You have likely noticed that most petrol stations in major towns—both locally and abroad—feature flat-roofed structures.
Interestingly, it is not just the canopies covering fuel pumps; nearby facilities like cafes, supermarkets, toilets, and garages within the station compounds also share the same design.
But have you ever paused to wonder why this is the case? Kenyans.co.ke explores the practical reasons behind the widespread use of flat roofs at petrol stations.
Flat roofs have long been a staple in commercial architecture, as they offer a range of benefits that make them an ideal choice for many businesses.
Emergency Response
According to experts, in the event of emergencies such as blazes, the use of flat roofs makes it easier for blaze rescue teams to extinguish an inferno. Pitched roofs make it hard for emergency responders to effectively band and easily put out blazes.
Additionally, the spread of a blaze on flat roofs is slower compared to pitched-roof structures.
Flammability
Some petroleum products are highly flammable. As such, the petrol stations should be designed such that the temperatures are regulated; thus, the roof is built as flat and raised slightly higher than any other roofs within the vicinity.
Flat roofs are also ideal for installing reflective coatings and green roofing systems, which help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
Reflective, such as the white coatings applied on the roofs, minimise heat absorption, keeping the building cooler during hot seasons.
Versatility
Flat roofs offer flexibility in design and functionality as they can accommodate various mechanical and electrical systems without disrupting the building’s aesthetic.
This versatility allows architects and builders to create innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of petrol stations, from additional workspace to roofs that improve air quality and reduce urban heat.
Additionally, flat roofs can be utilised for recreational spaces or solar panel installations, maximising the utility of the rooftop area. Their design simplicity also translates to easier and more cost-effective maintenance and repair.
Space Maximisation
Flat roofs offer an efficient way to maximise usable space, often serving as ideal locations for housing HVAC systems. These systems—responsible for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—help maintain indoor comfort by warming spaces using furnaces or heat pumps, circulating fresh air while removing pollutants and moisture, and cooling interiors while regulating humidity.
Maintenance
Flat roofs are typically more economical to install and maintain than pitched roofs. Their straightforward design necessitates fewer materials and less labour, leading to lower initial installation expenses for petrol stations.
Additionally, the straightforward maintenance reduces long-term expenses, making flat roofs a budget-friendly option for commercial properties.
Water Drainage
Despite being referred to as flat roofs, they are slightly sloped in their design to facilitate water drainage. Flat roofs use advanced materials and drainage systems to prevent water accumulation, reducing the risk of leaks and structural damage.
This effective water management is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the petrol station.
Building Codes and Aesthetic Considerations
Across the world, major cities have building codes that impose certain limits and restrictions on building heights due to a number of reasons, among them aviation safety.
Flat roofs help in adhering to these regulations so that petrol stations do not have to undergo constant readjustments that might compromise safety while providing a modern and streamlined appearance that aligns with contemporary architectural trends.
