Aside from the type of material and the expertise of your chosen contractor for the job, one of the variables that can affect the overall cost of a roof replacement project is the roof’s pitch or slope. After all, it plays a crucial role in determining how complex the installation process will be and the materials required. Read on as we explain this matter further.
About the Roof’s Pitch or Slope
The pitch or slope of a roof is generally expressed as a ratio of the roof plane’s vertical rise per 12 inches or a foot of horizontal run. For example, a roof with a 9/12 pitch means it has nine inches of rise for every foot of run. A roof’s pitch ranges between low-sloped, which are common in flat roofs used in commercial buildings, and steeply sloped, which are found in churches and some intricately designed roofs in residential properties.
How Pitch Affects Roof Replacement Costs
The differences in pitch affect the amount of labor, materials and specialized techniques required. These, in turn, impact the overall cost of the roofing project.
- Steeply Sloped Roofs. Increased difficulty and safety concerns during installation are some of the key factors contributing to the higher costs associated with such roofs. Roofing pros need to take extra precautions, often utilizing scaffolding and harnesses, which increases labor costs. More time and effort is required to ensure steeply sloped roofs shed water properly. Moreover, they usually demand the use of more expensive roofing materials, particularly those that can withstand strong winds and protect against water infiltration. Steep-sloped roofs require architectural or dimensional shingles, which are more durable and thicker than their three-tab counterparts.
- Low-Sloped Roofs. On the other hand, low-sloped roofs have their own set of considerations. They require a membrane roofing system — think modified bitumen or single-ply membranes like TPO or EPDM. Installation requirements and techniques also vary depending on the choice of roofing system, to ensure sufficient drainage. Otherwise, water pooling can occur, exposing the roofs to leaks and eventual water damage.
Understanding the impact of pitch on replacement costs allows property owners to make informed decisions, balancing budget considerations with long-term durability and maintenance requirements. To learn more about this aspect of your roofing project, turn to Superior Roofing. Call us at any of the following numbers: (706) 322-9032 (Columbus, GA), (334) 298-5253 (Phenix City, AL), or (334) 821-8411 (Auburn, AL). You can also fill out our contact form to request an estimate.