It is not just about the aesthetic appeal of putting a roof over our heads anymore, today’s roof designs can reduce energy costs, improve drainage, increase natural light, and add a sense of beauty to a home.

There is more than just one choice now, pitched, flat, skillion, saw tooth or butterfly roofs are just a few. Whichever roof type you choose for your home, it is essential to make sure the style works completely with your final home design. If we look at Pitched vs Flat roofs…

Pitched Roofs
Pitched roofs as the name suggests, is recognised by its distinct centre pitch where two symmetrical roof panels meet. Pitched roofs are one of the more popular styles in Australia and often seen on modern and Scandi style homes. Aside from being functional, easy to install and relatively cost-effective, pitched roofs allow for greater attic space compared to flat roof styles, and can increase airflow and energy efficiency in a home when built with vaulted ceilings. Pitched roofs also allow for greater water drainage.

Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are horizontal on top of a home and have very little pitch in their shape. Flat roofs are simple in their design, therefore they are widely available, cost-effective and easy to install. It is important to ensure they are adequately waterproofed to avoid problems when it comes to water drainage, leaking and moisture retention. Space is the most desirable positive of a flat roof you can achieve high ceilings throughout your home and the extra space available on the roof for things like solar power panels or water.

A flat roof is going to require less materials and less labour to install. With a lower material cost and fewer hours going into the installation, flat roofs usually cost less than pitched roofs. That said, you do have to consider things like expected maintenance and lifespan. Both flat and pitched roofs require regular maintenance. However, although pitched roofs may be more difficult to clean and inspect, due to the sloped structure, flat roofs often require more maintenance throughout the life of the roof. You might pay more to install a pitched roof, but you could save more over time when you consider maintenance costs and the expected life of the roof.

Weather is an important factor in making your decision. If you live in a relatively dry climate, you might not have to spend as much on maintaining a flat roof as you would in a wetter climate. With that consideration, a flat roof might be a better long-term value in dryer climates. However, in places that get more rain or snow, the additional maintenance might make it more worthwhile to spend the extra money upfront to install a pitched roof.

So, whether it is a flat roof or pitched roof or anything in between we can help you design and construct and style that you desire. Just ask us!