The importance of the roof in the completion of a house can never be overstated. Needless to say, its design is a very critical part in the construction of a house or any building. Thanks to the advanced technology available today, the design and construction of residential roofing systems has become much easier and more convenient. The materials and the arrangement of roofing systems are being carefully designed to achieve the desired cost, lifespan, and aesthetics of a roof. A sloped roof is one of the most popular roofing solutions for many homes in our area.
The amount of the vertical rise per horizontal length of a roof is considered its slope. In terms of its aesthetics, steeper sloped roofs appear to be more visually appealing. Conveniently, steeper sloped roofs also tend to last longer because their design allows for a lesser chance of ice damming. The selection for materials in designing a roof is highly dependent on its slope, and can include asphalt shingles, slate, and metal roofing. Generally, steep sloped roofs are more preferable than flat roofs. However, this doesn't mean that pitched roofs don't have their drawbacks. There still can be issues that you have to look out for if you currently have or are considering a sloped roof.
1. Cost
A pitched roof requires additional materials because of its complex design. Aside from that, its construction takes longer because it is not easy to work in a steep sloped roof. The construction time will likely be extended and this will cost more when it comes to your roofing contractors. Because of the steep slope of the roof, there is a greater personal risk for roofers while doing the construction and that's the reason why they may charge extra for projects involving sloped roofs. Repairs and maintenance for sloped roofs can be more costly as well.
2. Structure
A pitched roof demands additional details in creating the structure of the roof. Additional concerns, such as the implications for the depth of footings in your home's foundation, have to be paid attention to. This is the reason why it is not that easy to replace a flat roof with a pitched one in already existing structures.
3. Design
The design of the roof has a huge bearing in the overall appearance of the house or a building. Flat roofs are more straightforward than pitched roofs. That is the reason why designing flat roofs can be a lot easier. When you build a sloped roof, you have to put into consideration whether such a roof is appropriate for your property, and how steep its slope should be.
4. Heating costs
Highly steeped roofs demand for more fuel in heating up your home which makes it a less eco-friendly design than lower sloped roofs. When hot air rises, it fills up the larger space created by your very steep roof. Thus, it requires additional heating to keep your house warm.
Are you considering replacing or repairing a sloped roof? Click here for a free estimate from Cherry & Clark.
