Flat roof vs Shingle roof

The thing that everyone faces when they go to construct or buy a new building for commercial or residential purposes is which kind of roof to use, and which kind of roof will be the best.

You generally have two choices: a flat roof or a shingle roof.  But the question remains about which one to use for your particular project. Let’s see the difference between shingle roofs and flat roofs and the good and the bad side them.

Flat roof or shingle roof?

A flat roof doesn’t necessarily mean it’s flat. As we all know, all roofs need some kind of slope in order to drain the water after the rain. When choosing your home, you need to check on some factors such as-

1. The kind of residential or commercial structure you’re dealing with
2. How much ongoing upkeep you’re willing to perform on your roof
3. How much cash you’re prepared to put down for a new roof, both initially and over time
4. The design of the house or business you are constructing

The decision between a flat or shingle roof ultimately boils down to personal preference. Shingle roofs have a reputation for lasting longer and requiring less upkeep over time, demonstrating excellent lifetime value. But a flat roof is still a fantastic alternative if you like the way they appear and want a cheap installation.

About flat roof

A roof without a peak is said to have a flat roof. However, while having a level surface, it may have been engineered with a very little slope that directs rainwater onto the building’s gutter system. The majority of modern architectural and commercial structures have flat roofs. In Bangladesh, we mostly see this roof.

Pros of flat roof

A flat roof is frequently considered to be the best choice. The benefits of choosing flat roofs are-

• Installing a flat roof is less costly than a shingle roof. This is due to the fact that it has a simpler structural design and uses fewer materials. Additionally, this implies that flat roofs may be constructed more quickly, which is one of the reasons why many company owners find them appealing.
• For any structure, whether it be residential or commercial, the current tendency is for clean, straight, minimalist lines. A flat roof can best achieve that style if that’s what you’re striving for.
• There is some debate on whether a building has a greater room with a pitched roof versus a flat roof. In any case, a flat roof does provide a more unified, functional environment for a whole structure.

Due to the ability to add extra offices and storage space, a flat roof is a fantastic option for commercial usage. The top floor of a structure with a flat roof is the same size and form as the lower levels, however, a building with a pitched roof can have a triangular attic.

Cons of flat roof

Although a flat roof has a lower initial cost and can give the beauty that many houses and business owners desire, they aren’t always the best practical choice for the following reasons:

• Particularly for structures in regions with heavy rainfall, a flat roof raises several structural issues. To make sure you don’t overlook any significant issues with your roof, it is advised that you get your flat roof examined at least once a year. Being able to walk on flat roofs makes inspections very simple, so having a roofer visit your building frequently won’t break the bank.
• The typical lifespan of a flat roof is 10 years. The anticipated lifespan of a shingle roof is much shorter, therefore you’ll have to spend more money on roofing over many years. This might not be the greatest option for you if you intend to live in your house or place of business for an extended period of time.
• The typical lifespan of a flat roof is 10 years. The anticipated lifespan of a shingle roof is much shorter, therefore you’ll have to spend more money on roofing over many years. This might not be the greatest option for you if you intend to live in your house or place of business for an extended period of time.

Read more: How To Choose a Roofing Contractor 

About shingle roof

Any kind of roof with a peak is a shingle roof. It often slopes downhill in two sections that meet at an angle in the middle of the roof’s crest. It is what gives a house its triangle form at the top and frequently results in lofty attics inside.

Pros of shingle roof

You can undoubtedly guess that there are numerous reasons why many homeowners and business owners select shingle roofs as they are more prevalent than flat roofs. The benefits of shingle roofs can be listed below:

• Shingle roofs have a classic, comfortable appearance. You’ll probably blend in well with the neighborhood if you choose one for your residence. And by selecting one for your business structure, you’ll probably be able to welcome clients with a special sense of warmth and friendliness.
• The typical pitched roof made of asphalt shingles can endure up to 20 years or longer. The kind of roofing material, the environment, and the amount of upkeep will all have an impact, but overall, this is a fantastic long-term investment.
• Shingle roofs are made to easily shed precipitation, such as rain. They are constructed with a pitch to lessen the damage a roof sustains and the likelihood of leaks developing over time. Compared to a flat roof, your sloping roof will require significantly less care during its lifetime.
• Choosing a pitched type will help you spend less overall even though new roofs are almost always a significant expense.

Cons of shingle roof

Even though there are pros, it also has its drawbacks. Some of the noticeable ones are:

• The initial cost of installing a shingle roof is often higher than that of a flat roof. Due to the added time and materials needed to create a shingle roof, the cost is higher.
• A shingle roof is less modern and less aesthetic per se. A shingle roof might not match the desired architectural style for a contemporary, modern home or structure that you are creating. A flat roof could be more sensible and harmonize with the building’s general design.

From Bangladesh’s perspective, most buildings are made off of flat roofs but you can always consider a shingle roof too based on your needs( visit: Roof Repair Service ). Check the pros and cons and see which one is ideal for your building.