The roof’s primary goal is to cover the house from the top. Excitingly, different roofing materials perform differently depending on the installation. The two common roof categories are steep pitch roofs and flat slope roofs.
Most homeowners prefer a steep roof because of its good features but forget to learn more about its cons. For example, the high-pitched roof is suitable for homes in rainy climates because rainwater quickly drains. However, these roofs are costly.
When examining the pros and cons of a steeply pitched roof, you should only buy it if the pros outweigh the cons. Also, check if you can compromise with the disadvantages because some are hard to live with. Before we look at the pros and cons of a high-pitched roof, let us first check out the difference between these two roofs.
What Is The Difference Between Low And Steep Slopes?
Slope refers to the angle of the roof’s pitch. Most homeowners prefer high-pitched roofs, although others install the low sloping design. The low slope or no slope roofs slant at an angle of about 14 degrees.
Pros Of Steep Roof Pitch
When choosing a roof, some homeowners are tempted to select low-pitched roofs over steep-sloped roofs because the latter require more roofing materials. However, the steep-sloped roofs are cost-effective. Besides, they come with many benefits like;
1. Good For A Snowy Environment
When it rains or snows, the water forms small pools on a low-pitched roof because their structure does not allow for fast water drainage, especially without proper gutters. The moisture slowly seeps through the shingles leading to rotting of the seams and weakening the entire roofing system.
However, water pools hardly form on the steep-pitched roofs. The roof’s design allows all the water to run down into the gutters, so the shingles dry faster. Therefore, homeowners living in snowy climates or harsh winters should prioritize steep pitch roofs. The roofing material requires less maintenance and lasts longer.
2. Durability
Steeply pitched roofs are more durable than low-sloped roofs because they dry up fast after rains. Collecting water and forming water pools poses a danger to the shingles, and other inner roofing parts like the rafters and seams, reducing their lifespan.
Besides an extended lifespan, homeowners with steep roofs spend less time and money on roof repairs. The sloped roof is not exposed to many elements, like water.
3. It Serves As Extra Room Or Storage Space
The steep-pitched roof forms an attic which is an extra space in the house. Some homeowners use the attic as a bedroom, while others turn it into a storage area. Therefore, you will have less clutter to deal with and more space to decorate.
4. More Energy Efficiency
Homeowners with a steep roof pitch can benefit from a cold roof system. This type of roof allows airflow in and out of the space, maintaining the correct temperatures.
When the house is cool or warm, the heating and cooling system works less, consuming less energy hence lower energy bills. Besides, a cold roof prevents water and snow damage to the roof.
5. Less Worrying About Debris
Debris and dust hardly pile up on a steeply pitched roof, which reduces the homeowner’s headache. Sometimes the leaves overstay on the roof and begin to rot. Besides, when it rains, the rainwater carries the leaves and dust into the gutters, blocking the system.
When the leaves land on steep roofs, they fall almost immediately. Therefore, homeowners with steep roofs will not suffer the effects of dust and debris on a roofing shingle.
6. Less danger of Pooling Water
Unlike flat roofs, steeply pitched roofs have a high gravity that allows water to flow into the gutters after rains. On the other hand, flat roofs retain moisture for a longer time and take longer to dry.
Besides, the high pitched roofs have well-designed valleys that ensure constant water flow hence minor moisture damage. Therefore, your roof is likely to live longer than the slow-pitched one.
7. Increase aesthetics
One of the significant reasons homeowners choose steep roofs is aesthetics. The top is more visible than the flat roofs, making the house more appealing. Besides, you are likely to sell a house with a steep roof at a higher price.
Additionally, a pitched roof makes your home stand out from the others with flat roofs. The homeowner also has many options for style and decoration, unlike those homes with a flat roof.
Cons Of Steep Pitched Roofs
The advantages of a steeply pitched roof are interesting to look at. However, you should also look at the cons to know the not-so-good characteristics of the roof and see if you can compromise. Some of the cons of a steep roof are;
1. The Design Is traditional
Flat roofs are considered more modern than roofs with steep pitches. So, besides the aesthetics and less maintenance cost, homeowners with modern houses cannot install the steeply pitched roof because their homes should have a low-sloped roof.
2. Fast Clogging Of the Gutters
Debris and dust on the steeply pitched roof don’t collect on the roof but in the gutters. You’ll need constant cleaning, and failure to wash the gutters leads to severe damage. Also, having poorly working gutters can lead to other severe problems like leaks.
3. They Are High Risk And Dangerous
Steep roofs can easily break and collapse when tree branches fall on them. The roofing materials can lead to fatal accidents to the homeowners and the entire house when it happens. Ensure there are no trees near the roof to reduce the chances of accidents.
Final Words
The kind of roof pitch you choose depends on your preference. If you select a steeply pitched roof, ensure you look at the pros and cons of the roof. If the disadvantages are not a big deal and cannot stop you from buying a steeply pitched roof, go for it and hire a qualified installer to do the job.
