Not all roofs are the same; even those that look alike have differences as to their function and purpose. There are generally two types of roof: the traditional steep-slope roofs and low slope roofs. Although a lot of people are much more familiar with what they commonly see, which is the steep-slope roof, some preferred to use low slope metal roofs because of the benefits they bring.
A low slope roof is also referred to as a flat roof. But don’t be confused as this doesn’t mean that the roof is flat. In fact, in the construction industry, no roof should be flat. In technical terms, a low slope roof is one that has a slope lower than 3-in-12. This means that for every horizontal foot that the roof has, the roof goes up vertically by less than three inches. Fortunately, a good roofing contractor should be able to explain these clearly to you.
Steep-slope roofs don’t require much maintenance work, and they are aesthetically pleasing. Low slope roofs, on the other hand, are more commonly used in buildings and commercial properties. Steep-slope roofs don’t require much maintenance work, and they are aesthetically pleasing. Low slope roofs, on the other hand, are more commonly used in buildings and commercial properties. But what exactly are the advantages and disadvantages of a low slope metal roof? This article gives you an explanation.
Advantages
Enhanced Cooling And Heating Level
While steep-slope roofs create some extra space in the roof that gets filled up with air and aids in cooling and heating, low slope roofs are wind resistant and can be designed to have enhanced cooling capabilities that can reduce the ambient temperature.
Helpful For Maintaining Requirements
Water and ice may stay on the roof slope that creates a high pitch level. As a result, the roof materials need to be checked and maintained regularly. If you have low slope roofs and you have designed it to have proper drainage systems, you can save money from extra maintenance costs.
You can do the regular checkup yourself, too, without having to pay roof specialists. To ensure that a good job is done, you should leave this in their hands. To help you get started here’s roof cleaning in Warner Robins that you can avail of.
Low Installation Costs
Since low slope metal roofs require less material than steep-slope roofs, it is much cheaper and more practical for larger buildings and commercial spaces. The labor costs for installing this type of roofing is also less compared with other types of roofing because workers won’t need to lift large trusses.
You Can Install New Technology
With low slope metal roofs, you can install solar panels and rooftop gardens, which are added features for your commercial space. Rooftop gardens attract people and bring much cooler temperature that is beneficial to the roofs.
Disadvantage:
The disadvantages of a low slope roof are the following:
High Damage Level
If something damages your low slope metal roofs, then the impact also occurs in other parts of the roofing system. Just like different types of roofs, without proper and routine inspections, low slope roofs are prone to leaks and possible collapse.
Standing water, for instance, can penetrate roofing materials, causing weak support.
More Exposure To Harsh Weather Conditions
With a low slope roof, water, ice, and snow can sit longer in it. This makes the roof more susceptible to faster wear-and-tear. When you’ve spent so much on your roof, this is the last thing that you’ll want to happen to it.
Once you see snow and ice sitting on your roof, to avoid leakage, you have to remove these right away.
Generally, with these advantages and disadvantages, it’s still up to you to weigh which one works best for you. Consider these, along with your preferences, so you can make the best decision whether or not a low slope roof works for your needs.
Wrap Up
Many changes are now in place in the construction industry. All these changes are geared towards the betterment of homes and buildings. These improvements are evident not just in the physical aspect of it, but also in the functionality.
The roofing industry hasn’t fallen behind in these as well, in the example of low slope roofs. If you’ve previously heard about these but didn’t know much yet, now you’ve got more insights about it. Depending on the purpose of your property, you have to consider which roofing type will be ideal for you carefully. For homes, the traditional steep-slope roofs are still the best option, but for buildings and commercial properties, you should consider low slope metal roofs. This can help you make a better choice as to whatever kind of roofing it is you wish to use for your construction project.
