When considering the best roofing options for your home in Kitchener, a flat roof is not often the first choice. This particular roof type is known best in commercial settings, however, flat roofs offer an interesting, unique appeal. In fact, many homeowners have started opting for modern flat roofs over traditional pitched roofs. Today, we’ll take a closer look at this new movement to find out if a flat roof is right for you.
Flat Roof vs. Pitched Roof
There are some obvious differences between flat and pitched roofs. Let’s quickly compare them side-by-side.
Flat Roof
- Modern appearance
- Minimal slope
- Simple construction which reduces costs
- Generally shorter installation time
Pitched Roof
- Classic appearance
- Varying slopes
- Good natural drainage
What is Drainage Like for a Flat Roof?
A flat roof lacks natural drainage, so interior drains, scuppers, and gutters are commonly relied on for preventing water build-up and damage. Flat roofs may appear flat but they actually have a very slight slope which helps it direct water into artificial drainage points, such as scuppers.
Pros and Cons of a Flat Roof
Pros of a Flat Roof
- Cost-Effective Installation: Requires less materials and less work than most pitched roofs.
- Safe and Accessible: Roofs with a steep slope are generally more dangerous to work on and harder to access than a flat roof.
- Easier Maintenance: Maintenance of a flat roof can be easier because it doesn’t have a steep slope to complicate gutter cleaning and repairs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A flat roof can give your home a sleek, modern look, which makes it stick out visually compared to more traditional roof choices.
- Usable Space: Since flat roofs are easy to access, many homeowners with flat roofs make it into a patio space or garden. The space is also perfect for installing solar panels.
Cons of a Flat Roof
- Lacks Natural Drainage: Without a steep slope, flat roofs don’t drain as efficiently.
- Shorter Lifespan: Heavy rain and snow can make flat roofs have a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs.
- More Maintenance: With drainage being an issue, maintenance and inspections are more common to ensure artificial drainage points are working effectively.
Is a Flat Roof Right for Your Home?
Is a Flat Roof Right for Your Home’s Aesthetics?
First, think about the architectural style of your property. Flat roofs traditionally fit well with modern and minimalist designs but may not align with more classic home styles. We can help you figure out if a flat roof will match your home’s exterior style and what other options are available for aesthetic enhancements.
Is a Flat Roof Right for Kitchener Climates?
Especially recently, Kitchener weather is becoming more intense and sporadic. Heavy rainfall is common, and snow is simply a given. We don’t often recommend transitioning to flat roofing because of this. If you’re intent on having a flat roof, be prepared to consistently evaluate the roof’s drainage after heavy rain or snow to prevent water damage.
If you want a flat roof purely for the aesthetics, we can help you find a better and more effective option.
Is a Flat Roof Right for Your Home’s Space?
Flat roofs are a great choice for expanding your outdoor space. If you lack yard and patio space, a flat roof might be right for your home! However, if you already have significant outdoor space that you aren’t really using, it might not be necessary.