A Roof is a Roof, Right?
Republic Roofing can help you in understanding the differences between low slope and steep slope roofing. The fundamental function of every roof is the same, but the way they accomplish it varies considerably. Roofs are essentially the topmost part of a building. But what are their functions? Building roofs protect your structure from the elements, as well as the contents of your building. A roof system adds some insulation value to a building, as well as supports the overall structure.
Is every roof not the same? Not at all. In the modern world, roofs come in a wide range of slopes and are constructed with different materials which can add functional features or aesthetic value depending on the type you choose.
Steep-Slope Roofs
We should talk about understanding the differences between low slope and steep slope roofing. The majority of residential properties have steep-sloped roofs. For a roof to be considered steep, it must have a pitch of 18 degrees or more. Small businesses and homes with a “homelike” look often use this roof design. Among steep-sloped (or pitched) roofs in America, asphalt shingles are the most popular. Metal, slate, wood shakes, natural tile, and composite tile are also popular roofing materials for pitched roofs. Here is a list of the best materials for pitched roofs.
Low-Slope Roofing
Understanding the differences between low slope and steep slope roofing is important. A roof designed to cover low-slope surfaces is called low-slope roofing. A roof pitching below 18 degrees is required to meet low-slope guidelines. In most cases, when people speak of low-slope roofs, they mean flat roofs (or something very similar). Usually, flat or low-slope roofs are a more cost-effective choice for buildings in the commercial or industrial sector because they entail significantly more square footage than residential roofs. Metal, modified bitumen, and buildup roofs, PVC, TPO, and EPDM are some of the materials commonly used for flat roofs and low-slope roofs. Interested in learning more about low-slope and commercial roofing materials? Take a look at this informative blog.
Pros & Cons of a Steep-Slope Roof
A steep slope or pitched roof has what advantages? Understanding the differences between low slope and steep slope roofing is significant. One of the advantages of a steep slope roof is gravity. Pitch roofs are sloped roofs by definition. Rain, snow, and debris are more easily channeled away from your building when your roof has a steeper slope. Sloped roofs have the following benefits:
Better flow of water
With a pitched roof, water cannot go anywhere but downhill, off the roof, and into the gutters. In addition to keeping your roof dry, steep roofs prevent water from accumulating. In addition, it prolongs the lifespan of your roof by preventing mold & mildew development.
Less snow & ice buildup
You can also prevent ice accumulation on a steep roof by having a steep pitch. You want to keep this in mind if you live in an area where there is a lot of snow.
Extra storage space
An A-frame is usually used for pitched roofs. Roof slope determines how much attic space you will have. So the steeper the roof, the more attic space you will have. If having more attic space for storage is important to you, then a steep slope roof is the best choice. Your attic can even be insulated and finished to serve as additional living space, depending on the pitch.
As with anything, having a pitched roof has its pros and cons. You will have a more difficult time accessing and navigating your roof if it is steep. Labor costs could increase for roof installations and roof maintenance will become more difficult. In addition to being unpractical and cost-effective for large commercial buildings and other large facilities, steep-sloped roofs have other drawbacks.
Pros & Cons of Low-Slope Roofing
Low-Slope-Roof
There are many benefits to low-slope and flat roofs as well. But understanding the differences between low slope and steep slope roofing is key. Buildings with a large amount of square footage to cover will benefit from flat roofs. Low-slope roofs are also a good option for covered porches and decks on residential properties. Among the many benefits of a low-slope or flat roof are:
Simpler & cheaper to install
There are fewer building materials required for flat roofs than for steep-sloped roofs because flat roofs do not require a complex rafter system for support. In addition, the ease of installation of flat roofs also tends to lower labor costs. The cost-effectiveness of a flat roof is certainly worth considering if it fits the design of your building.
Can improve heating & air costs
In addition to the creation of attic space, steep-sloped roofs also require the construction of an additional roof. You can significantly reduce the amount of energy that is required to keep your living space comfortable by adding air space. A low-sloped roof can help keep things warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer by limiting the amount of air that can enter the structure.
Offers options for multipurpose roof usage
If you have a pitched roof, you may be able to use the attic for extra storage, but a low-slope roof may offer other ways to use the roof itself. For example, a sun deck can be added more easily to a flat roof than to a pitched roof.
You may have a hard time understanding the differences between low slope and steep slope roofing. The disadvantages of low-slope roofs are the same as those of pitched roofs. Since shingles, tiles, and shakes cannot overlap on low slopes, your options for roofing material are somewhat limited. Furthermore, a low-slope roof is not recommended if you live in an area with heavy snowfall. Even a roof can collapse if the snow is heavy enough. A low-slope roof also requires more upkeep over time. The potential for leaks is higher on flat roofs so inspections and maintenance must be performed more frequently.
Choose Republic Roofing & Restoration for ALL Your Roofing Needs in TN
Republic Roofing & Restoration provides roofing solutions in TN for any pitch of roof or roofing material you require whether it is for residential or commercial use. We can help you in understanding the difference between low slope and steep slope roofing if this is your choice. Our team can work with all the best available pitched roofing materials, as well as flat roofing materials such as PVC, TPO, EPDM, and BUR. Moreover, our standing seam metal roofing is the ideal solution for steep or low-slope roofs!
Republic Roofing & Restoration has operated that way for over 18 years. We treat each client like the only one we have. Collierville, Bartlett, Germantown, and Lakeland, TN regions are all covered by our comprehensive roofing services. We also offer construction and remodeling services. Republic Roofing & Restoration also offers several valuable home improvement services, including gutter and gutter guard installation, siding repair, window and door replacements, deck & porch additions, and blown insulation services. As a result, we do more than just install; we transform entire exteriors!
Take a look at our glowing customer reviews and then give us a call at 901-459-3259 in Collierville and Memphis, TN today. Find out what makes Republic Roofing & Restoration different!