Flat roof vs. pitched roof - pros and cons

Flat roof design in Nigeria is becoming a signature roof style. A flat roof has many perks; the same applies to the pitched roof. This article will show you a detailed comparison of the roof types and enable you to make the best decisions.

Lets get to it.

1. What is a Flat roof?

A flat roof is a low-slope roof. It typically has an angle less than 10 degrees. Flat roof design in Nigeria is now more popular for residential homes because of its versatility and minimalist style.They are also typical for commercial and industrial buildings.

2. What are the advantages of flat roofs?

2.1 Modern aesthetic

Flat roofs are simple but stylish. They give your building a clean and minimal appearance without too much design. The flat roof design delivers an excellent contemporary and minimalist design.

2.2 Affordable installation

Flat roof designs are more affordable to install than pitched roof designs. They require less materials and time for installation. A flat roof is famous not only because of its minimalist appeal but also because its easy and fast to install.

2.3 Accessibility

Flat roof designs make access easy. Maintenance and repair are usually faster with a flat roof because of the easy access.

2.4 Extra space

The surface of a flat roof can be built to accommodate various activities. It can be used as a relaxation spot or for solar panels. Also, it is easier to add an extra building with a flat roof design.

3. What are the disadvantages of a flat roof?

Although flat roof designs are affordable, simple to install, stylish, and accessible, here are a few cons with choosing a flat roof design.

3.1 Drainage issues

Flat roofs are liable to water pooling. If the flat roof is not installed correctly, it can evolve into leaks and more structural problems. Flat roofs have a slope but require professional plumbing to channel the water away from the houses structure.

3.2 Shorter life cycle

Unlike the pitched roof design, you are more likely to change your flat roof every decade. If you cant afford to change your roofing sheet after building, dont choose a dont roof design.

3.3 High maintenance

Inspecting your flat roofing at least once a year to know its status is recommended. A flat roof requires more structural maintenance, mainly if you experience excess rainfall.

4. What is a pitched roof?

A pitched roof is any type of roof with a sloping surface. Unlike a flat, horizontal roof, a pitched roof has an angle of more than 10 degrees. Pitched roofs are popular when constructing residential homes in many countries.

One of the most popular pitched roof styles is the gable roof. The gable roof has a triangular or A shape, that is, two sloping surfaces that meet at a ridge. It’s available in different designs such as Box, Open, Dutch, Front Gable, etc.

Another popular pitched roof design is the Hip roof, the best roofing design for houses in high-wind regions.

5. What are the advantages of a pitched roof?

5.1 Longer lifespan

Different roofing sheets are used for pitched roofing. Examples include aluminum roofing sheets, asphalt shingles, swiss roofing sheets, etc.

Pitched roofs have superior drainage capacity than flat roofs. Depending on your roofing material, maintenance, and climate condition, pitched roofing can last for over 20 years.

5.2 Minimal maintenance

Pitched roofs require less maintenance because they are structured to avoid leaks and with proper drainage. The slope prevents water accumulation, which can lead to more issues.

5.3 Beautiful aesthetics

If you want that traditional or timeless charm, choose pitched roofing. These roof designs bring functionality and a timeless aesthetic to your building.

6. What are the disadvantages of a pitched roof?

6.1 High installation cost

Compared with the flat roof, the pitched roof is more expensive. It requires more material, time, and labor. This is also because of the complexity of some pitched roofing designs.

6.2 Less contemporary

Recently, more homeowners are choosing the minimalist style of a flat roof, making this out of vogue. A flat roof fits the design better if you desire a modern building.

6.3 Space

The pitched roofing has a steep pitch, which restricts the use of the upper part of the building. Also, a flat roof gives you an extra open space you can convert to suit you.

7. What are the advantages of flat roofs over pitched roofs?

The flat roof and pitched roof have their unique designs. Your choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

However, some advantages of flat roofing are cost-effective installation, extra utilizable space, modern aesthetics, accessibility, resistance, etc.

With all these advantages of flat roofs over pitched roofs, flat roofs still have specific challenges.

8. Final words

Before choosing the roof design for your next project, consider your climate condition, the building style, and budget and consult a professional. Your decision can either lead to a positive or negative implication shortly.

Daibau.ng has licensed professionals to cover your roofing project. We have the best professionals in the industry near you in Nigeria.

To schedule a professional inspection or more inquiries, click the link below.