Flat or pitched roof?

If you are building an extension to your house or a garage, then one of the crucial decisions to factor in is whether to opt for a flat or pitched roof. Opinions will vary from one roofer to another, but from our many years of experience in the roofing industry, we have compiled a list of advantages and disadvantages of each roofing style.

Flat roofing advantages

Compact design – If you are planning an extension to your house, then flat roofs feature a compact design that is easier to design and fit. They can provide an ideal solution for small kitchen extensions or new garages and can be swiftly constructed.

Small slope – Flat roofs are still constructed with a slight slope to prevent the pooling of rainwater on the surface.

Economical – Due to fewer materials used and shorter construction time, flat roofing tends to be a much cheaper alternative to having a pitched roof.

Flat roofing disadvantage

A flat roof doesn’t have the long lifespan that a pitched roof does but technological advancements in the materials used in flat roofing has meant the average lifespan has increased. A well constructed flat roof should last at least 40 years if properly maintained.

Pitched roof advantages

Sloped – The large degree of slope on a pitched roof allows rainwater to run away into the drainage system smoothly. Which is just as well if you live in rainy Dunstable or Luton.

Durability – Becuase of the hardwearing nature of the materials, pitched roofs tend to have a longer lifespan than a flat roof and requires less ongoing maintenance for a roofer to undertake.

Aesthetics – Again it is down to personal taste, but a pitched roof is generally considered to be a more attractive feature than a flat roof

Disadvantages of a pitched roof

Cost – A pitched roof is considerably more expensive to construct because of the increased labour costs and a higher amount of building materials used. However, the durability and lifespan of a pitched roof do counterbalance the price.

If you live in the Dunstable and Luton area and require any roof type, give Stanleys Roofing and Building a call today for more information.