Before you commit to buying a house, there are many considerations to make. It might seem like your dream home now, but will you still love it when the weather changes or it needs a bit of maintenance? Many houses have at least one flat roof, even if it’s over the garage. It’s a good idea to consider the pros and cons of buying a property which includes a flat roof – you might want to tap into the potential or prepare yourself for the drawbacks!

In this blog, we look at the pros and cons of flat roofs. 

Advantages of a flat roof

Affordability

Many properties have flat roofs because it was the cheaper way of building in the first place! This also means that, if you need to repair or replace the roof, it should be a cheaper project than it would be with a pitched roof.

Flat-roofed properties can also be cheaper to heat, because there is less space between the ceiling and the roof for the hot air to rise into. 

Potential

Flat roofs are full of potential if you are looking for extra space. In general, flat roofs can usually take the same weight as a room can, and are relatively easy to convert into roof terrace space. And if you want to add a room over the top of your flat roof, it’s usually a cheaper and simpler job than it would be with a pitched roof. Remember, if you do opt to extend your property, always get advice from a structural engineer and follow the appropriate planning guidance. 

Disadvantages of a flat roof

More frequent maintenance

On the other hand, it’s important to remember that flat roofs might need repairing more frequently (although maintenance is usually cheaper than for pitched roofs – see above). This is because in winter weather, rain and snow can easily collect on a flat roof and put it under more pressure than a pitched roof, which is designed to shed rain. 

Storage

Houses with flat roofs tend not to have loft space. However, to answer this problem, many architects design additional storage inside the house itself, like built-in cupboards. If you go for a viewing at a house with a flat roof, remember to think about storage and consider the alternatives to loft space. 

Buy property in Guildford

Some houses have flat roofs, while others have pitched roofs. The right property for you will depend on a range of factors, but rest assured that it is out there and waiting for you to move in! 

We’ve been selling and letting property in the Guildford area for years. We love helping buyers find their dream home, and we love helping sellers make the most of their property before they put it on the market. To find out more, get in touch today on 01483 457 000 – we’d love to hear from you.