Generally, there are two types of roofs: pitched and flat roofs. Each of these roofs poses unique roof replacement challenges. Here, we tell you how the two roofs are replaced and the kind of challenges they pose. But first, let’s understand their difference.

Differences Between a Flat Roof and a Sloped Roof

Sloped Roof

A sloped roof is one that has a slanting or pitched angle. In most cases, the incline is in two parts that are separated by a ridge in the middle of the roof. The slope is the one that determines the steepness of a roof. To measure your roof’s slope, you divide the height of the roof by its horizontal depth. This roof can be made from different kinds of materials, including asphalt shingles, wood shingles, wood shakes, and metal sheets.

Flat Roof

A flat roof is a roof that is almost level. However, although they are described as flat, these roofs have a slight slope that allows the drainage of water. Without this slope, the flat roof will have pools of water when it rains. A flat roof can be made from various roofing materials, including tar, gravel, modified Bitium, PVC, TPO, and EPDM.

Differences in a Flat Roof and a Sloped Roof Replacement

Accessibility

Ordinarily, a flat roof is more accessible than a pitched roof. The roofing contractor will have fewer difficulties mounting a flat roof because they do not have to worry about falling off. Climbing a pitched roof is a struggle because you have to balance your steps to avoid falling off carefully. You might have to set up another structure to make the roof’s accessibility easier.

Risk

The risk of falling off from a sloped roof is higher than a flat roof. The roofing contractor has to use specialized tools and set up additional structures to work on the roof safely. But with a flat roof, you do not have to set up any additional structures because you can safely stand on the roof without falling off.

Speed

When working on a sloped roof, the contractor has to move slowly to avoid sliding off, which slows the project down. Also, they have to waste time setting up additional structures to improve the roof’s accessibility.

Cost

The cost of replacing a flat roof is lower than a sloped roof because of the less risk involved while disassembling the old roof and assembling a new one. Also, the longer it takes to replace a roof, the costlier it becomes.