Not only does the roof of your home keep it warm and dry but it also plays a big part in the overall aesthetic good looks. A well-designed roof can either make or break a property. Get it wrong and not only is it costly to put right
but it can be a home-owners nightmare.
But with so many designs of roof to choose from, how do you choose the right one for your home renovation or new build project? We have put together an easy to follow guide that will enable you to make the right choice, no matter
whether you are renovating, extending or building a brand new home.
We are going to look at design, structure and costs.
Roofs are not all the same hence you have a mix of structures to choose from. They come in all shapes and sizes including traditional, flat, 'Green' and even curved. Before you sit down with your designer and decide on which roof to go for, think about the following:
When looking at designs, think 'pitch'. This has to suit the home and if the pitch is wrong, you can end up with a really odd looking roof. If you plan to convert the roof space in the future, a shallow pitch will not work as you will not have enough headspace.
There are a variety of design options when it comes to roof styles. The main ones are:
Flat roofs have become popular over the last few years, maybe because of their economical cost. They are no longer thought of as being ugly, cheap and nasty. Modern flat roofs don't have the same leakage problems and can look
incredibly stylish and modern. Your builder will usually apply an EPDM membrane to the surface, thus eradicating the risk of leaks or water ingress.
If you are veering towards choosing a pitched gable roof, then you will be able to consider the addition of a vaulted ceiling. Much adored by many homeowners, this means that the ceiling follows the pitch of the roof, resulting in
higher ceiling. Great if you want to add roof lights.
A pitched or 'lean to' roof is often used for extensions. Again, good for roof lights but may not work with first floor windows.
How about a flat roof with a pitched perimeter? This keeps the roof height low but you still have the appealing pitched roof styling. Optionally, you may like the idea of a flat roof with parapet. With this design, the parapet
completely conceals the edge of the flat roof. It may be a good choice for older houses where modern flat roofs can look odd and out of place.
If your new build is going to involve a pitched roof that will be taller than buildings around it, the local planning department are likely to object. We may need to speak with them and obtain pre-application advice. This can be done upon submission of your plans. If you are changing an existing property, you can make some improvements/changes under Permitted Development Rights. This covers things such as adding roof lights, changing the type of roof covering and adding dormer windows. This means you may not need planning permission as long as you operate within the limits of the permitted development. Building Regulations will still apply. Again, this is something that your designer can take care of for you.
The cost of your roof depends upon the amount of materials used and complexity of design. A flat roof needs less materials than a pitched design so is often used by those on a tight budget. The more simple the shape, the lower the price. The cheapest roofing system is the type that can be assembled quickly on site; this saves on construction costs. Sometimes a client may opt for a more expensive structure, knowing they will be able to easily convert at a later date at a minimal cost.
Your choice of roof covering will also influence the cost. With so many types of roofing tile available, let's take a look at just a few of the different types:
We can help you plan and design your next project. We prepare planning application drawings, building control packages, and structural design calculations for all types of house extension, renovation and self-build projects. Contact us today for further information and to request a quotation. Contact us