“The best time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.” – John F. Kennedy

 And the best time to choose the right roof? Now.

Whether building from scratch, replacing a roof, or converting a roof, this choice is not all about appearance. It’s about performance, longevity, expense, and peace of mind in the long run, particularly in Southeast Louisiana, where harsh weather comes standard.

At Westbank Roofing, we’ve been helping New Orleans homeowners make these choices for over five decades. Let’s break down the flat roof vs. pitched roof debate—real pros, real cons, no fluff.

Flat Roof: Sleek, Modern, and Space-Smart

Flat roofs are not literally flat, they slope slightly to a drainage point—but they’re all the rage for contemporary builds and commercial properties. They provide sleek, streamlined looks and additional usable space. But are they suitable for your property?

✅ Benefits of Flat Roofs

  • Simpler Access: Maintenance, cleaning, or even roof gardens? A flat surface is easier.
  • Flat roofs have a lower initial cost: Installation is less expensive than it is for pitched equivalents, particularly with larger buildings.
  • Smart for Solar Panels: Easier to install and position panels to get maximum sun exposure.
  • Space-Saving: HVAC equipment and other gear can be installed above, leaving the ground space available.

❌ Challenges to Watch Out For

  • Drainage Woes: Water doesn’t drain as easily. Without careful installation, ponding can create leaks.
  • Shorter Lifespan: Typically, flat roof membranes have a lifespan of 15–20 years.
  • Higher Repair Frequency: More prone to wear, UV damage, and weather-related damage.

At Westbank Roofing, we install top-of-the-line TPO and EPDM membranes on flat roofs—materials that excel in water-tight durability and energy efficiency. Our team knows just how to avoid those awful pooling problems.

Pitched Roof: Timeless Classic with Enduring Strength

From quaint bungalows to expansive southern estates, pitched roofs are ageless—and for a very good reason.

✅ Benefits of Pitched Roofs

  • Better Drainage: Rain and leaves slide off easily, lowering the risk of water damage.
  • Longer Lifespan: Shingles or metal roofing can last 25–50 years with proper maintenance.
  • Energy Efficiency: Easier to insulate, particularly at R40 levels, which equates to a more controlled interior climate.
  • More Storage or Living Space: Consider attic conversions or vaulted ceilings.

❌ Possible Disadvantages

  • Higher Cost Upfront: More labor and materials go into the construction.
  • Not Suitable for All Buildings: Certain architectural designs don’t lend themselves to a pitched conversion.
  • More Advanced Repairs: Accessing a roof with a slope and shingle type can be more difficult depending on slope and shingle type.

If you’re considering a roof conversion from a flat roof to a pitched roof, we can walk you through the process from structural design to installation. It’s not all about appearance—it’s about dependability, resale, and long-term comfort.

Roof Conversion: Is It Worth the Investment?

A pitched roof conversion can make a house. But it’s not a blanket decision.

Things to Consider:

Cost vs. ROI: Plan on recouping about 50% of your investment in increased home value.

Insulation: More effective in pitched designs. Flat roofs require sophisticated (and expensive) methods to replicate.

Air Flow: Vapor drive and trapped moisture more prevalent in flat roofs.

Structural Limits: Not all flat roofs are designed to take the weight of a pitch. Our crew will evaluate and stabilize if necessary.

Pro Tip: If your existing flat roof leaks season after season and the repairs just keep adding up, a roof conversion may pay for itself in the long run.

Real Talk: What’s Best for Your Property?

It’s not all about shingles and angles. It’s about how your roof will hold up to Louisiana weather, the amount of maintenance you can manage, and how long you intend to live in your home.

We’ve been serving New Orleans families since 1969 at Westbank Roofing. We don’t think you need to fit into a cookie-cutter roof solution, we think you need a roof that works for you.

Whether you’re leaning flat, pitched, or still undecided, we’ll guide you through:

A complimentary inspection

Material suggestions (Malarkey or GAF? We’ve got both.)

Reasonable budgeting and timeline expectations

Our Storm Watch Program for preventative maintenance

Let’s Make the Right Call for Your Roof

Need a roof replacement or considering a flat-to-pitched conversion?

 Serving New Orleans, Harvey, Belle Chasse, and more.

 Call us at 504-340-4977 or email [email protected]

Come visit us: 1948 Industrial Blvd, Harvey, LA 70058

Flat or pitched, modern or classic, Westbank Roofing’s got you covered. Literally.

Over 50 years and still going strong. Based on family. Committed to your home.