Flat Roof vs Pitched Roof: Which Is Best for Your Business?
Now that you’re deciding on a roofing system for your business property, are you aware of the different options you can use? You’ve most likely looked around and realized most residential buildings have a pitched roof while commercial facilities have flat ones. But do you know why this is so?
If you’re not sure whether to install a flat or pitched roof over your commercial property, several factors can help you in making a decision. Sloped and flat roofs have different pros and cons that make each option most suitable for a particular use. In most cases, pitched roofs offer more benefits when used in homes while flat roofs are better for commercial roofing.
Pitched roofs come in a variety of designs and material make-up. They are sloped at varying angles and degrees to attain the required shape. Flat roofs are just that, but they might be slightly sloped for better drainage. One of the best commercial flat roofing systems in the industry is Duro-Last.
Here are several tips that can help you in deciding between a flat roof vs pitched roof for your business:
Do You Want Aesthetics?
One of the main differences between flat and sloped roofs is their aesthetic looks. Pitched roofs are considered to have a certain traditional aesthetic appeal that most homeowners like. Flat roofs, on the other hand, are just level and not best for visual appeal.
In a business setting, no one is likely to look at your roof’s design and style. So go for a flat or slightly sloped roof.
Do You Need Extra Space?
When considering flat roof vs pitched roof installation, one crucial thing to take into account is whether you need extra space on the rooftop. Space on a flat rooftop can be used for various functions, including inventory storage, equipment housing, and even patios.
If your business needs extra space to store equipment such as HVAC units, or inventory such as manufacturing raw materials, go for a flat roof. It will help you free up space inside your building and save your business money in the long-run. It also allows you to use all the space in your top stories without any constrictions.
What Is the Size of Your Roof?
What is the square footage of your building? In most cases, commercial properties have extensive roofs. If roofers use sloped roofs on such facilities, it becomes difficult to design and install them.
It results in roofs with excessively tall peaks or roofs with many peaks and valleys. This means on top of being challenging to construct; it also becomes expensive because more materials are required. Therefore, it’s best that you go for a flat roof if your business property is large.
What Is Your Budget?
You also need to weigh in on the flat roof vs pitched roof cost during your selection. Generally, pitched roofs cost more than flat roofs and take a lengthier period to install. This is because sloped roofs often have a sophisticated design and require more materials and labor to construct.
Installing a sloped roof on a business with massive square footage would be expensive and uneconomical. According to Homemeguides.sfgate.com, the cost of a 900-square-foot flat roof in an area like San Francisco is only around $6,000 to $7,600. But the price for a pitched roof with similar dimensions is about $7,800 to $9,800.
It’s more economical to go with a flat roofing system for a commercial property. Plus, with a roofing system like Duro-Last, which has a warranty of 15 to 20 years, value for your money is guaranteed.
Are You Looking For Durability?
When compared, flat roofs are thought to have a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs. But is that really true?
One of the main reasons for this is that pitched roofs drain water effectively because of their design. Some people think that flat roofs are risky because they’re likely to have poor drainage. The flatness of a roof poses a higher risk of water damage when ponding water occurs, leaks are more likely to develop.
However, water damage to flat roofs is no longer a problem with roofing systems like Duro-Last. The product is heat welded and has a custom flashing that resists ponding water. When installed by our professional team, the commercial roofing system can last for well over 20 years!
Pitched roofs have many joints and valleys. If they’re not installed well, water seeps through those spaces.
Are You Ready For Maintenance?
Both pitched and flat roofs require regular maintenance. A normal roof maintenance plan includes an inspection in the spring and fall of the year at a minimum. Drains, gutters, and downspouts can become clogged, regular clean-ups are required.
Prompt maintenance and inspection of any roof are necessary to prevent leaks and costly repairs. This can be done in-house or by a professional roofer to ensure its waterproof seal is intact.
You should also watch out for the amount of foot traffic or weight exerted on the roof. Installing walkpad, and limiting roof traffic are 2 easy ways to prevent roof damage.
Do You Want Energy Efficiency?
For a business, flat roofs are a great option when you’re thinking of energy savings. For one, flat roofs make it easy to install solar panels across their surface. The roof allows you to place panels in such an angle that they’re more exposed to sunlight than on a pitched roof.
Flat roofs like Duro-Last can also be used to help with cooling. With a flat white roof, sun rays are reflected and this helps to keep the building’s interior cooler, and not overwork HVAC equipment.
Make The Right Choice Between a Flat Roof vs Pitched Roof
Choosing a flat roof vs pitched roof for your business will depend on what offers more benefits. We strongly recommend a durable, energy-efficient, and affordable roofing system like Duro-Last. Contact us today to learn more about commercial roofing systems, their installation, and what can work best for your property!