If you look up at the top of a tall building, you will most likely notice that it has a flat roof. From commercial buildings to multifamily residential properties like apartments, this is a staple of construction on these types of buildings. But did you know that you can also have a flat roof installed on your own home?
There are many advantages of having a flat roof on your home, from having a rooftop garden to saving money on repairs to better energy efficiency. You don’t have to be building a new home to get a flat roof, either—it’s possible to convert from a pitched roof to a flat roof. Here are some reasons why you may want a flat roof on your home.
Aesthetics
The mainstream appeal of a flat roof started to gain steam in the 1950s in the United States, and modern technology has only helped enhance their appeal. A modern-looking home needs a modern roof to go with it, and a flat roof is a good way to give a home a modern aesthetic.
Less expensive repair
A flat roof generally has a lower cost of construction and repair than a pitched roof. This is in part thanks to basic geometry. A pitched roof has two joining sides to make the angle at the top, like a triangle. With one less side, the roof has less surface area. This means less material is used on the roof, which equates to cost savings for both the installation of a new roof and any repair and maintenance to an existing roof.
Versatility and extra space
One of the most exciting things about a flat roof is the versatility of having more space. Having a flat roof opens up the possibility of using the space above your home in a more livable way. For example, you may want to build a rooftop garden to grow vegetables, fruits and flowers. In addition to taking advantage of the direct sunlight, this abundance of plants can also help insulate the home inside.
Another way to take advantage of this modern roof style is to create a patio area. An experienced roofing contractor like Dowd Roofing Co. will be able to help create access points to this new space and can give suggestions on how to make it as functional as possible.
Get help from a professional
As you can see, there are many reasons why a flat roof may be a good fit for your home. But ultimately, the best solution is to consult a roofing professional when making a final decision. When you’re ready to get started on your next roofing project, contact the pros at Dowd Roofing Co. to arrange a consultation. With more than four decades of experience in roof maintenance and roof repair, we know the pros and cons of having a flat roof, as well as other modern roof styles, and will be able to help you make the best decision for your home. We look forward to hearing from you!