Are Flat Slope Roofs Better Than Gable Roofs? Find Out
Are Flat Slope Roofs Better Than Gable Roofs? Find Out
While planning on designing or renovating your home, one of the most important decisions that you need to make is regarding the type of roof that you want to install in your home. Two of the widely used alternatives are flat slope roofs and gable roofs. Each of them comes with its unique set of pros and cons.
Homeowners across the US often ask one question: “Do flat slope roofs do better than a gable roof?” The answer to that question depends on various factors, such as climate, aesthetics, cost that the homeowner can bear, and others. Understanding all these factors will help you make an informed decision.
Advantages That You Can Gain After Installing Flat Slope Roofs
A house with modern architecture and minimalist design usually has flat-slope roofs. They can be easily recognisable, as they start from the surface level, having a slight pitch for water drainage. The installation of a flat slope roof will give your house a clean look and a contemporary appearance. The roof also offers high functionality, as it provides an additional area to create a rooftop garden and install solar panels or even HVAC systems.
From a construction point of view, flat roofs can be built in a short span of time, making them cost-effective for large buildings. Alongside that, the maintenance cost is relatively less compared to other alternatives available in the market due to the surface being easily accessible for inspection and repair.
However, the biggest concern that the homeowners from the areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall have raised is regarding the drainage. If you don’t choose to have waterproofing and slope design for your flat roof, then you might have to deal with stagnant water, which may result in leaks and cause some serious damage to the existing structure.
Gable Roofs: A More Traditional and Durable Alternative
Gable roofs, with their easily recognisable triangular shape, have always been a go-to choice for homeowners. The steepness of the design always allows water and snow to run off easily, which makes it the best choice for residential homes located in areas with heavy precipitation. Besides that, the shape is also great for attic ventilation and regulating the temperature indoors by preventing moisture buildup.
Aesthetically, gable roofs complement almost every architectural style, as they look classic and have a symmetrical design. The installation of gable roofs needs more materials and labour compared to other roofing options, which enhances the overall budget of the homeowner. If the house is located in a hurricane-prone zone, then the extended peak of the gable roof can receive significant damage if not reinforced properly at the time of installation.
Which One to Choose?
The debate on the topic of whether flat slope roofs are better than gable roofs doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer. Each design is known to perform better under certain situations. You can go with flat-slope roofs if your house is located in a dry and urban environment where you can reap the benefits of an additional space on the rooftop.
On the contrary, gable roofs may be a costly alternative but are ideal for homes having traditional designs and are situated in rainy and snowy climate zones, as you will get better drainage and ventilation after installation.
Final Words
The final choice that you are going to make depends solely on the design that you have envisioned for your house. Along with that, you should also keep environmental factors and your budget in mind. Flat roofs may look sleek, but gable roofs are classic and extremely durable. Although it is recommended to consult a professional before determining the one roof design for your home.
Also Read: