Making A Flat Roof Into A Pitched Roof

Removing the old flat roof costs more but creates options for extra space higher ceilings etc.

Making a flat roof into a pitched roof.

The process for converting a flat roof into a pitched roof depends on your individual structure and your individual needs there is no one size fits all option. As a consequence many people look into converting their low sloped roof to a pitched roof commonly called a roof conversion. Tear off the old materials and apply roof sheathing. While that s the easiest route it s certainly not your only option.

Pitched roofs can be designed and built using traditional rafter framing or engineered wood trusses. Some will choose to keep their pre existing flat roof on their structure underneath the new pitched roof to save removal costs but others might not be able to consider that option as their building couldn t support the weight of two roofs. Additionally flat roof systems are less forgiving if errors occur during the installation process. Joist spacing is incredibly important as they need to be adequately spaced to support a pitched roof.

If it is determined that your building can support a pitched roof the next step will be the removal of all of your roofing materials and the main roofing structure. Start by putting a truss at the front end of the garage. Most homeowners choose to convert a flat roof to a pitched one using a simple trussed roof with two angled planes. Pitched roofs require more manpower and time to install especially when making a major structural conversion.

You should then inspect the. You should put a truss over every second joist. The simplest way to replace the flat garage roof with a pitched roof is to use prefabricated roof trusses. Measure the width of the garage to know how long you need them to be and count how many joists there are along the length.

Any poorly installed flat roofing system requires constant upkeep and repair. Additional valleys angles and gables can be built into converted roofs as well but adding these elements may affect your project. Determine the roof span and pitch. How to make a flat roof have a pitch general steps step 1.

Finally the decision to convert has to gain approval from a certified building professional or engineer.