Whether you’re building a new home, renovating your business, or you need a roof replacement, working out which type of roofing to go for can be difficult. After all, the roof is what protects your property from external elements and ensures that you are safely sheltered; choosing the wrong type of roofing can also be extremely expensive to rectify and the cost of a new roof is high. Roofing has an important part to play when it comes to the overall appearance of your home as well. The right new roof can completely transform the appearance of any building while, of course, providing better shelter.
When it comes to roofing, there are a few different options to consider which can make it difficult to choose the best option for your project. For your convenience, and to make things that little bit easier when choosing your roofing, we have put together a guide to the different types of roofing for your home. From standard pitched roofs to modern, environmentally friendly green roofs, the world of roofing can be somewhat confusing. Read on for a breakdown of the different types of roofing available for your home.
Pitched roof
A pitched roof, or a sloping roof, is the most common type of roof and is generally regarded as the cheapest roofing option. A pitched roof is, essentially, a roof that slopes downwards, typically in two parts at an angle from a central ridge. The earliest forms of pitched roof were constructed with simple materials such as bamboo, stone and leaf, however, today, roof tiles are used as a versatile and visually-appealing solution.
Due to the sloped nature of the roof, rainwater is directed from the roof surface away from the building and into the guttering system – something that can often be problematic with flat roofs. There is no area for stagnant water to collect and seep through into your property’s walls.
One of the main advantages of a pitched roof is that it can be easily converted to create extra living space within the home, such as an attic bedroom, playroom or an office. Not only does this give you extra space in your home, but it can also boost the value of your property significantly.
Pitched roofs are the traditional roofing solution; they are known for their durability and longevity, which means that they require less maintenance and, generally, need repairing far less frequently than other roofing types. Pitched roofs come in all different shapes and sizes to suit the style and design of any property. They also offer good thermal insulation as the size of the surface exposed to the exterior is limited.
Flat roof
A flat roof is another common and popular form of roofing, mainly because it is another low-cost option. Pitched at a very low angle to prevent water from gathering on the surface of the roof, a flat roof is not actually completely flat, but rather slightly angled. Flat roofs are ideal for those looking to create a modern home; they often require fewer materials than pitched roof solutions, meaning that they are typically the more cost-effective option too. In fact, a full flat roof replacement can often take just one day.
Flat roofs have many advantages. They are well-known for their space saving features and compact design, and can be utilised in a number of different ways, from using the space as a place to relax or planting a roof garden on top. In addition to this, installing a flat roof is a great way to increase the interior space inside your home and make your space more versatile. Finished attics, large spacious rooms and top floor apartments are all possible with flat roofs – something that you simply cannot achieve when you have a pitched roof and sloped walls in your home.
As long as it is adequately maintained, a flat roof will last for many years. They are more accessible than pitched roofs that are sloped, meaning that they are far easier to get onto to inspect. It is generally recommended that roofs are inspected twice a year; this is extremely easy to do on a flat roof. They are far safer to check than pitched roofs; just remember to be very careful as climbing on any roof can be dangerous.
Green roof
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in both domestic and commercial properties. A green roof is a top surface of a building that is covered with vegetation, planted over a waterproofing membrane. As green roofs are covered with plants and vegetation, they offer a number of benefits to any building, some of which we discuss below.
Installing a green roof can double, even triple, the life expectancy of your rooftop; this is because the layer of green vegetation acts as an additional barrier, protecting the waterproof membrane underneath. Remember, your roof has a lot to put up with up: rain, heat, wind, snow, ultraviolet light, fluctuating temperatures and more. Adding an extra layer of vegetation essentially equates to adding an extra layer of protection.
This extra layer also adds extra insulation on your roof, helping to keep heat inside your house and the cold air out. A green roof also protects your home from direct solar heat, helping to keep your property cool and your energy bills low. Choosing a green roof for your property will also help to improve the overall air quality. Air pollution is a major problem in the UK, particularly in large cities; investing in a green roof will help to reduce sulfur dioxide, dust particles and nitrous acid in the air.
During rainy seasons, we have all experienced water running excessively off our roofs and even leaks and floods. When you choose a green roof, you can rest assured that rainfall is stored in plants and substrate and then naturally released back into the environment. This makes for a particularly sustainable drainage system, reducing the risk of flooding and leaks.
How to care for a new roof
Once you have had a new roof installed, you may be wondering how to best maintain it to avoid any costly repairs or issues. Follow our top tips below to ensure that you take care of your roof properly.
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Inspect regularly. It is important that you keep an eye on your roof and inspect it regularly to catch any problems or issues early. We recommend contacting a professional roofer to carry out an annual inspection to minimise any damage to your roof. At other times of the year, you should always keep an eye out for any signs of damage yourself.
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Keep your roof clean. Keep an eye out for any growths or vegetation on your roof. This could be a sign that water is being held in your roof which could lead to costly leaks and further repairs. You should also ensure that any overhanging trees are cut back to prevent leaves, branches or other debris from falling on your roof and causing damage.
James Dunn Roofing: your reliable roofing company in Oxford
With over 35 years of experience, James Dunn Roofing Ltd is the premier choice for roofing in Oxford. We serve both domestic and commercial clients, offering a range of different roofing services including repairs and maintenance. We pride ourselves on our team of skilled and experienced technicians and craftsmen who are highly trained to tackle any roofing project, from simple extension projects to full warehouse roof renovations.
James Dunn Roofing Ltd is a family-run company that understands the importance of excellent customer service and quality products, which is why we always go above and beyond to deliver the very best results. For all levels of roof installation, repair, maintenance or building work, including electrics, plumbing, painting and decorating, and window installation, plus kitchen or bathroom installations, look no further than us. For more information about our services, visit our website or get in touch today.