Low Sloped Roofs 2026
Low sloped roofs have quite a few advantages over steeper roofs. For one, they are easier and safer to install, which means lower installation costs. However, they do require certain materials and proper drainage in order to prevent water pooling and damage. Let's take a closer look at this popular roof style and unearth the good, the bad, and what low sloped roofs will cost to replace.
👉 Always compare multiple quotes — it’s the easiest way to save money.
Low Sloped Roof Pros And Cons
Before choosing a low sloped roof, it’s important to undertand the pros and cons of these roofs, as well as how much you can expect to pay.
Low Slope Roof Advantages
Here are the four main advantages for this roof style.
- Lower Installation Cost: since they are safer than steep roofs, they lower the cost of labor.
- Improved Safety: Lower sloped roofs are safer and reduce injury and workers comp.
- Faster Installation: the ease of movement and better safety allow roofers to quickly tackle projects.
- Better Fit For Solar Panels: low slope roofs are better and easier to install solar panels or even hvac systems.
Low Sloped Roof Disadvantages
Here are the four main disadvantages for this roof style.
- Drainage Issues: low slope roofs obviously do not drain as well as steep roof and can lead to water pooling and leaks.
- Limited Material Options: low sloped roofs lend themselves to a handful of materials.
- Higher Maintenance Needs: regular roof checks are necessary to insure that water, snow, debris, etc. aren't sitting for long periods of time.
- Shorter Lifespan: in many cases, low sloped roofs have shorter lifespans, although regular checks can greater increase the lifespan.
Best Materials For Low Slope Roofs
There are certain materials that lend themselves better toward low sloped roofs. Here are some of the most common.
- Torch Down - this is the most common and least expensive options - more on Torch Down Roofing
- Concrete Tiles - more expensive, but still a popular material choice - more on Concrete Tile Roof Costs
- Corrugated Materials - much less popular, but relatively cheap and interesting looking - more on Corrugated Roof Costs
- EPDM Rubber Roof - a clean and modern look and often used for this roof style - more on EPDM Rubber Roof Costs
Worker's Compensation Reduction
One of the biggest contractor expense is worker's compensation insurance, which can account for a whopping 30% of the roofers price quote. Worker's comp is affected by a number of factors that are beyond the scope of this article, however the biggest factor is typically the state where the contractor is licensed. Places like California have very high worker's comp, while less populous state tend to have lower worker's compensation insurance. Low sloed roofs are less dangerous work environments for roofers than medium or steep roof lines because there is less chance of injury and insurance claims from the crew.
Concrete Tile
Low sloped roofs are commonly associated with specific types of roofing materials. One of the most common materials is concrete tile roofing, which is extremely popular in warm climates like California and Arizona.
Corrugated Materials
