A roof does more than just shield your home from the elements, there are many different roof types. It also adds to the architectural grandeur, enhances energy efficiency, and significantly impacts property value.
With an array of roof types available, the task of picking the right one can seem daunting.
Article explores various types of roofs, their pros and cons, costs, and suitable materials to aid you in making an informed decision.
1. Gable Roofs
Gable roofs, also known as pitched or peaked roofs, are arguably the most popular among different types of roofs. Boasting a simple design, gable roofs comprise two slopes that meet at a ridge, forming a triangular structure often seen in residential homes.
Pros
Gable roofs offer excellent water drainage, ample attic space, and are relatively cost-effective to construct. Their straightforward design allows natural light and ventilation into the attic, reducing heat buildup and moisture damage.
Cons
However, gable roofs may be vulnerable to high winds or heavy precipitation, and their structural stability falls short compared to other roof types.
Materials
Gable roofs can be constructed using diverse materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or clay tiles, allowing homeowners to choose what suits their needs best.
2. Hip Roofs
Hip roofs, characterized by four equal sloping sides meeting at a ridge, are another prevalent choice. Offering a uniform appearance, hip roofs are known for their stability and excellent resistance to wind.
Pros
The design of hip roofs offers equal support to all sides, evenly distributing the roof’s weight, reducing the risk of structural damage from harsh weather conditions.
Cons
However, they are more complex and expensive to design and construct than other roof styles and pose a challenge in maintenance due to their steep angles.
Materials
Hip roofs can be constructed from various materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, or clay tiles.
3. Dutch Gable Roofs
A Dutch Gable roof, or a Dutch Hip roof, is a hybrid that combines the characteristics of a traditional gable roof and a hip roof. It features a small gable at the top of a standard hip roof, providing additional attic space and aesthetic appeal.
Pros
Dutch Gable roofs offer enhanced architectural appeal and complexity, making them ideal for custom-designed homes. They are excellent for water drainage due to their slopes and valleys and provide added stability against wind.
Cons
However, the complexity in their structure can make maintenance more challenging. Regular inspections for leaks, especially along the valleys, are crucial.
Materials
Dutch Gable roofs typically use materials such as asphalt shingles, metal shingles, standing seam, or clay tiles.
4. Gambrel Roofs
Reminiscent of barn or Dutch roofs, gambrel roofs are a distinctive design with two slopes on each side. The lower slope is steeper than the upper one, which allows additional living or storage space in the attic.
Pros
Gambrel roofs provide extra living space for attics or lofts, offer efficient water drainage, and have an aesthetically pleasing design.
Cons
While the steep lower slopes of gambrel roofs are good for snow and water runoff, the design can be susceptible to heavy snow load on the upper, shallower slope unless properly reinforced.
Materials
Gambrel roofs primarily use asphalt shingles, metal panels, or clay tiles.
5. Mansard Roofs
Featuring a French design, Mansard roofs are more challenging to build than hip or gable roofs. They feature two slopes within one on each side, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper one.
Pros
Mansard roofs offer extra living space, good protection against the elements, and efficient water runoff. The overhangs offer shade and shelter around the building.
Cons
Mansard roofs can be more complex than simple gable or hip roofs due to the variation in slopes, which can increase construction costs.
Materials
Mansard roofs usually employ materials such as asphalt, metal panels, or wood shingles.
6. Butterfly Roofs
Butterfly roofs, also known as V-roofs or split gable roofs, are characterized by two slopes that descend from the center, creating a V-shaped appearance. This design is commonly used in modern and contemporary architecture and is often associated with clean, minimalist lines and a focus on functionality.
Pros
Butterfly roofs provide plenty of light and ventilation in the interior space but are problematic for draining rainwater.
Cons
They are more complex and expensive to design and construct than other roof styles. Additionally, the roof design may require additional structural support, which can increase the roofing project cost.
Materials
Butterfly roofs can be made from various materials, including metal, asphalt shingles, or concrete.
7. Skillion Roofs
Also known as a shed roof, a skillion roof is a single, sloping roof surface, typically attached to a taller wall. It’s a straightforward design that differs from traditional pitched roofs, offering a modern, angular appearance.
Pros
Skillion roofs are cost-effective due to their simplicity and use fewer materials. They offer a contemporary look and are ideal for solar panel installation due to their angle, and provide excellent water runoff.
Cons
Generally, skillion roofs do not provide as much attic space as traditional pitched roofs. Their single-sloped structure can limit the headroom, making them less ideal for additional living or storage space.
Materials
Skillion roofs are often constructed using fewer materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or corrugated steel.
8. A-Frame Roofs
An A-frame roof, also known as a triangular roof, is characterized by steep, sloping sides that converge at the ridge, forming a triangular shape. This roof design is commonly found in homes and buildings with a contemporary or modern architectural style.
Pros
A-Frame roofs offer excellent drainage, reduce snow load concerns, and are aesthetically unique.
Cons
Due to their steep slopes, A-Frame roofs generally don’t allow for traditional attic or loft spaces.
Materials
A-frame roofs typically use asphalt, metal panels, or wood shingles.
9. Bonnet Roofs
Bonnet roofs are a type of roof design characterized by a sloping surface covering a portion of the building, typically the upper floor or attic space. The roof design typically features two sides that slope downward gently, creating a distinctive and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Pros
Bonnet roofs provide extra living space, good protection against the elements, and efficient water runoff.
Cons
Bonnet roofs can be more complex and expensive to design and construct than other roof styles. They may not be suitable for areas with heavy snowfall or rainfall.
Materials
Bonnet roofs can be made from various materials, including asphalt, metal, or wood shingles.
10. Sawtooth Roofs
Sawtooth roofs are very characteristic of factories and industrial buildings. They are used for the purpose of allowing natural light to enter.
Pros
Sawtooth roofs allow for high ceilings, lofted living space, and larger windows for increased natural light.
Cons
They are expensive to install and maintain. They allow for eco-friendly additions like radiant heating and solar panel installation.
Materials
Sawtooth roofs can be made using a variety of materials, including wood shingles and shakes, metal shingles, and reinforced concrete.
11. Flat Roofs
Flat roofs, though not exactly flat, are low-sloped roofs that appear flat. They are very common in commercial properties but are also seen in residential homes.
Pros
Flat roofs provide an opportunity for future levels to be added to a home and work well with open floor plans.
Cons
Flat roofs are extremely prone to leaks and are commonly sealed with PVC, TPO, or rubber membrane.
Materials
Flat roofs can be constructed using metal sheets, TPO, PVC, or rubber membrane, and rolled roofing.
12. Green Roofs
Green roofs, or living roofs, are essentially small gardens in the form of a roof. They are excellent in managing water runoff, insulating a home, and putting clean oxygen back into the air.
Pros
Green roofs have a beneficial impact on the environment, reducing air pollution and absorbing up to 90% of rainfall, preventing flooding and decimating polluted runoff.
Cons
The cost of building and maintaining a green roof can add up quickly. Additionally, it requires a lot of maintenance, especially to keep the plants alive and well.
Materials
Green roofs are more about the vegetation and less about the material used, but typically, a waterproof membrane is used.
In conclusion, the type of roof you choose should complement your home’s architectural style, withstand local climate conditions, and fit within your budget.
Remember, a well-chosen roof not only protects your home but also enhances its aesthetic appeal and increases its market value.