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Jun 01, 2023
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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 Between a Pitched and Flat Roof?

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.

 

pitched shingle roof on a house

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.

house with flat roof overhang

 

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.

For more information about our roof services, contact us today. Our team of professionals is ready to serve you.

Browse Our Twin Cities Roof Replacement Projects:

Twin Cities Roof Installation Reviews:

"I have used Andy Lindus and his crew for several home improvement projects and they have always done top notch work and have never failed to please. They have proven they do quality work that they stand behind. Their latest project for me is installing Glenwood Class 4 Shingles for which I have received a discount on my homeowners insurance premiums."

Linda E.
Bloomington, MN
August 14, 2023

"Quality customer service is rare in 2023.  Your employees have been trained so well; it amazes me.  I have dealt with the last 35 plus years of being a full-time realtor but yours has to be #1.  I give out the Lindus name and number all the time."

Marsha F.
Oakdale, MN
August 10, 2023

"The roof and gutters went great and look good.  Your guys work fast.  Thanks for your help!"

Phyllis M.
St. Paul, MN
July 3, 2023

"The guys were the best I have experienced, very professional."

Richard H.
Maplewood, MN
June 28, 2023

"Our house needed new gutters and a new roof. Jake Calleja from Lindus came to our home to evaluate what we needed. He was very professional and thorough. The crews that did the work were very professional and efficient.  This winter we were concerned about ice in our gutters. We called Jake at the start of a business day and by 10:00 there was a service person here to check it out.  We will definitely use Lindus and Jake for any future roof, siding or window needs."

Shannah P.
Bloomington, MN
May 25, 2023

"We are very happy with the gutter and roofing project at our home. It took only two days for the complete roofing (with lifetime shingles) and underlayment project!  The next day the gutter crew came out and completed our 163 feet of LeafGuard® Gutters.  Everyone was friendly knew their job! They were a well-oiled machine."

David S.
Stillwater, MN
May 19, 2023
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