Many new homeowners who build their homes underestimate the importance of the roof. Your roof is not just about shielding your family and belongings from the elements, it’s also a key factor in the house’s overall design, energy efficiency, and longevity.
When installing a new roof, there’s more to consider than just choosing between a pitched or flat design. In recent years, aesthetics have become more important, and now there are various roof styles to choose from. Sure, a roofer can help you get the best idea, but it’s still a good idea to know the available roof styles.
In this guide, we’ll explore 13 distinct roof types. Each style offers different advantages that can enhance both your living space and home value.
#1 Gable Roof: Design, Materials, and Considerations
Let’s start our list of roof types with one of the most popular and versatile options: the gable roof. This roof type, characterized by its triangular shape, is loved for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and effective water drainage. If you are new to roofing, this design resembles the picture of a home a child might draw.
When deciding on materials, asphalt shingles and metal roofs stand out for their durability and compatibility with the gable design.
While a gable roof might be an affordable choice, it does have its own set of considerations. It’s important to note that this roof type may not stand up to high winds as well as other roof shapes. So, if you live in a high-wind area, additional structural support might be necessary.
Common Gable Roof Variants:
The basic gable design has evolved into several popular variations. The front gable faces the front of the house, commonly seen in Colonial-style homes. The cross gable combines two or more gable sections that intersect at right angles, perfect for homes with complex layouts. The Dutch gable combines a hip roof with a small gable at the top, offering extra attic space while maintaining the classic gable appearance.
#2 Hip Roof: Balancing Stability and Costs
One of the biggest debates in the roofing industry is between hip and gable roofs. Although you might be drawn to the simplicity of the gable roof, don’t overlook the hip roof’s potential, especially if you live in wind-prone Wisconsin.
With all four sides sloping downwards, a hip roof offers superior stability, particularly in high-wind areas. Its design, providing excellent drainage, is a strong contender if you’re building in a region prone to heavy rainfall.
For materials, clay tiles or asphalt shingles are both resilient options. Installing impact-resistant roofing shingles will provide you with an even more durable roofing system.
It’s worth noting that the complexity of the hip roof’s design may drive up construction costs. However, considering the balance of durability and cost, a hip roof is a worthwhile investment.
#3 Mansard Roof: Extra Space With a Touch of Elegance
Having taken a close look at hip and gable roofs, let’s talk about the mansard roof. This roof type, featuring two slopes on each of its four sides, is one of the most complex roof shapes.
The lower slope is steeper and almost vertical, while the upper slope is nearly invisible from the ground. This roof style has a European touch and also provides extra living space, making it perfect for an attic or loft conversion.
If you are moving to a home with a mansard roof, chances are it will have an old slate or tile roof, both of which last a long time. But if it’s time for replacement, asphalt shingles or clay tiles are often recommended.
However, keep in mind that the mansard’s complex design can be more expensive to construct and may require regular maintenance.
#4 Gambrel Roof: Classic Aesthetics and Spacious Interiors
Shifting our focus from the French mansard roof, we now move to a style of roof related to the gable roof: the gambrel roof. This design features two slopes on each side, with the upper slope less steep than the lower one.
Its structure maximizes interior space, providing ample room for an attic or even an additional floor. The unique shape of the roof is reminiscent of traditional barn styles, adding a warm and inviting rustic feel that many people find appealing.
Despite its advantages, it’s crucial to know that this roof style isn’t ideal for heavy snowfall areas as accumulation can cause strain. With the right materials, like metal, a gambrel roof can be a durable, appealing choice for your new home.
#5 Flat Roof: Modern, Cost-Effective, and Functional
Despite its deceiving name, a flat roof doesn’t mean it’s completely horizontal. There’s a slight pitch, just enough to drain water. But yes, at a glance, it does appear flat.
So, why choose a flat roof? For starters, installing a flat roof will cost less than a pitched roof. The installation process is less complex than many other roof types, saving you time and money. It’s also functional, which is why it is a staple for commercial buildings.
As a homeowner, you can utilize a flat roof as a rooftop garden, a patio, or even for solar panels. Regarding aesthetics, it offers a modern, sleek look, making it a popular choice for contemporary homes.
And for limitations, these types of roofs need a proper drainage system to prevent water pooling. Regular maintenance is also key to keeping it in top shape.
