Flat Roof vs Pitched Roof. Honest Comparison.
Flat roofs got a bad reputation from cheap pour and roll felt in the 1970s and 80s. Modern flat roof systems are far better. Here is the honest comparison if you are choosing between flat and pitched on an extension or rebuild.
Key takeaways
- Pitched lasts longer in the UK climate, 50 plus years vs 20 to 30 for flat.
- Flat costs less per square metre installed than pitched, because there is no roof structure to build.
- Flat is easier to fit on extensions where pitched would be awkward.
- Modern GRP and EPDM are not the leaky felt of the 1970s.
- Both done properly with the right materials are reliable.
What affects the cost
Flat roofing is priced on the measured area of the deck plus the upstands, trims and outlets that have to be formed. Pitched costs more over the same footprint because there is a structure to build, battens and membrane to fit and tiles or slates to lay, and it usually needs scaffold as well. For most extension jobs flat works out lower. Either way you get the figure in writing once the roof has been measured.
Lifespan
Modern flat roof systems, 20 to 30 years. Pitched in tile or slate, 50 to 100 plus years. Pitched wins on lifespan, no contest.
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Maintenance
Flat roofs need a check once a year, clear leaves and debris, inspect for splits or damage. Pitched roofs need similar frequency, look for slipped tiles and check mortar. Neither is high maintenance if installed properly.
When flat makes sense
Extensions where headroom matters. Garages and porches. Modern designs where flat is the architectural intent. Anywhere a pitched roof would be awkward to tie into the existing house.
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About the author
David Boardman founded Boardman Roofing in 2018. Dave has 25 years on the tools. Read 150+ Google reviews or call 07879 736629.
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150+ Google reviews. Dave has 25 years on the tools.
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