flexible layout. However, it requires rigorous design and regular maintenance to ensure its performance and durability in Quebec's climate.
Plan Maison Québec is the ideal partner to assist you with this type of project. Our team offers customized plans tailored to your needs, your budget, and local standards. Whether you're planning to build a garage attached to your home, a detached garage, or even a garage integrated into a new build, we have the solutions you need.
Turn your ideas into reality
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