When it comes to choosing a roof for your home, it is tough to decide which is best. On the one hand is the appearance of your home; on the other, the efficiency of the roof. Flat roof repairs cost less than pitched roof repairs, but the latter looks appealing. The choice of the roof also depends on the structure of your home. Of the many types of roofs, flat and pitched roofs are the most popular ones. However, they are popular for different reasons. Let’s look at the pros and cons of both before we decide on which is better.

Difference Between Flat and Pitched Roof

Flat roof

It is important to understand that a flat roof is not entirely flat. There are slopes so that water doesn’t get stagnant. The usefulness of a flat roof is that you can place HVAC and other vents on it. But the R-Value needs to be maintained properly on a flat roof.

If you are a huge fan of terrace space, a flat roof is ideal. It offers a perfect open space for a rooftop garden. Nonetheless, the drainage system needs to be properly maintained to avoid water clogging and roof leakage. Flat roofs are easier to maintain than pitched roofs because of its leveled surface.

A clear analysis of the pros and cons may make it easier to choose.

Pros

1. Flat roofs are budget friendly because of their simple construction process.
2. It has an easier and quicker installation process.
3. Flat roofs are easier to maintain and inspect.
4. It offers occupants the added advantage of usable outdoor space.

Cons

1. Flat roofs might not look appealing in comparison to pitched roofs.
2. Buildings with flat roofs are less stable. Therefore, your roofing contractor will have ensure the building has a stronger foundation.
3. Drainage is a problem. Slopes on the flat roof must be done accurately to drain the water.
4. Maintaining insulation can be tough as it has a flat surface. This is the reason flat roofs are more affected by the extremes of weather conditions.

Pitched Roof

The construction of a pitched roof is done in two separate parts and is joined at ridge at the centre of a building. Pitched slope roofs are more popular for domestic properties. The drainage works with the gravity force because of the slopes. These roofs are edged with eavestrough that channelizes the draining water from the roof. However, the biggest drawback of this type is that you cannot use the terrace. In fact, maintenance is a very costly affair. Where flat roof replacement is an easier task, replacing this type is both tough and time-consuming.

Pros

1. As it is a sloped roof, it can easily repel the snow and rainwater.
2. Materials used to make the pitched roof like asphalt, wood, metal slate, tiles add the elegance to your home.
3. Improve natural thermal efficiency of your living space. The natural ventilation under the top roof layer balances the heat both in the summer and in winter months.
4. Rainwater reuse is possible with the pitched roof. With the alarming water crisis, this roof can be the perfect solution to store the roof water easily.
5. It has better longevity because there are hardly any chances of water clogging and thereby lessening the chances of roof leakage.

Cons

1. The biggest disadvantage is the lack of open roof space.
2. The maintenance is another headache for this type. although sustainable, but roof repairing and replacement can be tough and costly at the same time.
3. Pitched roof places a huge burden on the foundation of the house. Therefore, properties with pitched roof need to have deep-rooted construction.
4. Installation and restoration costs are always higher compared to the flat roof repair and replacement.
5. It is not good for buildings with multiple levels and a complex plan.

Therefore, deciding on which roof to install can be tough mainly because of the equal number of pros and cons offered by both the roofing systems. Where the flat roof is popular for all residential, commercial and industrial region; pitched roofs are mainly used for the residential property. Nonetheless, the choice completely depends on the area you live in.