Your home extension plans are coming together. You’ve mapped out the interiors and chosen finishes. But one choice will shape the project’s style, performance, and value: the roof. So, do you prefer pitched roofs for their classic charm or flat roofs for their modern style? No matter which, your choice will affect comfort, maintenance, and kerb appeal for years to come. A pitched roof extension is durable, energy-efficient, and complements traditional homes. In contrast, a flat roof delivers a clean, contemporary profile and can often be built at a lower upfront cost.
This guide compares the benefits of each option and shares practical ideas for homes in the South of England. It helps you find a solution that balances style, budget, and long-term performance.
Pitched roofs are a popular choice for many UK homeowners. They are durable and suit various property styles. Their angled design helps rainwater drain effectively, lowering the risk of water damage. This is a key consideration in regions with above-average rainfall, such as South West England. Here in the South West, we receive around 900 mm annually, which is about 120 mm more than the UK average!
Key benefits of a pitched roof include:
Our extensions deliver designs made just for your home and also meet building regulations from the very beginning.
A well-planned pitched roof extension can enhance both the style and usability of your home. Here are some proven approaches we’ve delivered for clients in Dorset, Somerset, and surrounding counties:
For real examples of these concepts in action, view our gallery of past builds.
Flat roofs have improved a lot due to modern materials like EPDM rubber and fibreglass. With good care, these roofs can last 25 to 30 years. They’re a strong option if you want a streamlined, contemporary look and the flexibility to incorporate rooftop features.
Advantages of flat roofs include:
If you’re considering a modern profile for your home, explore our extension features service for design inspiration.
Flat roofs often save around 40–50% on materials and labour for a like-for-like footprint. RightSurvey’s industry figures reveal that a felt flat roof can cost up to 45% less than a slate pitched roof of the same size.
However, the lower initial cost should be weighed against the shorter lifespan of many flat-roof membranes. This can lead to earlier re-covering or rejuvenation work in the middle of a pitched roof’s life. Factoring in both upfront and lifetime costs helps you see the overall value. This way, you can budget for the whole life cycle of your extension.
If you’d like to see real examples of both types of extension in action, our videos show you completed projects in our factory and showroom.
In England, there is something known as Class A of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015. This allows numerous single-storey rear extensions without needing full planning permission. However, there are limits on size and height.
Detached homes can extend 8m beyond their rear wall, while other houses can extend 6m beyond their rear wall. They need to submit a neighbour consultation application first. The ridge height must not exceed 4m unless it gets formal approval. The same rights stipulate that extensions must cover no more than 50% of the original property’s curtilage. Any breach may require a retrospective complete planning application.
Pitched and flat designs must follow building rules for drainage, insulation, and safety. But don’t worry, we handle these checks during our build process.
The right choice for your extension will depend on a mix of:
Speaking with homeowners who’ve faced the same decision can be invaluable. Our testimonials include genuine feedback from clients who selected pitched and flat designs. They provide insight into the long-term benefits of each choice.
Choosing between a pitched or flat roof extension will shape your home’s look, performance, and value for years. A pitched roof provides timeless style and strong durability. In contrast, a flat roof offers modern flexibility and quicker installation. The right choice balances design, function, and budget for your needs.
At Single Storey Extensions, we manage every part of your project. From the start of the design to the finish of the build, we’ll ensure your extension is compliant, practical, and long-lasting. Whether you’re considering a pitched roof or a flat roof extension, we’ll create a space that enhances your lifestyle and kerb appeal.
Call 0331 6302551 or get in touch for a free consultation and take the first step toward making your vision a reality.
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