Also Read: The Ultimate Guide To Roofing Materials for Flat Roofs
#6 Butterfly Roof: An Eco-Friendly Roofing Solution
When you think of a butterfly roof, imagine two panels angled in a V-shape that meet in the middle, much like the wings of a butterfly ready for flight. This unique design is more than just visually appealing, it’s a smart, eco-friendly choice for your new home. This is the one to choose when you want to stand out (and if you have a flexible budget).
The inward slope of the roof allows for efficient rainwater collection, perfect for drought-prone areas. Additionally, the elevated outer edges of the butterfly roof provide ample space for large windows, enhancing natural light and promoting energy efficiency.
Despite these benefits, butterfly roofs can be complex to construct and as we said, do require a larger budget. But, for the right homeowner, it’s a stylish, sustainable option worth considering.
#7 Saw-Tooth Roof: Industrial Style With Natural Light
Taking inspiration from the eco-friendly butterfly roof, let’s focus on another architectural standout that’s both practical and aesthetically appealing – the saw-tooth roof.
This type of roof, named for its resemblance to a saw blade, features multiple parallel roofs with alternating slopes. Though not as popular now, it was once a favorite for industrial-style homes and eco-friendly buildings due to its unique ability to allow natural light while maintaining a robust roof structure.
The materials often used include metal and glass panels, enhancing the modern, industrial look while ensuring durability.
However, it’s worth noting that the saw-tooth design can be expensive to build and maintain due to its complexity.
#8 Skillion Roof: Simplicity and Solar Compatibility
One of the most talked about designs and the one that you might see on modern-style homes is the skillion roof.
If you’re looking for a home with a modern, functional aesthetic, the skillion roof, with its simplicity and solar compatibility, might be your solution. Also known as a shed roof, it has a single, sloping roof surface, often not attached to any other roof surface — think of it as half a pitched roof.
Its steep slope makes it ideal for rainy climates, as water easily drains off. But what really stands out is its compatibility with solar panels due to its pitch and orientation. The design allows maximum exposure to sunlight, making it a green, energy-efficient choice.
Remember that proper drainage is key to avoiding water-related issues.
#9 Bonnet Roof: Extending Protection and Shade
Moving on to the bonnet roof, this is a roof that you will mostly see on hotels or resorts. You’ll notice that it extends beyond just covering the house – it provides extra shade and protection to your outdoor spaces.
This roof style, also known as a kicked-eaves roof, features a double slope on all sides, with the lower slope extending further out. This overhang is ideal for shielding porches or verandas from the elements.
Constructed typically with materials like asphalt shingles or metal, the bonnet roof is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
However, the added material and complex design can make it pricier than other options.
#10 Jerkinhead Roof: Combining Aesthetics and Wind Resistance
In contrast to the extended coverage of the bonnet roof, the jerkinhead roof design has a perfect balance of aesthetic appeal and resilience.
This design is a hybrid of the gable and hip roofs, with the gable ends trimmed down, creating a unique look. For this reason, you might see some contractors referring to this style as a half-hip or clipped gable roof.
What’s remarkable about the jerkinhead roof isn’t just its distinct appearance, but also its ability to withstand high winds. This resilience against wind is due to its clipped ends, lessening the wind’s force on the roof.
Although a bit more complex to construct than a standard gable roof, it’s worth it for the added durability. Asphalt shingles suit this roof type and are often used for it.
#11 Curved Roof: A Modern, Artistic Touch
If you’re looking for a modern, artistic touch for your home, consider our next roof type: the curved roof. This smooth, flowing design offers a striking aesthetic compared to traditional angular roofing styles.
But beyond aesthetics, a curved roof, typically crafted from metal or standing seam panels, also holds functional benefits. The curved structure improves wind resistance, enhancing the roof’s durability in storm-prone regions.
But, keep in mind that the materials and complex construction process can drive up costs. So, if you’re considering a curved roof, it’s essential to balance your desire for a unique design with your budget constraints.
But rest assured, a curved roof can offer an elegant, modern twist to your home’s architecture.
#12 Pyramid Roof: Superior Drainage and Wind Resistance
If you want a simple, good-looking roof that works well, the pyramid roof is a great choice.
This type of roof, as the name suggests, forms a pyramid with four equal triangular sides converging at a single point. As a type of hip roof, it’s a perfect choice for small buildings like gazebos or pool houses. For larger structures, a pyramid hip roof offers similar benefits but needs to be built to accommodate greater square footage.
The steep slope provides excellent drainage, reducing the risk of water damage. Additionally, its symmetrical shape offers superior wind resistance, making it ideal for high-wind regions.
However, its complex design can increase construction costs.
