Flat roofs have a number of benefits, including being aesthetically pleasing and offering extra outdoor living space that other types of roofs cannot. However, they are far from perfect. Flat roofs typically function best in dry, arid climates, like in Arizona and New Mexico. North Carolina and South Carolina are both moist, humid states for the most part. Flat roofs have a natural tendency to start leaking and have mold problems. Both of these issues can be exacerbated in the Carolinas.
In many cases, homeowners who find themselves dealing with flat roof moisture issues have no choice but to replace the roof altogether, often to the tune of $5,000 or more. If you happen to be in this situation, you might be thinking about having your roof converted to a pitched style instead. This is a viable choice in many cases. As you read on, you’ll learn more about the pros and cons of altering a flat roof.
How much will I have to pay?
If you’re like most homeowners thinking about taking on a major renovation job, the cost is at the forefront of your mind. Before you take-on a flat roof conversion project, you need to understand that it definitely qualifies as a big task. There are a variety of factors your contractor will have to take into consideration, including the structural stability of your house and whether or not modifications need to be made in order for it to support a new roof for decades to come.
It is not uncommon for homeowners who decide to convert their flat roofs into pitched roofs to ultimately spend about $30,000. Some jobs are less expensive than this, but don’t be surprised if your final cost is in the aforementioned range. Do bear in mind, though, that many Carolina roofing professionals offer financing if you can’t afford to pay the entire sum upfront. Furthermore, your roof will be part of your home for as long as you live there, so it is worth the investment.
How can I avoid sticker shock?
If your household typically adheres to a strict budget, you may be feeling alarmed about spending tens of thousands of dollars on a new roof. In this situation, the best thing you can do is be as prepared as possible for unexpected costs. One great idea, for example, is to put about 20% of your contractor’s total estimate into an emergency fund.
How will my home’s architecture impact the job?
It likely goes without saying that your home’s architecture will have an impact on how your currently flat roof can be changed. If, for example, you are only changing your roof and not adding another story to your home, the way your current ceiling joists are arranged could present a problem for your contractor. If, for instance, they were not laid properly when they were installed, the entire ceiling may need to be rebuilt underneath your new roof.
The team at Hatch Homes specializes in all sorts of roofing jobs, including flat roof conversions. We would love to oversee your project anywhere in North Carolina or South Carolina. No matter how far along you are in the process, we look forward to hearing from you soon and answering all of the questions you have!