When deciding on a new roof style for your commercial building, there are several different things to take into consideration. Sloped roofs and flat roofs both have their benefits, and we want to make sure you think about each roofing type before making a final decision. The professionals at The Duerson Corporation are also available to talk through your options if you want to speak to someone in person to get a feel for which roof type is best for your business. In the meantime, here is a comparison of flat and sloped roofs that will help you decide which elements are most important to you in a new roof.

Interior Space in Your Building

When you’re debating whether to install a flat roof or a sloped roof, an important thing to consider is the space just below the roof inside your building. Do you utilize your interior space to the extent that some extra space just below your roof could pay off? If so, a flat roof will free up space, allowing you to stack supplies, shelves, or whatever you need higher than you would be able to with a sloped roof. If you plan to use all of the vertical space in your commercial building to its full extent, a flat roof will help.

Consider Roof Size

In practicality, commercial roofs are relatively large, so if you select a sloped roof for your building, the roof would be made up of either a tall peak or a series of several peaks and valleys. This means that more often than not, smaller buildings are a better candidate for sloped roofs, and very large buildings are a better candidate for flat roofs.

Cost Comparison

In terms of cost, flat roofs do tend to be more expensive than their sloped counterparts. Flat roofing involves more steps, and they typically require insulation to be installed. If you’re looking for a sturdy, cost-effective roof for your building, a sloped roof is more than likely the way to go. If you’re willing to spend a little extra for a roof that stands up to the elements and provides extra space below the roof, a flat roof is probably your better option.

Roof Longevity

The lifespan of a sloped roof is generally longer than that of a flat roof. One of the reasons for this is that there is a wider range of materials that can be used for sloped roofing, including shingles, concrete, and wood shingles. Another reason for sloped roofs’ durability is that the increased slant allows the roof to stand up better against water, ice, and snow that will immediately shed off of the roof, compared with the lower slant of flat roofs.

Think About Efficiency

Although sloped roofs are more cost-effective and last longer than flat roofs, flat roofs work extremely well with solar panels because the panels can be placed in such a way that they get more direct sunlight than they would with a sloped roof. Flat roofs also lend themselves better to placing air conditioners and other large appliances required for your business. Storing appliances on the roof rather than inside your building will make the inside of your building quieter, and it can also free up space for other equipment or storage you need.

Flat roofs and sloped roofs are both great options for keeping your commercial building safe against the elements; it’s really up to you to decide which factors are most important when it comes time for a new roof. As always, please reach out to our professionals if you need help making decisions about your roof—we can steer you in the right direction and work on a project plan to get your new roof up and running in a reasonable amount of time.