Steep and Low-Slope Roofing
Steep roofing is most likely on your house’s main parts. You see it in residential roofing and small businesses designed to look like houses. To be a steep slope roof, it has to have a slope of 18 degrees or more. Many residential buildings have steep roofs because they’re less likely to have standing water or snow and ice buildup. It’s likely to slide right off the roof.
Another benefit is that it indicates extra storage space. Whether it’s a crawl space, loft, or attic, a steep pitch provides space at the top of your house. Depending on the pitch, you can sometimes furnish it as an extra living space. However, one con of a pitched roof is that it’s more difficult to perform roof maintenance, making repair and labor a bit more expensive.
A low-slope roof is anything with a pitch lower than 18 degrees. You’re more likely to see this in residential buildings on porches, garages, and sunrooms – likely additions to the main house. It’s also regularly used for commercial and industrial buildings. It’s a more cost-effective option without the slope because it doesn’t require rafters and extra support.
A low-slope roof can lower heating and air conditioning costs in a closed-in space. It doesn’t have to fill as much space as with a steeper roof. However, you’re limited in materials with a low-slope roof, as you can’t use shingles. It’s also difficult when it comes to snow and ice. Since it has no steep slope, you must use snow removal methods.