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Flat vs. Pitched Roofing
If you are planning to add a new roof to your home or shed, be sure to consider all the available options. Pitched roofs come in a variety of styles, such as gable, cross gable and hipped, all of which are sloped to different degrees. Flat roofs have no slope and are available in built-up, single-ply and sprayed polyurethane foam designs. Consult with a roofing contractor to determine which roofing option is best for your individual needs.
Maintenance
Both flat and pitched roofs require regular maintenance. However, although pitched roofs may be more difficult to clean and inspect, due to the sloped structure, flat roofs often require more maintenance throughout the life of the roof. Flat roof drainage is not quite as effective as a pitched roof’s, and without regular inspection, drains can become clogged, leading to damage and leaks. The roof requires a waterproof seal, which must be maintained regularly to prevent leaks and costly repairs. Many flat roof leaks are due to a lack of regular inspection and maintenance, so be sure that you have the time to check your roof regularly if you choose a flat roof for your property.
Cost
A flat roof is significantly cheaper than a pitched roof. If you live in an area that receives a large amount of rainfall each year, any money you might save in flat roof installation costs might be compensated for in future repairs. Flat roofs’ repair costs are more expensive than pitched roofs are and because they are less prone to moisture damage, a pitched roof may be more affordable in the long-term.
Structure
Consider whether the basic structure of a flat or pitched roof is right for your property. A pitched roof provides more structure and stability than a flat roof, as well as excellent drainage in areas that receive large amounts of rain. However, a flat roof is an inexpensive and practical option for those who live in areas that receive little rainfall. Flat roofs are also characteristic of modern design, so if you want to design a contemporary home, use a flat roof or a pitched roof with a very low slope.
Advantages & Disadvantages of a Flat-Roofed Porch
At first glance, it might seem that flat porch roofs simply don’t make much sense, architecturally speaking. While it may be true that sloped roofs shed rain and snow faster, a flat roof might better reflect the “broad horizontal lines of the natural landscape.” While modern building materials have alleviated the wear and tear factor somewhat, a homeowner should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages before opting for the flat roof porch design.
Advantages
A flat roof is often equated with “poor drainage.” While obviously a flat roof won’t drain as well as its sloped cousin, it doesn’t necessarily mean a flat roof doesn’t drain at all–it’s just not as impressive a flow. A major benefit to a flat roof is that it’s easier to build and cheaper. If the building is large enough, a flat-roofed porch becomes a more attractive option, structurally. Sloped roofs require more material and engineering. The biggest advantage to a flat roof porch is the alternative uses to which you can put the space. Install heating and cooling units up there instead of on the ground where they’re a visual nuisance. Turn it into an upstairs deck or greenhouse, or enclose it and turn it into a swanky penthouse. Or install solar panels and generate free electricity.
Disadvantages
The primary disadvantage to a flat porch roof relates to drainage or lack thereof. A flat roof can be designed to drain water moderately well. The more pronounced drainage problem occurs during winter, when snow sits until it melts. The weight of snow means the porch has to be able to withstand a higher load of weight, which requires more involved engineering and greater material expense. For flat porch roofs that do develop a problem with “pooling” or “ponding” of water, expect it to deteriorate that much faster. Another drawback to the flat roof porch design is that if it does begin to leak from poor drainage, damage can result to the underside of the porch, including finished wood, decorated ceilings and even walls.
CALL FAMILY ROOFING FOR ALL OF YOUR ROOFING, GUTTER AND CHIMNEY/BRICK REPAIR NEEDS IN WASHINGTON, DC AT (202) 276-5004 OR EMAIL US AT FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM!
