When you’re designing your dream home, you’ve got plenty of decisions to make from choosing a siding color to designing your roof. One of the most unique styles of a residential roof is a flat roof.
If you’re considering a flat roof design for your roof but you’re still undecided, The Construction Group is here to help. In this post, we’re covering everything you need to know to decide if you want a flat roof for your new construction home. After reading about the pros and cons of flat roof houses, give our residential roofers a call!
Considering a Flat Roof
Like all types of roofs and roofing materials, flat roofs have their advantages and disadvantages. Typically used for commercial applications as well as outbuildings and sheds, flat roofs are also used for modern and contemporary residential building designs. Unlike traditional shingles and architectural roof designs, flat roofs are manufactured using a single-ply membrane and underlayment.
Pros of a Residential Flat Roof
There are quite a few reasons to sing the praises of residential flat roof homes. Here are a few:
1. They’re affordable.
One of the best things about installing a flat roof for your home is the cost. Flat roofs are affordable to install due to both the cost of materials and the relatively speedy installation when compared to other types of roofs. Additionally, flat roofs tend to require infrequent repairs and are quite durable.
2. They’re easy to maintain.
From a maintenance and cleaning perspective, flat roofs are easier to handle than sloped roofs. Unlike sloped roofs, flat roofs can typically be accessed much more safely and easily and they’re fairly simple to clean.
3. They look incredible.
Many homeowners will say the best reason to consider installing a flat roof is the architectural design. Flat roofs can look simple and attractive, making them an excellent choice for modern home constructions.
4. They’re a versatile roofing solution.
When you own a home with a residential flat roof, your roof is a potentially usable space. Have you always dreamed of owning a rooftop deck or garden? A flat roof gives you the option.
5. They’re efficient in the summer months.
Sure, we might have some of the coldest winters in the country. But things can get downright steamy in the summertime, and having an efficient home is important. And a flat roof is one of the most energy-efficient roofs during the summer months.
6. They work well for solar panels.
If you’re thinking of installing solar panels on your roof, a flat roof makes this easier to do.
Cons of Flat Roof Installation
Although flat roofs have plenty of advantages, they aren’t without their disadvantages as well. It’s important to weigh both the pros and cons when deciding whether a flat roof is right for your home since what works well for some homes may not be ideal for others.
These are the main disadvantages of flat roof installation:
1. There aren’t as many styles to choose from.
One of the biggest issues with flat roofs is that the design options are fairly limited. When you install a new architectural or three-tab roof, you have a wide range of profiles and colors to choose from. However, most flat roofs are available in a very slim selection of colors and styles depending on the type of material.
2. They don’t last as long as other roofing materials.
If longevity is high on your roof priority list, you may want to pass on a flat roof. Flat roofs also have a shorter lifespan than most architectural or three-tab shingles. You can expect most flat roofs to last for up to 15 years on average.
3. Traditional rain gutters aren’t sufficient for flat roofs.
Finally, flat roofs can be more difficult to drain than traditional residential roofs. However, don’t let that deter you if you love the idea of a flat roof. Your contractor can recommend the right drainage option for your home.
4. They need extra help when installed in snowy climates.
Because water tends to accumulate on flat roofs, this can lead to ice dam growth as well as snow and ice buildup, especially if your roof isn’t properly draining. However, an experienced roofing contractor can recommend a flat roof system that works well with all of the ice, snow, and wild winter weather we get in Minnesota.
Other Types of Roofs for Minnesota Homes
In addition to flat roofs, The Construction Group installs a complete range of residential roofs including:
● Cedar
● Asphalt
● Flat roof
● Architectural shingles
● And more
Are you thinking of installing a flat roof on your new construction Minnesota home? To get a free quote on residential roof replacement services, contact our roof contractors at 651-731-5857 or connect with us on the web to learn more about roofing options for your home. We can’t wait to help you design your dream home!