Top 7 Roof Types and Their Unique Properties

If you are planning on renovating your house or building one from scratch, there are many things that you will need to take into account if you want it to look nice. Its roof is definitely going to be one of those things. After all, most people will pay attention to it immediately after seeing your house for the first time. Considering this, you should put a lot of time and effort into choosing the right roof type for your home. Only then will you be able to make a well-informed decision.

While it might sound like a challenging task, it does not have to be this way. After all, we are here to help you out! In this article, you will find a few most common roof types and their unique properties, ranging from the flat roof and the mansard roof to the butterfly roof and the gable roof. Once you are done reading, choosing the right roof type for your home should become a whole lot easier!

Gable Roof

One of the most common roof types is the gable roof. It is used in a wide range of home designs, and it can be found in residential and commercial buildings. The reason why it is so popular is the fact that it is very durable. Even though it consists of only two individual layers, it is equipped with strong framing, and you can expect it to last for decades. However, you should know that it might not be the best choice if you live in an area with heavy snowfall – since the snow could easily pile up on top of your roof, causing damage to your home.

Flat Roof

Another popular and affordable roof type is the flat roof. You can find it on a wide array of buildings, including houses, commercial buildings, barns, sheds, warehouses and more. The reason why so many people prefer this roof type is its affordability. Unlike other types, a flat roof does not require you to install additional framing or any other complex structure – when you choose materials for a flat roof, all you need is a single layer of strong material, and you are good to go. Its main downside, however, is the fact that it is not very durable and it can be damaged easily by floods or other weather-related factors.

Butterfly Roof

A butterfly roof is considered to be one of the most elegant and as well as one of the most popular types out there. It has been used in residential buildings for many decades now, and even though it has existed for such a long time, it still looks fresh and modern.

 This type of roof features a large number of sloping sides, and they are usually arranged in an alternating pattern. A few years ago, more homeowners started using this type of roof on their homes. The reason for this was its affordability and versatility – you can freely combine it with almost any home design!

Mansard Roof

The mansard roof is one of the most popular types when it comes to residential buildings. It has a distinctive shape, which consists of two different sloping sides that are arranged in an alternating pattern. This type of roof is a bit more expensive than other types, but it will definitely last for many decades. It is also very durable, and it can withstand any weather conditions. However, you should know that it requires a lot of maintenance in order to keep its good looks – it gets dirty easily, and it tends to collect dust!

Semi-Flat Roof

Another great choice is the semi-flat roof. This type of roof is a bit more expensive than flat roofs, but it is still considered to be affordable. It is perfect for people who want a stylish home design, but they do not want to pay too much for it. The main difference between flat and semi-flat roofs is that the latter features a slope that is somewhere in between the two. It is not as steep as the flat roof, but it is not as shallow as the gable roof either.

Conical Roof

If you are interested in getting a unique look for your home, then you should consider getting a conical roof installed. This type of roof consists of four individual layers that look similar to a cone or a pyramid. 

Gambrel Roof

One of the most popular types for commercial buildings is the gambrel roof. It was originally developed in medieval times, and it has been growing in popularity ever since then. The reason why so many people like this type of roof is because it offers plenty of space.

In Conclusion

Roofs come in many styles, each with its own benefits and aesthetic. Choosing the right style for your home requires careful consideration and a little research to make sure you get what will work best for you.