If you’re looking to replace your roof or build a new home, deciding on the style is an important first step. Your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home and one of the first features people notice, so you want to make a choice you can live with for many years. Your first choice is deciding between a pitched roof and a flat one.

So, what are the differences between a residential flat roof and a pitched roof?

A residential flat roof has little or no slope. It doesn’t have shingles or a peak where the front and back meet at the top. A pitched roof does because it has a slope. It is the more traditional or classic design of residential roofs.

One of the most critical aspects of a roof is water drainage. No matter which style speaks to your personal preference, you need to factor in a competent and manageable drainage system to help your roof last as long as possible.

What are the Pros and Cons of Each?

The pros of a flat roof involve cost, style preference, and use of space. Flat roofs are generally less expensive to install than a pitched roof. They have a more modern or urban look and may appeal to the minimalistic aesthetic. Flat roofs also have the advantage of giving you more space to work with on your home. You can walk on your roof, so you can use that area to store things, create a rooftop garden, or even hang your laundry out to dry.

The cons of a flat roof concern water. If your flat roof doesn’t have an effective drainage system, water from rain and snow pools can create all kinds of problems. Mildew may grow and leaks may form which could be detrimental to your entire home. Flat roofs require diligent maintenance to stay in good shape.

Pitched roofs generally don’t have problems with pooling water because they are designed to make rain and snow slide right off of them. This is a big advantage of a pitched roof.

Another pro of a pitched roof is how it looks. It has the aesthetic of a more classic or traditional home.

The lifespan of a pitched roof can be up to twice that of a flat roof because of the materials used. Although maintenance of any roof is important, a pitched roof doesn’t require inspections as often as flat ones because there’s no danger of pooling.

The biggest con of a pitched roof is the cost. Because of the materials involved, a new pitched roof usually costs more than a flat roof. It may also take longer to install.

How do you know which is best?

Which one is best for you depends on your preferences. If you like the more modern look, a flat roof may be just the right fit. But if you prefer a more classic home, stick with the pitched roof.

You also need to consider price and maintenance. Flat roofs can be less expensive but require more frequent inspections. Pitched roofs may be more expensive to install, but they last longer and aren’t as high-maintenance.

Which is better for a home in Michigan?

Because of the amount of water the Midwest receives, a pitched roof is a better choice for a home in Michigan. This type of roof uses gravity to move snow and rain off of the home. But if you are in love with the flat roof look, a great drainage system could do the trick for your new roof.

The difference between a pitched roof and a flat one isn’t just the physical design, but also the price and the maintenance. Which one is right for you depends on which appeals to you the most.

Go with the Best in Roofing and Home Improvement Services

To get the most value and function from your roof, it needs the expertise of an experienced roofing contractor. Consider the home improvement experts at Excel Home Improvement in Romulus, where we work on all types of roofs, pitched and flat alike.

We specialize in roof installation, siding installation, gutter systems and more and only use the best products that are built to last because we know how important it is to feel safe, dry and warm inside your home no matter what the weather is on the outside.

Get a Free Estimate on any of our exterior home improvement services before the cold winter weather arrives and stays for a while!