Can a Flat Roof be Converted to a Pitched Roof?

There are a number of issues that can come up when you need a flat roof repair. Water can pool, the membrane can buckle, and cracks can form due to the structural pressure exerted on flat roofs.  While they can be nice in some circumstances, it’s not uncommon for people to want to convert a flat roof into a pitched roof.  There’s no one answer to what the best type of roof is. There are pros and cons to each kind, no matter what shape or material it’s made of. 

The good news is that there are options. If you aren’t happy with your flat roof, we can help. Here are some things to consider as you make your decision and tips to help you prepare if you want to change a flat roof into a sloped roof.

What’s Your Purpose

Choosing whether to convert your old flat roof into a new pitched one can be a hard decision.  The big issue you’re going to face is knowing exactly what your needs and purpose are. While it may seem straightforward, there are actually a number of factors that can affect how complicated and expensive it is to change a flat roof into a sloped one. There is good news, though.  No matter what your situation, it is possible to convert to a new roof. It’s just a matter of understanding what your specific needs are and making sure you’re prepared for the process.

Converting a Garage or Patio Roof

This is, by far, the most common request we get.  A lot of times, patios and garages are built with a simple flat roof. Over time, the owners either find issues with their current roof or just want to make these “extra spaces” match the rest of the roof on their homes.  

If this is what you’re looking to do, we’ve got you covered.  It’ll take some work, but we can get your garage or patio looking great in no time.

Converting a House or Commercial Building

Now we’re getting into more complicated projects.  Because a full building is so large, it takes more than just a contractor to come out and convert from a flat roof to a pitched one.  If you want to change your home’s entire roof, you’re going to require a structural engineer to come out and make sure the designs for the roof will be safe and secure. That’s going to be quite a process, and it won’t be cheap.  But once that part is done, a contractor can come out and build to the proper specifications. Just be prepared for this to be a fairly long and involved process.

What to Expect

While converting a garage or patio roof is a lot easier than changing the main roof of your house, it’s always going to be a pretty heavy project to make the switch.  So you should be ready for your home to feel like a construction site for a little bit. 

First, we’ll have to get rid of the roof that’s already on there. That means tearing away the shingles, all the layers, and even the decking.  When we’re done, there won’t be anything left but the original bare frame.  

That old frame will then be the foundation on which we’ll start building your new one.  The new frame will be arched and give your garage or patio the slope it needs for your new roof.

Once the new frame is in place, we’ll start laying your new roof.  That means putting on new decking and covering the roof with brand new asphalt shingles.  

While there can be advantages and disadvantages to having a flat roof, if you decide that, due to problems or just to improve the look of your home, you want to convert to a sloped roof, we’re here to help.  

Parish Roofing Solutions has the expertise and experience to help you weigh the pros and cons. However you decide to update your roof, we’re here to help.  Reach out today for a FREE consultation and we’ll help you make the choice that’s right for you and your home. 

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