Unveiling the financial burden: Exploring the cost implications of flat roof defects in residential buildings
List of Authors
  • Syaza Zahri , Wan Faida Wan Mohd Azmi

Keyword
  • flat roof, defects, cost implications, residential

Abstract
  • In the realm of residential buildings, the choice of roofing plays a vital role in both functionality and aesthetics. Due to their attractive design, flat roofs have surpassed traditional pitched roofs in prevalence in Malaysia. However, while flat roofs have become a popular choice for residential buildings in Malaysia, it is imperative to address the specific challenges posed by equatorial climates. Climate projections indicate that Malaysia is expected to face increasing temperatures of up to 1.5°C by the year 2050. This rise in temperature is likely to be accompanied by more intense rainfall during wet periods and reduced rainfall during dry periods. These climate changes have significant implications for the design and construction of residential buildings, particularly in relation to flat roofs such as leakage, moisture accumulation, flaking, blistering, and ponding. These leads to financial burden to the homeowners in maintaining their residential flat roofs. Therefore, this research addresses the cost implications of flat roof defects in residential buildings. Its goals include identifying the types of defects, examining their associated costs, and proposing solutions to minimize their occurrence. Through the distribution of questionnaires to 63 respondents from contractor companies, the research findings highlight moisture as one of the predominant flat roof defects. Additionally, the study reveals that replacing the flat roof is the most expensive measure to address these defects. Consequently, the research underscores the importance of opting for high-quality waterproofing materials and implementing effective workmanship management during construction as key solutions to minimize flat roof defects. This research achieved it aims in providing valuable insights into the financial implications of flat roof defects in residential buildings. By doing so, the homeowners, contractors, and stakeholders in the construction industry have input in developing strategies to reduce maintenance costs and improve the durability of flat roofs in residential structures.

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