Every roof has what’s called a pitch, and understanding what it is will help ensure that you have the right roof for your home or business.
Roof pitch explained
A roof’s pitch can be thought of as its slope. The steeper the roof, the more quickly it will be able to shed rain and other debris. Even flat roofs aren’t completely flat, because they must be constructed at a very slight incline so rain can be directed away from the roof.
Why pitch matters
Now that you've had roof pitch explained, you might wonder why it's important. A roof’s pitch should help dictate what materials are used. Your roof’s slope will also help determine how long your roofing system lasts and how it performs over time.
In addition, appearance is also a factor when determining pitch. The architecture of some homes is better suited to flatter roofs, while others may look better with a moderate or even steep slope. Many commercial buildings also have flat roofs. Generally, they’re less expensive, because they’re easier to install, and they require less material.
Flat or low-slope roofs
A flat or low-slope roof is becoming more and more popular in many climates, including Las Vegas, that don’t get snow or a lot of heavy rain. These roofs rise three inches or less per horizontal foot. Technological advances are making flat roofs an increasingly popular choice in drier climates.
Installation and product options
As mentioned above, the pitch of your roof helps to determine the material that can be effectively used on it. In fact, roofing manufacturers can void the warranties on their materials if they’re installed on improperly sloped roofs. Single-ply roofing systems made of waterproof rubber or thermoplastic compounds such as PVC are popular for low-slope roofs. Tile is a popular option for roofs in the Las Vegas area that have a moderate slope.
All components and characteristics of your roof, including its pitch, work together to create a roofing system that will help take rain and debris away from your home, protecting it from leaks and other damage. First Quality Roofing & Insulation will work with you to determine the roofing system that will work best for your home or business. Contact us at 702-262-7847 for more information.
