Building Flat Roof Houses vs Pitched Roof Houses in Kenya
When it comes to building a house in Kenya, one of the biggest decisions you will have to make is choosing the type of roof you want.
There are two main options, flat roofs and pitched roofs.
Here, we’ll be comparing the two and discussing their advantages and disadvantages respectively.
Flat Roof Houses
Flat roofs have become increasingly popular in Kenya in recent years.
Here are some of the advantages of building a house with a flat roof:
Cost-effective
Flat roofs are generally less expensive to construct than normal roofs, as they require fewer materials and labor.
More usable space
With a flat roof, you can create a usable outdoor space, such as a rooftop terrace, which can be a great addition to your home.
Easy to maintain
Flat roofs are easier to maintain than normal roofs, as there are no sloping surfaces or shingles to worry about.
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider when building a flat roof house:
Poor drainage
Flat roofs can have poor drainage, which can cause water to accumulate and lead to leaks.
Limited ventilation
Flat roofs can be less ventilated than normal roofs, which can cause the interior of the house to become hotter and more humid.
Shorter lifespan
Flat roofs generally have a shorter lifespan than normal roofs, as they are more prone to leaks and water damage.
Pitched Roof Houses
Pitched roofs are more traditional and highly opted for Kenyan houses.
Here are some of the advantages of building a house with a normal roof:
Better drainage
Pitched roofs have better drainage than flat roofs, which helps prevent water accumulation and leaks.
More ventilation
Pitched roofs are more ventilated than flat a roof, which helps keep the interior of the house cooler and less humid.
Longer lifespan
Pitched roofs generally have a longer lifespan than flat roofs, as they are more durable and less prone to water damage.
However, there are also some disadvantages to be considered:
More expensive
Pitched roofs are generally more expensive to construct than flat roofs, as they require more materials and labor.
Limited usable space
Pitched roofs do not offer as much usable outdoor space as flat roofs.
More difficult to maintain
Pitched roofs can be more difficult to maintain than flat roofs, as there are more sloping surfaces and shingles to worry about.
Ultimately, the decision to build a flat roof house or a pitched roof house will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. While flat roofs are more cost-effective and offer more usable space, they can be prone to poor drainage and have a shorter lifespan.
On the other hand, normal roofs are more durable and offer better drainage, but they can be more expensive to construct and offer limited usable space.
Consider all of these factors carefully before making your final decision.
