When it comes to designing an extension for your home, there are a number of factors to consider. How large do you want the space to be? How should the interior be laid out? How many windows do you want? Sometimes, the exterior of your new room is the last thing on your mind.
But the design of the roof can make one of the biggest differences when it comes to appearance, function and practicality of a new extension. Choosing between having a flat or a pitched roof may initially seem simple, but with so many pros and cons of each design, it can be harder than you may think.
Keep reading as we discuss the difference between the two and help you decide which design is right for you and your home.
Flat roof
While it’s the less common roof design of the two, flat roofs offer a unique and sometimes modern look for many homes and extensions. With the option to add a skylights, flat roofs allow a lot of light into a room, creating a sense of openness and a large amount of space.
A flat roof can also create a clean and seamless transition from the existing property to the extension, reducing the chance of neighbours complaining. The roof can’t be installed to the same height as a pitched roof, decreasing the overbearing effect.
The main benefit of flat roofs is the cost. They’re considerable cheaper than pitched roofs, because they require less materials and less time to install. That said, they typically require more maintenance.
Pitched roof
A pitched roof offers both function and aesthetic benefits for a new extension. The design can be integrated easily into the original look of your home and can be installed to keep with the design of your property.
Pitched roofs can also let in a natural light with skylights adding an airy, spacious feel to your extension. However, the real benefit comes from the added height, with more roof space on a pitched roof.
While they may cost more, the increased longevity and savings on maintenance could be well worth it.
Which is best for me?
Both flat and pitched roofs offer their own benefits to a new extension. It’s important to consider the look of your property, as well as the structural design and your overall expectation for the space.
If you’re working with a smaller area, a pitched roof may work well to open up the area, offering more height. Or if you want to cut back on costs, a flat roof might be the best option.
Whether you opt for a flat roof or pitched roof, it’s important to have it installed properly so you don’t face recurring problems further down the line. DPR Roofing in Barnsley can help provide exactly that. We install strong, high-performing and long-lasting extension roofs for domestic properties across the region, with over 30 years’ experience in the industry.