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Adding a second-floor extension to you home can be costly. As such, many homeowners opt for a flat roof over a pitched roof simply to cut down on their expenses. Because pitched roofs require more materials and workmanship, they are almost always more expensive than flat roofs, but they do come with several advantages that make the cost worthwhile.

Here are just four.

1. Harmonious Styling

In the vast majority of cases, a pitched roof is going to blend with the style of your property far more effectively than a flat roof – after all, nearly all homes have pitched roofs, and going from pitched to flat when you extend upwards is going to make the home look a little incongruous. This is an important cosmetic concern, especially if you think you might want to sell the house in the future, but it's also important during the planning phase. You're going to need planning permission for a second-floor extension, and going with a roof that fits with the current style makes that a lot easier.

2. Added Space

A pitched roof uses at least two slopes that meet at a peak. As such, they offer significantly more space than a flat roof. One of the major benefits of a second-floor extension is getting that extra space, so you might as well make the most out of it. A higher ceiling can be achieved to create more welcoming living spaces, and the slope of the roof can provide a loft area for added storage.  

3. Longer Lifespan

One of the most immediate problems that comes with a flat roof is that they aren't particularly adept at dealing with the weather. Water will tend to pool instead of running straight off, and snow will tend to turn into ice instead of simply avalanching off. This means that your roof isn't likely to last as long and that repairs will probably be needed more frequently. It's a particular problem with second-floor extension roofs because the weight of water, snow, ice, or debris will add to the considerable weight of the extension itself, placing incredible strain on the underlying structure.

4. Reduced Energy Bills

A pitched roof will cost more than a flat roof, but perhaps only initially. Because a pitched roof allows far more room for installation, your energy bills should be lower when you go pitched instead of flat. As such, you might end up saving money in the long run, and you'll find your upper floor cosy and warm even during winter.