I have a semi flat roof about 2800 sq/ft and 12 x 2.5 slope. Originally it was Rubberized roof with 3/4 some cork like sheet insulation and infested with Carpenter Ants as it always leaked bad.10 years back it was replaced with deck and shingles and all other requirements for keeping it dry I.e. Water barrier shield etc. Last winter Ice dams caused major damage to my ceiling which is Tongue and groove wood panels. Now I would like to increase the pitch, install ventilation(there is non) and provide ventilation to the entire roof to avoid any future damage to the inside or outside. I have been recommended Cool-vent panels by Hunter which comes with 2"-4"-6" thickness.I may also need to replace my present chimney or have it removed in favor of gas fireplace.It is a beautiful house and I have already spent over $30,000 10 yrs back. Can some one please guide me what are my best options and what should be the approx cost of the project.
Thank you,
Abe Ghanchi

Your house is something like 40 x 70 and has that low of a pitch?

I can't imagine how you would increase the pitch easily. I would want to rip it all off and build a typical peaked and gabled roof, with floor insulation, trusses, and some combination of ridge vent, gable vents, or roof surface vents, and overhangs, soffits, and gutters. If you want a usable attic, no trusses, rafter insulation to the peak, and air channels to a ridge vent. Or build a ceiling with gable vents above it.

I would get at least 3 quotes from contractors who have known reputations and not necesssarily take the cheapest. Along with the chimney removal and new type of fireplace, you are talking a ton of money, as much as many of us would pay for a small house. I don't know if I would undertake this kind of expense and would probably keep trying to repair the existing roof, adding maybe some kind of skirt around the edge to deal with the ice dams.

Agree with Joypulv. Many homes of this design find similar problems. I just saw a house near me, AtlantaGA, where they put a 5/12 truss roof over the house and then finished it with 3 tab shingles. Incredible change, looked beautiful. Not cheap but better than dealing with a flat roof and water problems every year.

Joypulv seems to have the best answer. Don't skimp on getting your 3 estimates. Roofing companies can vary widely by price and QUALITY of work which would be my main concern...

http://kgrroofing.com/Charlotte.html