If you ask many homeowners about what makes up a good roof, they’ll often exclude the pitch. While it may seem like an aesthetic choice, it’s actually an essential component. A trained roofer should explain why the pitch plays such an important role. We do so below.
Explaining a Pitch
To clarify, a roof pitch is the angle of your slope. It determines how fast the water flows down from the roof. It also affects the look of your home, regardless of whether it’s flat or high pitched. Some residences have near-flat tops while others have a more familiar triangle-shaped cover overhead.
There are three types of pitches: low, medium and high. Low pitches, or even flat roofs, are common for commercial properties. They require more maintenance, although they’re easier for contractors to inspect. Meanwhile, medium and high pitches are better for draining out snow, water and debris. However, it can be tough for roof repair work.
Why the Right One Counts
The roof pitch determines the cost of installation and repairs or replacement. The lower the pitch, the easier it is to install. With a flat roof, it’s basically another floor. On the other hand, higher pitches need support to stay in that angle. That’s why contractors can fix flat roofs faster; they don’t have to adjust to the incline.
Roof pitch also determines the cost of maintenance in the long run. It’s the opposite from installation because flat roofs need more maintenance. They aren’t good at draining water or shedding debris, so you need to monitor your roof more often. On the other hand, you can wait for a year before calling the roofing company for inspection with higher pitches.
As a GAF Master Elite® contractor, Superior Roofing can help you with your roofing needs. We can modify the pitch to fit your home as well as the shape and style. Call us today at (334) 821-8411 in Auburn, AL, or at (706) 322-9032 in Columbus, GA, to learn more about our products and services.