Many commercial building roofs are flat, but for traditional homes a flat roof is not common, except for the “modern” styles homes. Have you ever pondered the reason why contemporary roof designs almost always feature a flat surface? Flat roofs are an essential component of the modernist style and can be found atop residential homes around Omaha and Des Moines.
This is not the only architectural style that makes use of a flat roof, it is one of the only styles for residential roofs in Omaha and Des Moines.
However, the popularity of flat roofs as a residential style did not start to grow until the middle of the 20th century. This development occurred at the same time as the modern style. And the allure of either has not lessened in any way since that time.
Why is it that flat roofs seem to be such an inextricable part of modern architecture? That is due to a few different factors, to be more specific.
Why do contemporary homes install flat roofs?
The first reason is that during the 19th and 20th centuries, new roofing materials were developed, which made it more practical to have flatter roofs and also made them more affordable.
The production of concrete, structural steel, rubbers, and a variety of synthetic materials all saw significant progress.
As soon as this occurred, manufacturers started producing roofing materials that were suitable for residential use and were watertight, lightweight, and durable. Examples of these materials include felt, rubber, and synthetic membrane.
Because newer products entered the market, architects were no longer required to use conventional shingles despite the limitations of these shingles. They were allowed to try out various designs for their roofs, such as making them completely flat, oblong, jaunting out, sloping on one side, overlapping, and so on.
What is the appeal of a flat roof?
Flat roofs provide homeowners with a clean and elevated design that is unique yet versatile enough to appeal to a variety of tastes. Flat roofs are a popular choice for residential construction. And because they are so adaptable, these roofs can accommodate a wide range of aesthetic preferences. Flat modern roofs can have a calming, Zen-like, laid-back vibe, or they can have a rock and roll vibe instead. They can give off an impression of being youthful, or they can feel very much older. The look can be as simple and severe as possible, or it can be dramatic.
It is possible for a flat roof to be completely flat and unnoticeable. Alternatively, if it is visible enough, it can become a work of virtual art. It can be straightforward or consist of multiple planes and roof features.
Flat roofs are appealing to almost all people because of their clean lines and straight edges. This is a quick and easy way to improve the curb appeal of a house without making it appear to be an exact duplicate of other houses.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that contemporary styles of flat roofs have become a long-lasting trend.
The contemporary look of a flat roof is very popular among homeowners and architects.
At this point in time, a design choice that was once considered to be subversive and countercultural is now regarded as one that is secure, traditional, and conservative.
Can Only Modern Houses Benefit From Having Flat Roofs?
The relationship between flat roofs and contemporary style is inextricable. These styles appeared around the same time, and the flat roof quickly became an identifying characteristic of the mid-century look.
However, due to their adaptability, flat roofs can be utilized in a variety of residential architectural styles.
A house does not need to be built in a modern style in order to have a flat roof installed. Almost any structure can have its appearance improved by undergoing renovations that involve the addition of a flat roof.
It is compatible with a variety of house styles, including executive, ranch, and contemporary homes, among others.
Consider installing a flat roof and switching the siding on your house if you want it to stand out from the other homes in the neighborhood but you live in a house that is identical to all the others. This upgrade has the potential to make a significant difference in your property’s curb appeal.
Flat Roof Advantages
There are a few advantages that come with having a flat roof for a home. These roofs are more affordable, require less maintenance, and create additional space for living quarters.
- Less expensive than pitched roof installation
- Less roof maintenance
- Can be a functional space
These are a few of the reasons why homeowners may be more interested in purchasing homes with flat roofs as opposed to traditional homes with pitched roofs.
Installing a flat roof is less expensive.
Did you know that installing a pitched roof costs significantly more money than a flat roof?
You got that right. The upscale appearance of a flat roof does not translate into a higher building cost, despite the fact that flat roofs are currently popular and in high demand.
One reason for this is that pitched roofs require more material to construct than flat roofs do. Installing a flat roof is also easier than installing a pitched roof with multiple peaks because of the flat surface.
You have the option of having a low-cost flat roof installed that is designed to function well in the environment of your location.
Maintenance that is Easier and Less Expensive
A pitched roof requires significantly more effort to clean, maintain, and repair than a flat roof does.
Roofers have an easier time climbing onto flat roofs and moving around on them than they do on pitched roofs. When working on a flat roof, you do not require harnesses or as many other pieces of safety equipment.
Extra Room for Living Purposes: Roof Deck
You are able to increase the amount of livable space in your home by installing a flat roof. On their flat roofs, some homeowners opt to cultivate gardens, create sitting areas, or install decks.
It may be beneficial to install a flat roof on a smaller home if it is possible to do so.
Other Concerns Regarding Flat Roofs
The pitch, or steepness, of a roof plays a role in both its ability to shed snow, ice, and debris and its ability to drain water. Flat roofs address this issue by including additional drainage materials in their design. You should also be aware that the majority of flat roofs actually have a slight pitch to them in order to facilitate drainage.
Careful deliberation is required when selecting a product. The initial materials that were used to construct flat roofs were not particularly high quality. At the time in question, leaking problems were quite common. Since that time, however, there have been significant advancements made to building products, and nowadays you can buy materials for flat roofs that are designed to withstand the weather in your area.
When considering the purchase and installation of a flat roof, it is strongly recommended that one seek the advice of an experienced local roofer.
Is a flat roof installation right for you?
If you are interested in installing a flat roof on your home, be sure to work with a local roofing company that has experience in flat roof installations and flat roof maintenance. The process of installing a flat roof is very different that a pitched roof installation. AGR Roofing & Construction has extensive experience with flat roof installation and flat roof maintenance.
