Find out what to consider if you’re adding a pitched roof extension to your home —from the pros and cons to the likely costs
Simply put, a pitched roof extension is an addition to an existing house with a roof structure in the shape of a triangle. The roof design therefore enables rain, snow and ice to slide off and into the gutters.
Pitched roofs can refer to any style of roof with a ridge or apex – pretty much anything other than flat roof extensions – although generally when they are being referred to, a classic pitch with a gable end is intended.
Pitched roofs can be adapted to suit the roof types in a specific location or they can be designed to put a new style spin on an existing structure — be it contemporary or period in style. Plus, they look great when used atop a large two-storey addition, as well as a petite extension — it really is a versatile roofscape.
THE ADVANTAGES OF OPTING FOR A PITCHED ROOF
“Pitched roof extensions offer many benefits and are quite often a popular way to extend,” according to George Allen, regional design consultant from Oakwrights. These are some of the benefits:
● More insulation can be installed in the roof which provides better energy efficiency.
● The style can suit contemporary and traditional house extension styles. “Pitched roofs are more traditional, but they can appear contemporary if a modern material is used and can be vaulted internally to provide drama,” advises Lydia Robinson, founder of Design Storey Architects.
●“The vaulted ceiling roof space offers an airy feeling to the room, linking a room with lower ceilings for high ridge lines and lots of light,” says George.
● “Pitched roof extensions are also very versatile, and with multiple roof material options from clay, slate, shingles and zinc there is an aesthetic to suit any property,” adds George.
● “Another benefit is that pitched roofs can help you overcome planning constraints,” adds Yaniv Peer, director at Iguana Architects. “Traditional extensions under a householder application will normally be allowed to a depth of 3.5m under the planner’s discretion. However, if you’re planning to extend further, then you will need a little ace up your sleeve and that comes in the form of pitching the roof eaves height down to 2m a