The best-suited materials for pyramid roofs include metal and clay tiles, both of which improve durability and longevity.
#13 Combination Roof: Customizing for Functionality and Design
A combination roof integrates two or more roofing styles, providing a unique design that caters to your specific needs.
The primary advantage is its customization aspect. You can mix and match different styles to enhance both aesthetic appeal and functionality. For instance, a flat roof section may be paired with a gable for added architectural interest.
However, remember that with increased complexity comes higher construction costs. Additionally, maintaining uniformity in design can be challenging.
Importance of Choosing The Right Roof Type In Home Construction
Choosing the right roof type is an important decision that impacts not only the aesthetics but also the durability and longevity of your home.
The roof type or the structure you select (both as a new homeowner or even when you are moving to your home) plays a big role in your home’s overall architectural style, contributing to its visual appeal and curb appeal. More importantly, it acts as a shield against various weather conditions, protecting your home’s structure and interior.
Consequently, the right roof type should be robust, weather-resistant, and suitable for your region’s climate patterns. Opting for a durable roof type can also lead to long-term cost savings by reducing maintenance and replacement needs.
Factors That Affect The Type Of Roof You Install
Before you finalize a roof type for your new home, considering several influencing factors is vital to guarantee you’re making the best choice.
First, consider your budget. Different roofing materials and designs vary greatly in cost. As you have seen from the list above, several modern roofing designs are quite complex and, hence, will cost more. Expensive options, such as a mansard roof or a butterfly roof, also offer superior durability or aesthetics.
In addition, the architectural style of your home can dictate the appropriate roof type. A mismatch between your home’s style and the roof can lead to a less-than-desirable aesthetic outcome.
Finally, don’t overlook the longevity of the roof type. Some roof designs are more durable and require less maintenance, providing long-term savings. However, roof durability also depends on your local climate. We cover this in our next section.
The Role of Climate in Choosing a Roof Type
Given that climate plays a pivotal role in dictating the durability and longevity of a roof, it’s important to factor in your region’s weather conditions when choosing a roof type.
For example in Wisconsin, which we all know is prone to heavy snow, a steeply sloping roof like a gable or hip roof allows snow to slide off easily can be beneficial.
Also, high-wind regions, another characteristic of Wisconsin weather, need strong, resilient designs and materials like stone-coated steel or clay tiles.
If you don’t live in Wisconsin and reside in a hot, sunny climate, consider roof shapes that can support solar panels like skillion roofs. Wet climates, on the other hand, favor roofing types that support strong gutter systems like butterfly roofs.
Understanding how your climate interacts with different roofing materials and designs can help you choose a roof that will stand the test of time.
Aligning Roof Design with Architectural Style
While it’s vital to take into account weather conditions and budget, it’s also important to match your roof design with your home’s architectural style.
A well-chosen roof can enhance your home’s aesthetics, adding value and curb appeal. For instance, a modern home may benefit from a flat or butterfly roof, while a traditional colonial might look best with a classic gable or hip roof.
It’s not just about looks, though. The right roof design can also improve your home’s energy efficiency and weather resistance.
Remember, architectural harmony between your roof and house is just as important as its functional performance.
How to Budget for Your New Roof: Practical Steps
After you’ve chosen the ideal roof type based on your home’s architecture and climate, the next step is to make sure it fits your budget. Roofing can be a significant financial commitment, but with careful planning, you can manage both the immediate and long-term costs.
Estimate the Total Project Cost
Start by gathering a rough estimate of the total cost for your roofing project. This includes the cost of roofing material and the labor. Make sure to include any extra services such as roof removal (if you’re replacing an old roof), inspections, and permits.
Create a Contingency Fund
No matter how well you plan, unexpected costs can come up during a roofing project. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund of about 10% to 20% of your estimated total project cost. This can cover:
- Hidden issues that may arise, like damaged decking or structural problems.
- Extra materials or unforeseen weather-related delays.
Explore Financing Options
If the total cost of your roof is more than you expected, there are several financing options available. Some roofing companies offer in-house financing or can connect you to lenders. These might come with flexible payment options, too.
Importance Of A Good Roofer In New Roof Installation!
As we know, installing a new roof might be expensive, but it’s a long-term investment. That’s why it is very important to hire a professional roofing company for your project.
At Prestige Roofing LLC, we have years of experience in new roof installation services. From simple flat roofs to more complex hip roofs, we do it all. We also offer financing options to make your project more manageable. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 to learn more.