The two main roof pitches are steep slopes and low slope roofs. However, choosing the roof pitch to install can be challenging for homeowners because they both have different features, pros, and cons. Besides, each roof pitch is beneficial in unique circumstances.
For example, steep slope roofs are appropriate for homes in climates with harsh winters that are rainy and snowy. Low slope roofs, on the other hand, are common in hot climates. That implies you must examine the climate of your region when deciding which one to use.
Since these two roof slopes have different characteristics, it is essential to understand them. However, if you are unsure of the roof pitch to choose, contact professionals at Roof Master for advice. They know the different roof pitches and their importance.
Without further ado, let us get started.
Low-Sloped Roofs
Low sloped roofs are often flat or lower. They are available in various materials like metal shingles and sheets, rubber membranes, polymer-modified bitumen sheet membranes, and single-ply membranes.
Advantages of Low-Sloped Roofing
These roofs have several advantages, which guide most homeowners when buying. Some of the benefits you get from a low-sloped roof are;
1. Energy Efficiency
Low sloped roofs regulate the air exchange in the home. Houses with these roofs are cool in summer and warm during winter; hence less energy is needed to cool and warm the house. When the HVAC does less work, there is less energy usage and lower bills.
2. Cheap and Easy to Install
Low sloped roofs are lightweight, making them easier and cheaper to install than steep slope roofs. Besides, the steep roof’s slope requires a lot of material, hence the complications and expenses in installation. Roofers also charge lower labor costs on low sloped roofs because of the simplicity of installation.
3. Easy to Clean
The flatness of the low sloped roofs makes them easy to clean. Homeowners can quickly go up the roof and remove any dirt and debris, to maintain the roof’s aesthetics and proper functioning of the gutters. However, observe safety before climbing the roof.
Disadvantages of Low-Sloped Roofs
Although the advantages of the low sloped roofs are likely to excite you, ensure you look at the disadvantages too. If you can compromise with the downsides, buy a low-sloped roof. Some of the disadvantages are;
1. Water Pooling and Snow Buildup
The roof’s lack of slope leads to water pooling and snow buildup on the shingles. Over time, moisture starts to sip into the inner roof through the shingles, leading to expensive moisture damage and roof leaks.
2. Requires Regular Maintenance
Low-sloped roofs are more exposed to elements, so they need more regular repairs. Besides, other climatic elements like water and snow can damage the roof, weakening the roof, and the best remedy is to replace it.
Steep Sloped Roofs
The opposite of low-sloped roofs is steep-sloped roofs. These are raised and often suited for snowy areas or areas with harsh winters. Low and steep-sloped roofs differ in many things, including the pros and cons. Check this out.
Pros of Steep Roof Pitch
1. It Is Suitable for a Snowy Environment
Since steep-sloped roofs are built at an angle, they do not allow water pooling. Therefore, if you live in snowy areas, you will be at peace than if you had flat roofs. Besides, snow hardly stays on the shingles because it will roll and fall, hence fewer roof problems.
2. Durability
Steeply pitched roofs are more durable than their counterparts because they don’t suffer water pools when it rains. Besides, the roof is easy to maintain, meaning it will last longer. Similarly, leaves and debris easily fall off the roof, ensuring no stains on the shingles.
3. It Serves as Extra Room or Storage Space
With a steeply pitched roof, you get an extra space called an attic. Homeowners use the attics as storage spaces, while others create an extra room like a bedroom. However, ensure perfect ventilation in the attic to lengthen your roof’s lifespan.
4. Help In Improving Energy Efficiency
You can easily install a cold roof system when your home has a steeply pitched roof. Besides, this roof type ensures correct temperatures in the house, and you can also install temperature regulation machines like an HVAC system.
5. Less Worry About Debris
A steeply pitched roof allows debris and leaves to fall off of the roof, maintaining cleanliness. This debris costs some money to clean, leading to roof leaks.
Also, debris on low-slope roofs interrupts water flow because they block the gutters. The water will start slipping through the shingles, causing rotting and roof weakening. Homeowners whose houses have steep roofs don’t experience this.
6. Improved Curb Appeal
People on the road can easily see your steep roof when passing. If your roof has bright color combinations, it gets noticed. Besides, beautiful shingles and iron sheets are more easily detected on high sloped roofs than on flat ones.
Cons of Steep Pitched Roofs
Besides the benefits of steeply pitched roofs, this roof design has some downsides. Some of the cons are;
1. The Design Is Less Modern
In terms of design, flat roofs are considered more modern than roofs with steep pitches. Therefore, the roof could lower your home’s value. Besides, houses with old architectural roof designs don’t attract buyers quickly.
2. They Lead to Fast Clogging of Your Gutters
One big issue with high-pitched roofs is that gutters must be cleaned on a regular basis. The debris is blown by the wind and rainwater into the gutters, reducing their efficiency. A poor drainage system leads to other roof problems like leaks.
3. They Are High Risk and Dangerous
When tree branches and strong storms damage steep roofs, accessing the roof for repairs can be dangerous. It requires a qualified roofer to climb up the ladder and solve the problem.
4. They Are Costly to Install
Due to their complexity and heavy materials, steeply pitched roofs are expensive to install. That’s because fixing roofing materials on the roof seems risky due to the roof’s steepness. You should also hire a qualified roofer for your roof to function correctly.
Final Words
Choosing between steep or low-pitched roofs can be challenging. However, checking the different pros and cons will help you make a good choice. Hopefully, these benefits and disadvantages will help you distinguish between these two roof styles.
