Flat Roofs Have Fans And Foes

"The flat-roof trend is being driven in part by people seeking the best return on their investment amid soaring property values in recent years. It also demonstrates how zoning restrictions communities passed in recent years have backfired."

The inherent cause of this type of design lies in recent attempts by municipalities to prevent "monsterization" on small lots. The end result is a boxy-shaped house that is out of character with the existing neighborhood.

To combat this trend, local officials in areas such as Bethany Beach, Delaware, and St. Augustine, Florida, have banned flat roofs. Besides concerns over aesthetics, some critics argue over the inherent safety of this type of design.

"Flat roofs can also have drawbacks for owners. They generally don't stand up well to heavy rain and snow, and can require more frequent maintenance than roofs with a traditional pitch, contractors say. Flat roofs can also be more expensive to build, requiring more structural support."

What's more, some realtors complain that flat-roofed styled homes are harder to sell because they "stick out like a sore thumb."