Whether you are searching for a new home or updating your own, the roof is key. Here are 10 different roof types to consider.
Standard asphalt shingles, that are used for roofing, last 20-25 years on average.
Missing shingles and finding damaged pieces are two major signs that your roof needs to be replaced.
If your rooftop is old you will have to decide on the best option to replace it with.
Continue reading to discover all of the different roof types that you can get for your home!
1. Flat
If you are looking to roof an industrial or commercial building, flat rooftops are recommended.
By learning roof basics, you can discover that flat roofs still have a slant so that snow and water don’t accumulate. If you want this style, you must ensure that there is proper drainage.
This rooftop style is an excellent choice if you want to install solar lights. It can also provide an excellent location for gardens and will supply them with plenty of sunlight.
2. Bonnet
Homes with wrap-around porches can benefit from building a bonnet rooftop.
Bonnet roofs consist of low slopes that can angle over your porch areas. This roof style is modern and has been popular in the Louisiana and Mississippi areas. Bonnet roofs offer attic space and extra protection from water damage.
3. Gable
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and rain, you may want to consider getting a gable rooftop.
Gable roofs have a high point and are in a triangle shape. This helps prevent water from accumulating on the roof. These roofs also create a cool attic space that can be used.
Gable roofs are easy to build and much more affordable when compared to other roof types. The downsides of this roof, however, are that they are prone to damage in the hurricane and high wind areas.
4. Saltbox
The saltbox rooftop has been a popular choice for early Colonial homes and Cape Cod home.
It is an asymmetrical design that has one side longer than the other. This roof style is excellent for areas with heavy water and snow. They are durable and don’t collect water on the top.
The only disadvantages of this roof are that you only get half of an attic and they tend to cost more.
5. Hip
A hip rooftop style is an excellent option if you are looking for something stable.
Hip roofs are slanted on all sides and they are the same length. On top of the roof, the slants all come together and create a ridge. This type of roof is perfect for homes that get a lot of snow and have heavy winds. With the slopes on the roof, no water will accumulate.
Although this roof tends to cost more than gable roofs, it is a much better design and offers more space.
6. Butterfly
If you want a v-shaped rooftop, the butterfly design is best.
Butterfly rooftops are modern and tend to be on eco-friendly homes. This design allows for larger windows on the house, which can help lower your energy bills. This rooftop is recommended if you want to allow the most sunlight into your home.
Another reason this roof design is considered eco-friendly is that it has a built-in water collection system that starts at the top.
7. Jerkinhead
For those of you that are interested in both the gable and hip rooftops, jerkinhead is the perfect combination.
Many people consider jerkinhead roofs to be gable roofs, with hip roof ends. This means that the ends of the roof are short with points going downward. This roof type is durable and resistant to high winds.
Although this roof tends to cost more, it is well worth it for a unique look.
8. Mansard
If you like French styles and architecture, you will want to think about getting a mansard rooftop.
This rooftop is also known as the French rooftop. It typically has four sides with double slopes. With the slopes in this spot, it creates a low-pitched roof with flat or curved sides.
Mansard rooftops add additional space to your top floor. This extra space is called a garret and many people use it as living space. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, you may want to look at the different roof types, however.
9. Gambrel
The mansard roof style is unique, but not the best suited for barns.
If you are wanting a cool rooftop that creates a barn and rustic look, you should get a gambrel rooftop. Gambrel rooftops have the same design as mansard, however, they only consist of two sides, instead of four.
The upper slopes on gambrel roofs are rather steep and the upper slope is low. These rooftops offer more space in the home and are a perfect loft or attic area.
10. Skillion
Not all rooftops have multiple sides. Skillion rooftops consist of one angled slope.
Skillion roofs are most commonly used on sheds, porches, and home additions. They are a single slope attached to one wall and another taller one to create the pitched style.
The great thing about this style of a rooftop is that it is easy to make and doesn’t cost too much. It also allows water and snow to drain off quickly.
Take a Look at These Different Roof Types
Every 20 years or so, rooftops need to be replaced because of damage.
There are many different roof types to consider if you are planning on updating yours. If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain and snowfall, you should consider getting gable or hip roofs.
Mansard rooftops, however, would not do well in these conditions. Depending on your location and needs, you can pick the best rooftop for you.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about maintaining your home and improving its appearance!
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