The Pros & Cons of Flat & Pitched Roofs
The underlying configuration of your roof can influence the beauty and value of your home. In addition to roofing material, one of the most important decisions that needs to be made is whether the roof should be flat or pitched. Allow us to weigh in on the benefits and drawbacks of both options.
What’s the Difference?
A pitched roof is any roof with a peak that slopes downward. Common pitched roof materials include asphalt shingles, metal, and cedar shake. Flat roofs are those without an incline. Popular materials include rubber, tar, and gravel. Between the two styles, pitched roofs are more common. 
Pros of Pitched Roofing: Pitched roofs are built to filter water into the gutters and away from the home, which makes them less prone to leaking. Pitched roofs can have a lifespan as long as 50 years. When installed correctly, little to no maintenance is needed. Pitched roofs offer a timeless look, which many homeowners embrace. This type of roof makes your home more marketable.
Pros of Flat Roofing: Flat roofing is a more cost-effective option than pitched roofing. Built-up flat roofs utilize gravel which is a fire retardant. Some varieties are so easy to install that homeowners are able to do it on their own without hiring a professional. When compared with roofs that have steep pitches, flat roofs provide more interior living space because there are no extreme wall angles in the rooms of the top floors of the home. A flat roof can also provide additional exterior space to entertain.
Learn About the Components That Make Up GAF’s 50-Year Roofing System:
Cons of Pitched Roofing: When compared to a flat roof, a pitched roof is more expensive to install due to materials and labor costs. Those looking to design an ultramodern home often gravitate away from pitched roofs in favor of flat roofs. If a pitched roof has substantial overhangs, they may restrict the amount of natural light that is allowed to enter a home.
Cons of Flat Roofing: Flat roofs are prone to leaking and their origin can be tricky to pinpoint. Recognizing this, many insurance companies charge higher premiums for these types of homes. The lifespan of a flat roof is also shorter than that of a pitched roof. Due to the absence of a significant pitch, a flat roof absorbs a significant amount of heat from the sun. This can result in increased energy bills.
