How Roof Pitch Affects Your Roofing Job
Pitched roofs date as far back as ancient Rome, Greece, and China, and are revered for their architectural aesthetic and integrity. In contemporary housing design, pitched roofs far outweigh flat roofs as a preference of homeowners. What is a pitched roof? A pitched roof is taller and more angular than a flat roof and common pitched roof designs include gables, hip, mansard, gambrel, and saltbox. If your home has a pitched roof, then there is space between the highest ceiling in your house to the top of the roof which is often used as an attic or loft.
Pitched roofs are not only preferred due to their appearance, but have many advantages including durability and strength, and improved ventilation. Pitched roof slope factors are the rise (vertical) and the run (horizontal) roof structure. Pitched roof angles are expressed as a ratio of these two factors. For example, a roof with a pitch of 2:12 would mean that for every 12 horizontal feet, the roof rises by 2 feet.
If you are considering a pitched roof for your home, here are some considerations:
Material Selection
Asphalt shingles are a good choice for pitched roofs. They are cost-effective, available in a variety of colors, and can withstand most climates. Metal roofs are also a good choice for sloped roofs, providing durable protection from the elements.
Installation Complexity
Because of their design, pitched roofs are inherently more difficult to install than flat roofs. In fact, the steeper the pitch, the more complex the installation. To ensure roofers’ safety, special equipment might be needed to complete the installation. A sharply pitched roof will also cost more to maintain for these same reasons.
Costs
Pitched roofs cost more to install than flat roofs. This is because a pitched roof installation requires more materials. In addition, due to the complexity of the installation, skilled professionals are required, which will add to the labor costs. Maintaining a pitched roof is less costly than flat roofs, which will save you money in the long run.
Ventilation Requirements
Pitched roofs offer more ventilation than flat roofs because of the space between the top ceiling in your home and the peak of the roof. This extra space improves air circulation by expelling hot air in the summer and drying out cold damp air during the winter. Your roof may need extra ventilation towers if you have a large house or live in a region prone to heavy snowfall.
Snow/Ice Accumulation
The impact of heavy snowfall and ice on your roof is determined by the pitch of your roof. Roofs with a steep pitch can withstand snow load more than a roof with a shallow slope. You may also need to add additional ventilation portals and insulation in order to keep your home warm during the winter.
Premier Can Handle Sloped Roof Replacements
If you want to install or replace a pitched roof, reach out to Premier Roofing. Our skilled roofing crews are familiar with pitched roof installation and will install your roof with care and precision. They are also well-versed in safety best practices to protect themselves and your property. With locations throughout the US, Premier Roofing is your trusted local roofing contractor. Ask us about our free, no-obligation roof inspections.
We’ll inspect the roof on your home, business, or multi-family buildings so you can soon enjoy lower home insurance premiums and peace of mind.
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Premier Roofing was awesome to work with! They did everything they said they would from the beginning. Communication was excellent and my roof looks great! Very pleased with how everything turned out. Definitely recommend Premier to everyone!
– Juanita H
