Types of Roofing

Roofs have a long historic connection and a particular architectural roof types tells one more about the cultural influences of a region. There are many things that require particular roofing types, like a letter box, to a church, a stadium, and even a bus stop.

In a home, the roof protects the house from environmental conditions. In a garden, roofs protect the conservatory from cold, wind, and rain, but allows sunlight to reach the plants under it. The roofing type in a veranda may help protect the area from sunlight. Thus, according to the various needs, there are different types of roofing.

The gable roof is one of the most popular types of roofs for homes. This roofing has two surfaces that are of the same size. They are pitched at the same angle, back-to-back. This makes a ridge at the top and forms a triangular roof.

This type is a very cheap design and easy to make. It provides good ventilation and more ceiling space. However, it is not good for high wind areas, as it can suffer from damage.

The two ridges formed are perpendicular to each other. The length, pitches, and heights of the two roofs may or may not differ from each other. You can use this roofing type for Tudor and Cape Cod style homes.

However, you may need to re-roof these more often, as the materials last for about 10 to 20 years. Also, if the pooled water is not cleared regularly, the roof may get damaged. If you live in areas that receive more rain and snow, this roof is not an ideal choice.

This a popular roof type that was made by architect Francois Mansart in the 1600s in France. This type of roof has two distinctly different slopes on each side. The upper portion has a low slope, so that just enough water run-off can occur. The low slope cannot be seen from the ground. The lower part of the roof has a steep pitch with dormers attached.

This roofing offers a lot of attic space. It also provides additional space known as the 'garret'. If you live in heavy snowfall areas, this type is not recommended. The snow can build up on the low slope portion and cause strain on the bracing.

This type is similar to gable roofs with all sides of the slopes meeting the walls of the house. You can use this type if you live in areas of high winds or hurricanes. They have a good internal bracing and are not easily peeled off. Hipped roofs offer less internal roof space, thus providing less storage areas.

This is a hipped roof type that forms a pyramid shape. There are four equal triangles that meet at a single point at the top of the roof.

This one is similar to a gable roof. It has two sides that are not symmetrical to each other.

The shed roof has a single roof face that slopes down the entire structure. It is sometimes referred to as lean-to roof. It is one of the easiest and the cheapest roofs to build.

This type, like the Mansard roof, has two distinct slopes with two symmetrical sides. The top slope is lower and the bottom slope has a steep pitch that can be nearly vertical. It is also known as the barn roof, as it is commonly seen in hay barns. It has ample space for storage.

The bonnet roof is the least common type of roof that you may come across. It is a type of modified hipped roof that is found in French Vernacular architecture. This architectural roof type is opposite to the Mansard types of roof.

The upper slope is steeper than the bottom slope, and the bottom slope hangs over the house. Thus, it covers the open-sided porch and gives shelter from the sun and rain. These types are also known as 'kicked eaves' roof.

You need to take into consideration the various weather, environmental, and cost factors while choosing the type of roofing.