Did you even know there are so many types of roofs? Which one do you have?
Even the most dedicated HGTV binger may not know that there are more than a dozen types of roofs, and while each will keep you dry, they all bring different pros and cons to the table. Whether you dream of building your own home and want to know which roof will work for you or you want to brush up on your house knowledge, we have all the information you need!
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Types of Roofs: The Bonnet
This style is seen in older homes, especially in the south. The roof slopes down sharply, then at less of an angle. This design usually allows space for an attic or vaulted ceilings, and the lower roof provides a great covering for porches. The sloped roofs can also provide protection from water damage by allowing water to easily runoff. However, this unique, sloped design can be more costly to construct, and water may pool in some areas, which can lead to leaks or ice dams if not properly insulated.
Types of Roofs: The Curve
This style is one of the most unique roof styles and boasts versatility in the degree of the curve. The roof can be designed to cover the entire home in one piece or can utilize multiple curved sections, creating a unique and aesthetically pleasing design for homeowners. The unique style does come with a larger price tag, while not providing benefits beyond the unique design.
Types of Roofs: The Flat
While flat roofs are most commonly seen in commercial buildings, they can also be constructed on residential homes. The flat roof can be utilized for extra living space as a rooftop garden or patio, or it can provide out of sight storage for heating and cooling units. This style of roof is more susceptible to water damage, and while it is less expensive to construct, it can require costly maintenance throughout its life.
Types of Roofs: The Gable
Gable roofs are one of the most common and easily recognized roof designs. Their traditional design allows for simple water and snow shedding, as well as room for a spacious attic or vaulted ceilings, and more ventilation. While this design can be problematic in areas with high winds or hurricanes, it is an affordable and reliable option for most areas.
Types of Roofs: The Gambrel
More commonly known as a barn roof, this design can accommodate additional living space of storage space, and during construction, it is an easy design to frame due to the simplistic design, which also boasts a much lower cost to construct. The simplistic design can be problematic in areas with heavy snowfall, and annual inspection is recommended.
Types of Roofs: The Hip
Hip roofs have slopes on four sides that meet and form a ridge. Hip roofs are more stable and durable than many other roof designs, and they are well suited for homes in snowy and windy areas. This roof type is more expensive than the comparable gable roof, and without proper installation, leaks can develop in the seams of the roof.
Types of Roofs: The Jerkinhead
Jerkinhead roofs combine elements of the gable and hip style roofs. This style is sturdier than a standard gable roof, and it is more resistant to wind-related damage. It is an additional roof style that has the added benefit of extra living space, but this benefit comes at the cost of more expensive construction.
Types of Roofs: The Mansard
A mansard roof is also known as a “French roof” because of the four-sided slope design, though the degree of the slope can vary. This sloped design can allow for a large amount of extra living space or attic space. The sloped design is more costly upfront, but building a home with a mansard roof can save on costs if homeowners want to expand their house down the line. Additionally, mansard roofs are not recommended for areas that receive heavy snowfall.
Types of Roofs: The Pyramid
This type of roof is most commonly seen on cabins and bungalows, but it can be used in residential construction. Pyramid roofs are strong, and extremely wind-resistant, making them ideal for areas with high winds and hurricanes. While pyramid roofs are more costly to build, they can reduce energy costs slightly.
Types of Roofs: The Saltbox
This roof style incorporates two sloping sides that are unequal in length. The large slopes allow for easy water runoff, making this design ideal for areas that receive excessive rainfall. The saltbox also allows for additional living space, but as with many others, it is more expensive to construct than standard designs.
Types of Roofs: The Sawtooth
Sawtooth roofs involve two or more roof sections that slope, and they alternate with flat roof sections. Windows can be placed in the flat portions of the roof, allowing for more natural light in the home. The complex design is more expensive than other roofs and requires more maintenance than most styles.
And just for fun….There is so much going on here….
The Wrap Up
No matter what type of roof you have (or want) we can help you. If you want to transform your current roof into a new design, or a simple upgrade or repair your current one, we provide free estimates. Our drones, GoPro cameras, and other technology allow us to provide details and accurate account of the condition of your roof and the scope of your project.
About Weather Vane Roofing
We provide roofing, siding, insulation, windows, and gutters. Making your house beautiful and efficient is our main goal. We use the latest in technology and products to provide eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions for your home and business. With locations in Lansing, Owosso, and Brighton/Howell we are Mid-Michigan’s roofing experts. Let us transform your house into a home.
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