If you’re planning to add an extension to your home, one of the first questions you will need to consider is whether you want a flat or pitched roof. Pitched roofs are generally a little more expensive due to the extra labour and materials involved, but the costs of each can vary significantly and price is rarely the determining factor in the decision on which to choose.
Why choose a pitched roof extension for your London property?
Most houses in the UK have pitched roofs, and therefore a pitched roof extension can blend in better with the original design of the property, which council planning departments may look upon favourably. Once built, they also generally last longer than flat roofs due to the materials involved and the simple fact that there is less risk of water pooling on a pitched roof, which reduces the chances of a leak.
Pitched roofs also offer the possibility of higher ceilings with angled windows that let in light for longer periods of the day, or with space for a loft or more insulation to keep down the costs of heating in the winter.
However, as previously noted, pitched roofs are generally more expensive to construct due to the extra materials and labour involved. The size and shape of some London homes also simply do not lend themselves well to a pitched roof extension, and the additional height of the extension will be a factor when considering both traditional planning permission and permitted development rights.
Why choose a flat roof extension for your London home?
Flat roof extensions general cost less to construct and can still accommodate a variety of styles of rooflights which let in floods of sunlight during the day. They also look more modern, with sharper angles that align with many people’s contemporary aesthetic.
Whilst they may be called flat roofs, they are also built at a slight angle so that rain water will still flow off them into the gutters, reducing the chances of water pooling and potential leaks. And depending on the style of your house, a flat roof may be your only option without blocking the light to other windows of the property or impacting the amount of daylight enjoyed by your neighbours.
However, with a flat roof you will generally have lower ceilings inside, and have less space for insulation, which could mean higher heating bills. Despite major improvements to the durability of the materials used for flat roofs in recent years, their design also means that they will inevitably require more maintenance than pitched roofs to protect them from damage and water ingress.
Are you looking to build an extension to your London property?
If you are considering your options for an extension, contact Good London Builders today to get expert advice on the best type of extension for your needs. We can help guide you through the construction process from start to finish. Call Good London Builders today on 0207 978 5097.
