Building a new home of your own is a dream for many. It is one of the things that can fill you with pride. If you’re thinking of building a home, you’re going to have to deal with some tough decisions. One of these is which type of roofing system to choose for your home.
When it comes to roofs, there are two main options you can go for: a pitched roof or a flat roof.
Today we will make a comparison of flat roofs vs pitched roof by differentiating these on various factors. But before we move ahead to the comparison, let us start with the meaning of both these types of roof systems.
What Is A Pitched Roof?
Many of us already have an idea of what a pitched roof is. A pitched roof is a type of roof that has a slant. Thus when you look at a pitched roof from the side, you’ll see that it slopes downward from one end to the other.
The pitch can be shallow or steep. The pitch of a roof is determined by its angle of inclination, which is usually expressed in degrees. For example, if the pitch is below 2:12 then it can be called a low slope.
What Is A Flat Roof?
A flat roof is a roof that is relatively level, rather than slanted. It’s also known as a low-pitch roof. The pitch of a roof is its angle from the horizontal, so a flat roof has no or just a slight pitch.
Flat roofs are common in commercial buildings and now can be seen in some residential homes as well, especially where space is limited or there are no nearby trees that could cause problems with a sloped roof.
Flat Roof Vs Pitched Roof
These are the two major or we can also say the only major types of roofing systems present in the North American market. So it is obvious that theflat roof vs pitched roof topic will always be debated. Here we compare the two so that you can decide on which system you want for your new home.
Cost Factor
This is one of the main things you are going to consider while deciding on a roofing system. As per cost, a factor is concerned then a flat roof system is a cheaper option. Thus given the same area, you are likely to find that the flat roof will cost less than a pitched roof. This is because they’re simpler, and don’t require as much labor or materials.
However, though the upfront cost of a pitched roofing system is high, it covers it in the long run. This is because, unlike a flat roof, it does not require frequent repairs. A flat system becomes highly vulnerable in areas that receive high rainfall or snow and thus gets damaged often.
Maintenance
Both types of roof systems require maintenance. However, a flat roof can require more maintenance than its pitched counterparts in the long run. This is because in a flat roofing structure, there are more chances of water standing on the roof as there is no slope.
A pitched roof is better than a flat roof because it will drain water away much more effectively. This is because this roof is better at keeping water out, so it’s less likely to leak and damage your home.
Because the pitch of your roof allows for the water to flow down and away, you will not have to worry about getting your ceiling wet when it rains. This means that you won’t have to put in as much maintenance as someone who has a flat roof.
This is because flat roof owners may need to regularly clean their ceiling after every downpour. Also, the cost of pitched roof repairs is also lesser when compared with flat roofs.
Image Source: 9to5civil.com
Long-Lasting
As we have seen, a pitched roof is less likely to leak and is able to divert water more effectively due to its design. They have a more sound structure than a flat one. Also,
You’ll also get better protection from high winds with a steeply-pitched structure because wind currents will be deflected away from your home rather than hitting it directly along with strong gusts blowing across its face at certain angles.
All these reasons make a pitched roof more durable and long-lasting than flat roofs. If you have a pitched roof made out of materials like slate or metal tiles then you are assured of protection for decades to come.
This means that you won’t have to replace your roof as often, which saves you money in the long run.
Space And Structure
A pitched roof mostly has a triangle-shaped attic space. Thus the rooftop is generally compact in nature. On the other hand, a flat roof is leveled throughout and has equal spaces for the property. Due to this extra space, flat roofs are a staple for commercial buildings.
Also, if we talk about the structure, then the pitched roof’s structure is better. It is more stable and allows effective drainage and wind resistance.
Visual Appeal
A pitched roof wins this point hands down. A great reason to choose the pitched roof is its ability to create design features. It can be used as a visual feature, such as a gable end; or it can even help you store things like garden tools or sports equipment in your attic area.
The main thing to keep in mind is that this type of roof style is visually striking: if you’re going for an elegant look, then consider using a pitched roof instead! Also, the roofing systems used in pitched roofs such as Shingles, tiles, etc come in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose according to your style.
Flat roofs on the other hand have very limited options to choose from in this regard. They are mostly available in white and black colors.
Which One Should You Choose For Your New Jersey Residence?
We have now touched upon the various factors involved in the flat roof vs pitched roof contest.
While selecting one, you need to think about the type of climate you live in, how much time you spend at home, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do on your roof.
If you are struggling to make a decision on the roof system, we suggest you go for a pitched roof. This is because a state such as New Jersey witnesses extreme weather conditions. Both heavy showers of rain and snow are prevalent here. A flat roof will be difficult to maintain during such circumstances. A pitched roof, on the other hand, is more durable and resistant.
Want To Install The Best Shingle Roofs? We Can Help
If you want to install a pitched roof, then contact the team of Northkit Roofing. We are the best roofers in New Jersey, having a combined experience of more than 25 years in the roofing industry. We can offer to install the best shingle roofs you may ever see. We are a GAF-certified roofer. Thus we are trained and licensed to install the best of GAF’s roofing shingles. Our team is also AtlasPRO certified.
Contact us now at (973) 396-7416 and schedule an appointment with our experts.
