The fundamental design of your roof can have a range of different impacts on the function, aesthetic and value of your property. If you’re looking to have a new roof installed on your home or business premises, the decision between a flat roof or a pitched roof can be a tough one.
There are advantages to both, so in this article we thought it would be handy to take a look at the pros and cons of each so you might have a better idea of which would be most suitable for your property.
Pitched Roofing
Pros
Pitched roofs are the traditional domestic roofing solution and they are still popular today for a variety of reasons. Versatility is one of them. While flat roofs can be built to accommodate foot traffic, pitched roofs can be converted to house substantial extra living space inside. Attic bedrooms, bathrooms, playrooms, storage rooms, offices and more can be designed to fit neatly under a pitched roof. This can be invaluable should you require extra room in your property or would like to make your home more appealing for future buyers.
Pitched roofs are known for their longevity and durability, so maintenance is often less of a focus compared to flat roofs. Due to their design, pitched roofs are also more reliable when it comes to drainage, with water naturally channelled into downpipes and guttering, and removed from the property. Pooling water is less of a risk, which can be incredibly important in certain areas.
Cons
Price is always a factor when it comes to any roof, and while maintenance might be less of an issue, the initial cost of construction can be comparatively high. In addition, pitched roofs also take more time to install. Homeowners as well as business owners might rather face less initial disruption by choosing a flat roof, instead of the time-intensive nature of pitched roof installation.
Flat Roofing
Pros
Flat roofing is becoming more and more desirable, particularly for commercial properties. Flat roofs are typically at their best on smaller buildings, due to their compact nature. This makes them ideal for extensions and garages, but doesn’t render them unsuitable for large properties.
When people think of building a new roof, one of the first things that comes to mind is the sheer amount of work required. Flat roofing has a lot to offer in this regard, being quicker and easier to install than pitched roofing. For business in particular, the quick turnaround time on a flat roof installation can be very appealing due to vastly reduced downtime. Combine this with much cheaper design and installation costs compared to pitched roofs, and you can quickly save a bundle by opting for a flat roof.
The environment is also a key concern for many these days, and flat roofs can be the ideal canvas for an eco-friendly green roof. This will depend on the construction of the roof and your property as a whole, but if you are able to maintain a green roof on your property, the benefits they provide for drainage and general efficiency can be tremendous for roofs of any size.
Cons
Most of the disadvantages of flat roofing are related to maintenance. Flat roofs typically require more hands-on attention to ensure they are performing to their fullest for as long as possible. For larger properties, this could be a discouraging prospect.
Drainage is often less efficient compared to pitched roofing, too, so property owners in areas which see heavy or prolonged rainfall may think twice. This can, however, be rectified with a green roof, or dedicated drainage solutions, so you should talk to your roofing company to see if this approach is viable for you.
What About Aesthetics?
Both pitched and flat roofs offer a unique visual appeal for any property. Pitched roofing is seen as the more traditional option, while flat roofing is popular with modern and contemporary designs.
Flat roofing commonly has a neat, sleek and compact appeal. For commercial properties, a flat roof can create a strong modern atmosphere. This can help strengthen the image of the business as a whole, and can be influential if you’re planning to undergo a re-branding or redesign of your property.
Whatever your choice of roofing style, you’ll need a professional team of roofers to maximise the performance, design and efficiency of your roof. The Roofer Company can provide exactly that.
The Roofer Company are the roofing and building specialists, carrying out new roofing installation for properties of all sizes. Our experts can advise on the most suitable roofing option for your property and will strive to provide a friendly, reliable service every step of the way. To find out more about or flat or pitched roofing options, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
