Two Different Roofs for Two Different Jobs
Shingle roofs and flat roofs are not interchangeable. They serve different purposes, handle water differently, and have completely different maintenance profiles. Choosing the wrong one for your property is an expensive mistake that we see more often than you would expect.
Shingle Roofs: The Residential Standard
Most homes in St. Louis have sloped roofs with asphalt shingles. There is a reason for that -- they work well for residential applications.
Advantages:
- Excellent water shedding on sloped surfaces
- Wide range of styles and colors
- 25-50 year warranties depending on material
- Familiar to every contractor in the region
- Insurance-friendly and well-understood by adjusters
Limitations:
- Require a minimum pitch (typically 4:12 or steeper for best performance)
- Not ideal for rooftop equipment like HVAC systems
- Susceptible to wind uplift if improperly installed
Flat Roofs: The Commercial Workhorse
Flat roofs -- which actually have a slight pitch of about 1/4 inch per foot -- are the standard for commercial buildings and some modern residential designs.
Advantages:
- Maximize usable space (rooftop HVAC, solar panels, green roofs)
- Often more cost-effective per square foot for large buildings
- TPO and EPDM membranes offer strong waterproofing
- Easier access for maintenance and equipment servicing
Limitations:
- Require proper drainage systems -- ponding water is the enemy
- Shorter lifespan than high-end shingle systems (15-25 years typical)
- More sensitive to installation quality
- Seams and penetrations are common failure points
The Hybrid Situation
Many St. Louis homes have both. A sloped shingle roof over the main structure with a flat section over an addition, sunroom, or garage. If that describes your property, you need a contractor who handles both systems competently. Ask for references on each type separately.
Which One Is Right for You?
For most residential homeowners in St. Louis: a quality architectural shingle system on a properly sloped roof is the right call. For commercial properties or residential projects with specific design requirements: a properly installed flat roof system gives you flexibility that shingles cannot.
Not sure what your property needs? Request a free assessment and we will give you our honest recommendation.