New Roof for an Extension: Installation Guide

By adding an extension to your property, you can significantly increase both the space available, and the market value of your property – win-win!

If this is an investment that you’re considering, it’s important to note that there are a number of key points that you will need to consider. One of the questions at the very top of this list will be, what is the right roof for my extension?

In this guide, our professional roofers have shared their top tips for choosing the best roof for your specific property. Keep reading to find out more about the different types of roofs that are available, and expert guidance for choosing the right roof style for your extension.

Key considerations when choosing a roof for an extension

Before you decide which roof to opt for, ensure you consider the following points:

Planning permission – Will you need planning permission for your planned extension?

Building regulations – Does your chosen roof style comply with all relevant regulations? This will need to include any regulations surrounding structural integrity, insulation and fire safety, for example.

The size and layout of your extension – E.g. while smaller extensions might be well-suited to flat roofs, a larger extension might require a pitched roof.

The existing roof’s design – After all, you need to make sure that your new roof seamlessly complements the existing one.

Roof drainage – The pitch of the roof needs to be carefully considered, in order to minimise the risks of common drainage issues (such as leaks and pooling).

Additional features – Do you want any extra features to be included in the roof of your extension? For example, would you like the roof to incorporate rooflights or skylights?

Flat roofs

Flat roofs are widely used in smaller extension projects, as they are a great way to achieve a modern, seamless design.

The benefits of flat roofs

Cost-effective – As they are more simple to construct, flat roofs are typically cheaper than pitched roofs.

Clean, modern aesthetic – With many property owners choosing flat roofs for their sleek, contemporary finish.

A good fit for areas with height restrictions – If your planned project has height restrictions (e.g. if it needs to sit under a first floor window), a flat roof is a great way to maximise the space available.

Easy installation of extra features – If you want to include additional features to your roof (e.g. a glass panel) a flat roof makes this a quick and easy extra installation.

Typical uses:

• Kitchen extensions
• Utility room extensions
• Extensions where there is a height limit
• Single-storey rear extensions

Points to consider:

If you are opting for a flat roof, you will need to ensure that the roof is built to include a slight incline, in order to maintain sufficient drainage.

Pitched roofs

Pitched roofs are available in a range of different designs, including gable, and lean-to roofs, among many others.

These roofs are also popular amongst homeowners, as a result of their traditional appearance, and their ability to perfectly match with the property’s existing roof.

The benefits of pitched roofs

Long lifespan – Generally speaking, pitched roofs are more durable than flat roofs. As a result, they also typically have a longer lifespan.

Low risk of leaves – Thanks to their slopes, pitched roofs naturally have very effective drainage, and a low risk of damp or leaks.

Create a cohesive aesthetic – In some cases, property owners like to use pitched roofs on their extensions to create a seamless, paralleled aesthetic with their existing property roof.

Greater flexibility with the room’s design – With pitched roofs, you can have more variety in the way you decide to lay out the room. E.g. different storage solutions built into the roof.

Typical uses:

• Larger extensions
• Extensions that are positioned at the front of the property (or are easily visible from the front of the property)
• Properties that have an older or more traditional appearance

Points to consider:

If you like the look of a pitched roof, then you will need to bear in mind that these roofs are usually more expensive than flat roofs. This is because the design and build are more complex.

Furthermore, in some cases, there may not be sufficient height for a pitched roof to be installed (e.g. if you have a low first floor window).

Connecting to your existing roof

It’s important to note that, in some cases, you may need to replace part of the old roof to connect the new roof.

Common examples of projects where this is required include:

• If your new pitched roof will need to join to the gable or hip of the existing roof
• If the extension consists of two storeys
• If the extension wraps around the property

When you work with a professional roofing installer, they will be able to advise you on whether or not this will be required for your extension.

At BS Roofing, we are professional roofing installers, working with domestic property owners across the country.

Our professional team can supply and install new roofs for extensions, with all roofing types and designs available in our range.

To find out more, or to enlist our team to support your upcoming extension, don’t hesitate to get in touch.