What is a pitched roof?
A pitched roof is just what the name implies: a roof that slopes downward. A steeply pitched roof covers more of the building and can be less prone to leaks. On the other hand, a flatter (or less steeply-pitched) roof is easier to install than a steep one, but it requires much more material and labor. It may also cause leaks if not built properly or kept in good repair. The roof’s pitch is measured by its slope or rises over run (R/R).
The R/R measures how sloped your roof is in a specific direction. A roof’s slope is measured from the horizontal to the lowest point on the roof. For example, a 2:12 pitch covers about twice as much area as a 2:10 pitch, but it can be twice as steeply pitched. A 2:11 slope covers half as much area and half as steeply, while a 1:12 slope would cover only one-third of an average-sized building and is three times less steeply pitched than a 1:10 slope.
Types of Pitched Roofs
Mono-pitch roof
A mono-pitch roof is a type of roof that requires only one slope at either the highest or lowest point. This type of roof provides pitched roofs with a visual contrast that makes it easy for people to see where the slope begins and ends. The slope can be between 1:1 (the same height on both sides) and 5:12 (5 units high in the front, 12 units tall in the back). A mono-pitch roof is one of the most common types of roof. They are often seen on go-downs, storage rooms, and garages because they are easier to construct than other styles of roofs. They have a lower peak height than other kinds of roofs, making it possible for those who live in regions with snowfall to shovel off their roofs more easily. Since this kind of pitched roof has a slope of at least 45 degrees, it offers enough draining for snowfalls and rainwater.
Double-Pitch Roof
A double-pitch roof has two sloping surfaces. The angle of one slope is 45 degrees, just like in a single-pitched roof, but the angle of the other slope is greater than 45 degrees. A standard style for this type of roof is an A-frame shape with an attic area with two entrances – one at either end (see pictures below). Sometimes these roofs have small dormer windows to lighten up the attic space that does not have natural lighting from above. The double-pitch roof is commonly installed in residential buildings since it offers an economical, visually appealing roofing solution. Since its slope ranges between 45 to 60 degrees, it offers good drainage for buildings in areas that receive heavy snowfall or rainfall.
Gable Roof
A Gable Roof is a triangular-shaped design that is perfect for any home’s front facade. The sloping sides create the shape, and the peak at one end creates an extended angle for more headroom on the top floor. There are several types of gable roofs. The standard gable roof is a triangle-shaped piece, common in most homes and many renovations. Personal preference determines the style of a home and what you want as your front facade. Gable roof styles can be changed to fit individual needs and tastes. For example, if you want a sloping roof, then a set of triangular-shaped gables can be added at the top of the roof to create a “T” shape at the peak that the point matches towards the eaves.
Benefits of Installing Pitched roofs
Higher Energy Efficiency
Pitched roofs are more efficient because they shed rainwater better and reduce pressure on the roofing system through natural drainage. That is especially important in cases where the roof was not designed to introduce this type of drainage, such as when retrofitting an attic or basement space with a pitched roof. You can also measure your added energy efficiency by calculating how many square feet you have in your home and dividing it by the total square footage of your house, according to roofing experts.
Improved Home Values and Insurance Claims
Installing a pitched roof in your home or business is a great way to add value. Similarly, if you are involved in an insurance claim after a storm, your claims adjuster might give your property a higher valuation if it has a lean-to roof. That is because they offer greater protection against wind and water damage. As you know, insurance claims are generally determined by the replacement cost versus the depreciated value of the damaged property. You can add as much as 15 percent to your property’s depreciated value by installing a new roof.
Convenience
If you prefer DIY and want to install your pitched roof, it’s a no-brainer for the convenience of it all. Instead of paying installation fees or a contractor, you can spend some time on your own and wait for the roofing to be done. Another benefit is that you can do it yourself, saving on labor costs and getting your skills up in the process.
Elegance
Installing pitched roofs is also a beautiful idea since the finished product looks amazing if it is done right. There are different kinds of pitches in which you can create, such as variations in slope to give the impression of actually living inside a house and not just an apartment or condo. With the right design and colors, your pitched roof will fit in with everything else on your property and stand out from others.
There are also many materials that can be used for pitched roofs, such as roofing shingles, slate, clay tile, or even concrete tiles if you want something to match a certain part of your home, such as the bricks on the chimney. You can consult with experts to see what kinds of pitches they have and what materials they will suggest for the best results. Your pitched roof can be made of just about anything you want it to be as long as you have an expert helping you and guiding you along the journey.
Precautions when installing pitched roofs
When installing your own pitched roof, ensure a strong base is underneath to hold up all of the weight. Your pitched roof will be supported by trusses built right into the structure of your home or attic, so it is better to get these installed before laying any shingles on top. For instance, when laying the high-quality Technonicol roofing shingles, apply the adhesive generously so that the shingles will not come off during heavy rainfall, wind, or storm seasons. That way, you know that your pitched roof is secure and will not fall apart over time. The roof’s pitch can also be adjusted at will, although you will want to choose a length that works for you and your property.
Although there are many benefits to installing a pitched roof, it is crucial to ensure there is enough space for it first. A home should last for years without problems such as cracks or leaks, so it is not worth putting effort into something if there is not enough room to handle all the weight. There are also many pitches, so make sure you use the right kind for your home and property.