How to Add a Pitch to a Flat Roof
Do you love your commercial building, but hate all of the downsides that come along with having a flat roof? Before resigning yourself to the idea that you’re stuck with this style forever, consider the option of having a pitch installed over your existing roof.
Not only are pitched roofs more aesthetically pleasing, they can be less prone to leaks and other issues during certain stormy times of the year than flat roofs. In addition, they’re better at holding weight associated with the winter snowfall here in Michigan.
However, when considering the option to raise a flat roof, there are certain elements you should keep in mind. And that’s why our Summit Commercial Roofing team has put together this brief guide. Here’s what you need to know about the process and why it can be super beneficial in the long run.
Why Would You Add Pitch to Your Flat Roof?
While flat roofs do come with numerous benefits, some commercial property owners just prefer a pitched roof. Here are a few reasons why you might consider adding a pitched roof to your commercial building.
1. Visual Appeal
Maybe you’re updating the visual look of an old building and want a more modern aesthetic. Or perhaps you just bought the property and realize there are elements of the current roof that you just don’t like. The most common reason why commercial building owners choose this process is overall looks.
2. Eliminate Water Ponding
The second reason to raise the pitch of your commercial roof? It can eliminate water ponding. And, as you probably know, this is an issue common to flat roofs where moisture stays stuck on the surface after a rainstorm or snowfall. The end result is that the roofing material wears out faster and can sometimes create leaks, which can lead to flooding inside the building.
3. Updated Material
Some property owners would love to add a new type of material to their roof to enjoy added longevity or energy efficiency. Metal roofs are often a common choice when it comes to making this type of change, as they can sometimes last decades longer than traditional materials.
How to Make a Flat Roof Have Pitch?
To give a flat roof pitch, there are several steps involved in the process. Each one is important and includes various factors that relate specifically to each individual project. Here is how our team at Summit Commercial Roofing will tackle the process of transforming your flat roof to one with pitch.
1. Assess the Project
First, we start by assessing the project and taking the necessary measurements. This allows us to ensure we’re placing the peak of the new roof at the right point and take into consideration any structural elements that might need extra care. A new roof creates quite a bit of weight that might be different than the existing one, so we’ll double-check to ensure your commercial building can handle the additional load.
2. Removal of Existing Roof
Next, our experts will carefully remove the existing roof. This includes all the way down to the interior of the building. They’ll also look to see if there are any portions that are still in good condition and can be salvaged accordingly for reuse.
3. New Roof Installation
Finally, the new roof is installed. Brand new trusses and other materials will be built as if the structure were brand new, giving you the look and performance you’re seeking by going through this process.
Why Choose Summit Commercial Roofing?
Whether you’re looking to tackle a big job like converting a flat roof to pitched or simply need a repair, our team at Summit Commercial Roofing is here to help. We specialize in commercial buildings and are proud to be trusted by so many businesses in Livonia and surrounding areas.
Ready to learn more? Click here to receive a no-obligation estimate for raising a flat roof now.
