Flat vs. Pitched Roofing's Pros & Cons

If you’re planning to put in a brand new roof to your home or shed, make sure you think about all the available choices. Pitched roofs come in a variety of styles, including gable, cross gable and hipped, all of which are sloped to different levels. Flat roofs don’t have any incline, and can be found in built-up, single-ply and sprayed polyurethane foam designs. Consult with a roofing contractor to determine which roofing alternative is ideal for your unique needs.

Maintenance

Both flat and pitched roofs need regular maintenance. But, though pitched roofs may be more difficult to inspect and clean, as a result of sloped structure, flat roofs often need more maintenance during the life span of the roofing. Flat roof drainage isn’t quite as powerful as a pitched roof and without regular inspection, drains can become clogged, resulting in leaks and damage. The roofing requires a watertight seal, which has to be kept regularly to stop escapes and costly fixes. Many horizontal roof leaks are because of a lack of regular maintenance and inspection, so be confident you have the opportunity to confirm your roof regularly in the event that you pick a flat roof for your property.

Cost

According to increase Net’s online roofing calculator, a horizontal roof is significantly cheaper than a pitched roof. A 900-square-foot apartment roof in the San Francisco region, made from concrete tiles, costs roughly $6,108 to $7,635, whereas a moderately pitched roof with the same specifications ranges from $7,878 to $9,848. Obviously, when you live in a place which receives a great deal of rain each year, any money you might save in apartment roof installation costs may be paid for in potential repairs. Flat roofs’ repair costs are more expensive than pitched roofs’ are, and since they are less susceptible to moisture damage, a pitched roof may be more affordable in the long-term.

Construction

Consider if the simple arrangement of a flat or pitched roof is ideal for your property. A pitched roof provides more stability and structure than a roof, as well as exceptional drainage in areas which receive considerable amounts of rain. However, a flat roof is also an inexpensive and practical alternative for people who live in regions that receive little rain. Flat roofs can also be characteristic of contemporary design, so in the event that you want to design a modern home, use a flat roof or a pitched roof with an extremely low slope.

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