Is a Flat Roof Cheaper Than a Pitched Roof?

A lot of people ask “Is a flat roof cheaper than a pitched roof? This is not always the case. In this blog we will discuss all the pros and cons of both to help you determine which roofing option will be best for your needs. You will learn more about the differences between flat and pitched roofing styles to find out which one is best for you.

What is a Pitched Roof?

Pitch roofs are the most common type of roof that you will see when you consider a typical home. A pitched roof is one that slopes downwards. It usually has two sections at an angle to a central ridge but can also have one section from one edge. The roof’s pitch is the ratio of its vertical rise to its horizontal span. This is an indicator of its steepness.

A pitched roof is different from a flat roof. Technically, a pitched roof is any roof with less than 10 degrees. However, they are often much lower and expressed as a gradient. It can range anywhere from 1:40 up to 1:80.

Pros of a Pitched Roof

• Flat roofs have a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs. A pitched roof can last between 20 and 50 years. It can vary depending on the roofing material used and other climate factors.
• A pitched roof has another advantage: they don’t need much maintenance. The sloped design of a pitched roof helps reduce the chance of water damage and precipitation.

Cons of a Pitched Roof

• A pitched roof has one major disadvantage: the installation cost is more expensive than a flat roof.
• Pitch roofs are a problem for people who appreciate modern design. They can be a detriment to modern facades.

What is a Flat Roof?

Flat roofs are roofs that are completely or nearly level. Flat roofs can be described as flat, but they are often laid to a fall to allow rainwater to run off the lower side. They are usually designed to have a minimum drop of 1:40. This should, given the site inaccuracies, result in a minimum drop of at least 1;80 in the final construction. This contrasts with a pitched roof that slopes.

Pros of a Flat Roof

• Flat roofs have a modern aesthetic that is unique to modern structures.
• There are very low up-front materials costs. Flat roofs are typically less expensive than a pitched roof installation. This is because flat roofing materials come in larger roles than pitched roofing materials that come in smaller sheets. A roof decking system requires less lumber.
• Flat roofing systems are more affordable than repairs.
• Because flat roofs don’t have slope, they are easier to maintain and repair. There is also less chance of slipping or falling.

Cons of a Flat Roof

• Flat roofs are more expensive than pitched roofs and require more maintenance. Flat roofs last an average of 10 years.
• Flat roofs are susceptible to water damage from pooling water after rain and lingering rainfall.
• To support large flat roofs, structurally there are additional support beams inside the home.
• Flat roofs are less efficient than pitched roofs and do not permit attic insulation.
• Because of their lower cost and ability to hold heavy equipment like air conditioners, flat roofs are still a popular choice for commercial buildings. Flat roofs are also ideal for adding rooftop bars, gardens, and other amenities that are growing in popularity in multi-family or commercial buildings.

Get a Free Estimate

As a homeowner, you might be asking yourself, Is a flat roof cheaper than a pitched roof? Both styles of roofs are effective and suit different needs. No matter what style you choose, it is important to ensure that your roof is made with top quality materials and is installed by an expert roofing contractor. This will ensure that your roofing system lasts a lifetime. Roofing Co’s experts use building science to provide more than just a roof. Call us today!