Pitched Root To Flat Roof Line

A common question i get during my home inspections is whether flat roofs are less desirable than sloped roofs.

Pitched root to flat roof line.

Low pitched roofs have the pitch below 4 12 33 3. Low pitched roofs are generally difficult to maintain and you need special materials to prevent leaks. There are a few ways to dealing with a pitched roof if you choose to convert to a flat roof. Flat roofs and pitched roofs exist side by side as equal partners.

Although referred to as flat they are generally gently pitched. Take one look at a pitched roof versus a flat roof and the structural differences are quite obvious. Generally these roofs have a pitch from 1 2 12 to 2 12 from 4 2 to 16 7. Flat roofs operate with the same basic principle but of course their lower angles mean that gravity isn t quite as effective in shedding water rapidly.

You can tear off the existing roof remove the trusses and strengthen the joists. Definition of roofs slopes flat roof a flat roof is defined by having a roof pitch below 15 degrees or a fall of 1 in 40 and can comprise of different products pitched roof a pitched roof is defined by having a roof pitch above 15 degrees or above fall of 1 in 40. This has to happen whether you re just removing the pitched roof or adding another floor with a flat roof. The roof line defines the look of a house more than any other attribute and the shape of the roof line will determine how the roof protects the house from rain wind sun and snow.

These roofs have a pitch less than 4 12. Flat roofs which aren t perfectly flat require a small slope to allow for water runoff. For slopes less than 9 5 we cannot install roof shingles. Flat roof connected to pitch roof a flat roof isn t actually flat.

Pitched roofs have peaks and valleys that direct water downward in very specific directions. These are generally difficult in maintenance as they require special materials to avoid leaks. Increasing roof line pitch roi 50 54 this project doesn t return a lot of bang for your buck either. Generally such roofs have a pitch ranging from 1 2 12 to 2 12.

Flat roofs are not perfectly flat in reality they need a small slope for water runoff. While it does improve the curb appeal of a home and reduce the risk of damaging leaks and expensive repairs changing the roof pitch just doesn t have the same value as adding usable space such as a bedroom bath bonus room etc.