What Is Better Flat Roof Or Pitched
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- 24-03-2022
What Is Better Flat Roof Or Pitched?
Find out what is better flat roof or pitched? If you want to install a ne roof, you will want to know which roofing type is right for you. We look at the difference between flat and pitched roofs.
Flat Roofing VS Pitched Roofing
The overall design of your roofing can have all kinds of impacts on the value, function, and aesthetic of your home.
If you are looking to have a new roof installed on your business premises or even your home, then the decision between going with a pitched roof or a flat roof can be a tough one.
Like any choice with your home, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. So take a look below as we guide you through the pros and cons of pitched roofs and flat roofs.
Flat Roofing
Pros
Over the years, flat roofing has become more and more desirable, especially for commercial properties such as offices.
Flat roofs often work at their best on smaller buildings, this is because of their compact nature. This means that flat roofs are ideal for garages and extensions on residential properties. In some cases, they can be used for larger properties, they are not completely unsuitable.
When property owners are considering the construction of a new roof, then one of the first things that come to mind is the sheer amount of work it will take.
There will be high costs, and the residents of the building will be disruptive. This is where flat roofing really comes into its own.
Flat roofs are far easier and quicker to install than pitched roofs. This is especially true for businesses, where the reduced turnaround time of a flat roof can mean there are hugely reduced down-times for the employees.
Once this is combined with the cheaper design of a flat roof, as well as the installation costs, you can quickly realise that choosing a flat roof can save you a lot of money.
For many people, the environment is a key concern. If you are worried about your carbon footprint or how your daily life contributes to climate change then flat roofs are perfect for creating an eco-friendly green roof.
Of course, this depends on the construction of the roofing, but if you are able to maintain a green roof on the top of your property, then there are various benefits. Green roofs will assist with drainage, as well as the roof's general efficiency.
Cons
The disadvantages that are associated with flat roofs are all related to maintenance.
Flat roofs usually require more hands-on work in order to make sure that they are lasting as long as possible. For larger properties, the idea of having to keep an eye on and regularly check a large roof is incredibly discouraging.
The drainage on flat roofing is far less efficient than it is on pitched roofs. This means that if you live in an area where there is regular heavy rainfall, then you may want to think twice about going with a flat roof.
This can, in some scenarios, be rectified through the use of a green roof. Installing a dedicated drainage solution is another option. If you are curious about these options, then you should talk to a roofing company to see which choices are viable for your property.
Pitched Roofing
Pros
Pitched roofs are the most traditional roofing solution for domestic properties, and they are still incredibly popular today for a variety of reasons.
One of the main reasons is versatility. Flat roofs were designed to accommodate for foot traffic so that people could walk on top. Pitched roofs don't have this feature, but they can be converted into an extra living space.
All kinds of room types, such as attic bedrooms, bathrooms, storage rooms, playrooms, offices, and more are perfect to fit in underneath a pitched roof.
The ability to convert is invaluable if you feel that you may need an extra room at some point in your future, or if you want to make the home more appealing to potential buyers. Pitched roofs are well known for their durability and long life span. Maintenance is far less important with pitched roofs than it is with flat roofs.
Due to their design, pitched roofs are also much more reliable with drainage than flat roofs. Rainwater is naturally channelled down the roof's slopes and into the home's guttering and pipes. The chance of water pooling and causing leaks is also very unlikely with pitched roofs.
Cons
When looking at getting a new roof installed, price is always a major factor. Though maintenance is less of a concern with pitched roofs, the initial cost of having one of these roofs constructed is quite high.
They also take far more time to install than flat roofs, which can also add to the total cost. Many homeowners may choose flat roofing rather than pitched roofing simply because the installation process of a pitched roof is much more disruptive.
The installation will usually take between two to three days. For a business, this can be especially disruptive and may hamper productivity.
Flat Roof Costs VS Pitched Roof Costs
Pitched roofs have a variety of different materials to choose from, thus means there are more potential costs to consider. If you are hoping to create a roofing structure that will stand the test of time, these are the materials we would recommend, as well as how much (on average), they will cost.
Zinc roofing, costs on average around £60 to £80 per m2
Natural slates costs on average around £90 to £120 m2
Clay tiles costs on average around £30 to £65 m2
Just like with a pitched roof, the cost of a flat roof will depend on the building material you decide to move forward with.
On average, to build a flat roof on your property, the prices you will be paying are below.
Felt roofing, costs on average around £50 to £70 per m2
EPDM, costs on average around £80 to £100 per m2
Fibreglass. costs on average around £90 to £120 m2
Should I Choose A Flat or Pitched Roof?
Space
If you are looking to increase the amount of space within your property, then a pitched roof is definitely the answer.
The slopes of a pitched roof are built in a way that means there is plenty of space within the roof. This space can be used for storage or could be converted into an extra room.
Although, if you are working with a very small space or you have recently added an extension to your home, then a flat roof in its own way is very space-saving. Flat roofs have a compact design that lends itself well to smaller builds.
Timescale
No matter whether you are constructing an entirely new building or simply an extension to your property, construction projects are famous for always overturning and being finished much later than was initially scheduled.
If you are eager to have your project finished quickly and by a specific date, then a flat roof is the best choice for you. Flat roofs have a simpler design and use fewer materials than pitched roofing. This means flat roofs can be constructed much faster.
Price
If you are on a tight budget, then a flat roof is, without a doubt, the best choice for your construction project.
Pitched roofs require far more materials, and they will generally take more hours to construct. This means that pitched roofs will always come in at a much higher price than flat roofing.
Are you looking for a flat roof specialist in Andover, Basingstoke or Winchester? If you find yourself in need of a replacement flat roof, don't hesitate to contact Flat Roofers Basingstoke today! We have staff on hand to answer any questions you might have.