What are the differences and similarities between a flat roof and pitched roof?
What Is A Flat Roof?
Most commonly used on commercial buildings, flat roofs aren’t actually completely flat. This favorite system of modern architects is designed with a slight slope, which is used to push any precipitation toward the gutters.
Flat Roof Pros
Flat roofing pros will certainly outweigh the cons. The advantages of a flat roofing system seem endless. From affordability to ease of maintenance, these roofing systems will work well on homes and commercial properties.
Inexpensive
If you are wondering if flat roofs come with a smaller price tag than most other materials, the answer is yes! Flat roofs are affordable in two different ways since both the materials and labor cost less than other common materials. Roofing contractors will work with large sheets so installation is not a long process.
Pitched roofs, meanwhile, require more materials and more support during installation. Flat roofs will also offer extra space at the top, meaning you can use this area to store equipment or even add an extra bedroom. A pitched roof will not allow homeowners any flexibility.
Ability To Build Extensions
As mentioned above, the ability to build extensions is one of the biggest advantages of installing these roofing systems. If you’re planning on extending your home in the future, it’s wise to choose flat roofs. Flat roofs make building a home extension possible.
Since these roofing systems are so easy to install and work with, any extension project will take less time. Just remember to always call a professional roofing contractor for this task.
Modern Appeal
A lot of modern architecture will utilize flat roofing systems. Flat roofs will undoubtedly make your home look modern and unique, at the same time.
One of the best parts of flat roofing is it can work with any landscaping style or theme. Flat roofs are becoming a popular home-building trend. Just check out a catalog of designs for some roofing inspiration.
Easy And Safe To Maintain
A flat roof is safer to walk/climb on compared to other roofing materials. To aid the process of walking on this system, many home and business owners opt to build a parapet wall. Ask your roofing contractor about this possibility.
Use Space Above Flat Roof
With flat roofing, you will be able to maximize the area above the roof. One eco-friendly option is growing a garden atop the roof.
Flat roof gardens have been proven to cool the rooms beneath them. This helps to save on energy costs. Other home and business owners may choose to create a dinning space on the roof or install solar panels.
Flat Roof Cons
Now that we know about the pros of flat roofs, it’s time to look at a few of the drawbacks.
Maintenance Needs
Since these systems are flat, they will pose a few structural concerns. These concerns are typically for areas that experience a lot of snow or rainfall, such as New York City. For this reason, it’s suggested that you have your flat roof inspected once per year, at minimum. Flat roof inspections are generally pretty quick and inexpensive.
Shorter Lifespan
On average, a flat roof will last a total of 10 years. A pitched roof, meanwhile, has a life expectancy of 20+ years. If you plan on staying in your home or building for a long time, a pitched roof may seem like a better investment.
Risk Of Leaks
Flat roofs are not great at shedding lots of rain or snow. As a result, snow and rain can build up and puddle atop the roof. Oftentimes, this can cause leakage.
What Is A Pitched Roof?
Any roofing type that has a peak is considered a pitched roof. You are most likely to find this roofing system used on residential homes in the Midwest. Pitched roofs will give you a triangular shape atop your home.
Pitched Roof Pros
There are many reasons why so many home and business owners choose pitched roofing. Let’s take a look at some benefits below.
Less Maintenance Needs
Pitched roofs are specifically designed to let precipitation slide right off. Built with a pitch, these roofs will undoubtedly reduce the normal beating a roof takes over a lifetime. By design, pitch roofing systems will require far fewer maintenance needs than most other materials.
Longer Lifespan
Depending on which shingles and roofing material you choose, these roofs can last anywhere from 20-50 years. This is the longest-lasting roofing option outside of metal pitched roofs.
Pitched Roof Cons
There are a couple cons associated with installing pitched roofing.
Cost
The biggest drawback to pitched roofing is the large upfront cost, especially when compared to flat roofing systems. The installation of a pitched roof is far more time-consuming, which inflates the bottom line.
Not Modern Style
One of the only other cons of pitched roofing is in regard to aesthetic. Modern designers will overwhelming choose flat roofing over pitched roofing.
G Keith Roofing and waterproofing in New York
At G Keith Roofing and waterproofing, we know choosing a Roofing Contractor in the New York Area is a tough job. We are here to help make it easier! Locally owned and operated, G Keith Roofing and waterproofing has been providing roof installation and roof repairs throughout the surrounding New York areas since 1995. With each new roofing project, we strive to provide professional, timely service at a fair price. Contact G Keith Roofing and waterproofing right here!
