The look of your roof often defines the aesthetic of your house. Are you going for sleek and modern or country chic? Though the attention usually lies on your roofing material, like asphalt shingles or metal roofing, the shape and style of your roof are also important to consider.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing from these roofing styles. However, only a few have withstood the test of time. These popular and traditional roofing styles are usually more affordable and easier to build.
While all have their pros and cons, it’s all about your needs and preferences. Check out these seven popular roofing styles to choose the roof that works best for your home.
Gable
The gable roof is your traditional triangle-shaped roof. There are many different variations of the gable roof based on the shape of your home, but the basic gable roof will have two planes that meet at an edge at the top. Variations include open gable, box gable, and Dutch gable.
Gable roofs are great because they’re quick and easy to build. Because of this, they’re also more cost-effective. The style of any variation of the gable roof can also be combined with other roofing styles so you can customize your roof for the look you’re going for.
However, on the flip side, if you’re looking for something unique, this may not be your style. The gable roof is traditional and doesn’t offer much in the way of interesting style.
Hip
Hip roofs are also traditional in style and are created by building 4 gradual slopes that meet at a ridge at the top of the roof. These are more expensive than gable roofs; however, they are also more sturdy. The 4 walls give the roof more stability during heavy wind, rain, and snow.
Like gabled roofs, they also have variations and can be combined with other styles. Different styles of the hip roof include the cross hip, half-hipped, and pyramid hip roof. If this style is speaking to you already, check out Prr247.com and contact Point Roofing for hip roofing estimates in Boise!
This style is perfect if you don’t mind spending a bit more on longevity. Both hip and gable roofs can also, for the most part, use any roofing material. Whether you prefer the look and durability of metal roofing or want to save money and go with the traditional asphalt shingles, you have your pick with hip roofs.
M-Shaped
M-shaped roofs are just what they sound like! There are 4 planes that, when put together, form two ridges and a valley shaped like an M. The cool thing about M-shaped houses is that they’re a statement. You can make the sides symmetrical or switch up the lengths to give it a modern asymmetrical look.
However, there are a couple of downfalls. M-shaped roofs are much more prone to leaking and roof damage because of the large valley created in the middle. While any roof valley is more susceptible to damage, M-shaped roofs don’t give leaves or branches anywhere to go if they get stuck there. Yet, M shaped roofs are handy because there is plenty of functional attics or upstairs space.
Flat
A flat roof is a bold statement. While most residential flat roofs have a slight incline to allow for water drainage, the appearance is starkly level. You can even switch up the look by adding multiple levels for a more modern aesthetic.
Truly flat roofs require special building materials. Whether you choose to go with the classic BUR (built-up-roof), which uses layers of asphalt and reinforcing sheets covered with an aggregate material such as gravel. One pro for this style is that the aggregate is highly fire retardant, which is safer for you and your family.
Unfortunately, flat roofs are also more prone to leaks and need more consistent roof repair, which means you can’t use shingles. They need a clean, solid seal to prevent leaks. For slightly sloped roofs that have the appearance of being flat, metal or slate roofing are good options because they don’t have to be cut into intricate shapes or sizes.
Shed
Shed roofs are about as simple as it gets. However, the shed roof’s asymmetry can also be elegant in combination with the right roofing materials. Shed roofs are built as one plane at an incline but can also be combined with other planes on opposite sides to create intersecting lines.
A shed roof can stand out with metal roofing, cedar plank roofing, or even interesting colored asphalt shingle roofing. The choice of material is up to you as long as it can withstand whatever weather comes your way. The blunt simplicity of a shed style roof also makes them cost-effective. You could even consider spending more on quality roofing materials because of what you save in choosing this style.
A-Frame
The A-frame style roof is similar to a gable roof; however, the two planes are steep, and the ends come much closer to the ground, oftentimes also acting as 2 of the house’s exterior walls. A-frames can give you that storybook “cabin in the woods” look.
One great thing about A-frame roofs is that they’re the perfect shape for regions that get heavy snowfall. The steep sides allow snow and ice to fall right off, putting less strain on your house over time.
Though while they are good with heavy snow, they don’t fare well energy-wise. The high ceilings and lack of space for insulation tend to make it difficult for them to remain at a constant temperature, which ultimately means utilities will be more expensive.
Not to mention, A-frame houses are notorious for their odd walls because they’re also the roof. This can make interior styling difficult for some sections.
Gambrel
The gambrel roof is a fun shape that can best be described as what a barn roof looks like. It forms an angular arch with at least 4 different planes. It’s relatively simple to build, so costs aren’t too high, and it still gives your house a distinct aesthetic.
Gambrel roofs also usually have plenty of attic space from where the steep parts of the roof meet the more level angles. However, Gambrel roofs sustain more damage to the top of the roof, making them more difficult to replace. They also don’t ward off snow well if you’re in an area that gets heavy snowfall.
Roofing Styles for You
Choosing the right roofing style or a combination of roofing styles should come down to your needs and style preferences. All of these roofing styles are functional and look great, but which one is best for your home?
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