Often overlooked as a major architectural feature for any structure, the style of roof types and materials you add to your home can make all the difference, both visually and structurally. The right roof style can also have a dramatic impact on property value. So whether you're looking for new construction inspiration or want to update your existing roof, it's essential to choose a roof type that will add value to your home and enhance its overall aesthetic.
Roof Types That Never Feel Outdated
To make the selection process easier for you, we asked our renovation and construction experts to weigh in on the best roof styles that are sure to never feel outdated. From a hip roof to a gable roof, here are all of the essential options broken down by style, including affordable roofing ideas for you to consider. Keep in mind that there is a broad range of roof types when it comes to considering the right roof for your home, and not every style is ideal for every climate or property.
When narrowing down your options, remember that roof shapes vary from region to region for a reason. The main factors that influence the shape of a roof are your budget, the climate, and the materials available to meet your budget.
Skillion And Lean-To
Skillion and lean-to roof types feature dramatic angular lines and intriguing crisscrossing angles. These roofs often have no ridge on the roofline, resulting in walls of varying heights within a structure. Skillion roofs have a timelessly modern and bold look, and their steep pitch allows water to run off easily. They are quick, affordable, and easy to construct, with materials like metal lending a sleek and minimal design.
Open Gable
The open gable roof is a classic and versatile option that features two sloped sides meeting along a central ridge. This roof style is commonly associated with the traditional image of a house and is composed of simplified triangular panels. It is a popular choice due to its simplicity and timeless appeal.
Box Gable
Similar to a standard gable roof, the box gable roof type adds a triangular extension at each end of the structure. This design highlights the triangular section of the roof style, giving it a more pronounced and unique look.
Dormer
The dormer roof type features a roofed structure with a window that extends vertically beyond the plane of a pitched roof. Dormers are commonly used to increase usable space in a lofted area while adding additional windows along the roof plane.
Hip
Hip roof styles are shaped like an abbreviated pyramid, with every side sloping downward. They offer a more subtle angle compared to other roof types and feature no gables or other vertical sides that extend to the roof.
Hip And Valley
Hip and valley roof types work best when a building needs a combination of roof types and angles to facilitate its architectural elements. This style combines a classic hip roof with intersecting valleys, creating a more visually dynamic effect.
Gambrel
Gambrel roof styles are symmetrical two-sided panels with slopes on each side. Their design takes advantage of sloped roof angles while maximizing headspace inside a building's upper level.
Mansard
Mansard roofs are popular for centuries throughout Europe. They are a four-sided take on a gambrel roof with two slopes on each of its sides, with the lower slope punctuated by dormer windows housed at a steeper angle than the upper slope.
Butterfly
Butterfly roof designs feature a V shape and are characterized by an inversion of a standard roof. The two roof angles slope down from opposing edges, meeting at a valley near the middle. The unique shape of this roof style adds a modern and striking touch to any structure.
Intersecting/Overlaid Hip
Intersecting roof types combine a gable and hip silhouette to create a more intricate and visually impressive effect. This roof style works best for grander homes that require a dynamic visual appeal.
Dutch Gable
Dutch gable roof styles add a petite gable at the top of a hipped roof, evoking a more idyllic and pastoral feel. This roof type is perfect for those looking to create a charming and traditional look for their home.
Jerkinhead
Jerkinhead roofs are a take on a gable roof, where the peaks are abbreviated to mimic a hip roof. This design streamlines the peak of a standard gable roof, reducing the risk of potential wind damage.
Flat
Flat roofs are an ancient style often used in arid climates. They offer easy access to the roof space and are an affordable roofing option. Though they have a low slope, proper irrigation systems are required to prevent possible flooding.
Cross Hipped
Cross hipped roof designs are an enduringly popular variation of the hip roof. They often have an 'L' shape and feature two intersecting hip sections that run perpendicular to each other.
M Shaped
M shaped roofs have one of the most striking silhouettes among modern roof types. They give off the impression of a bold zig-zag horizon, making even the simplest buildings more statement-making.
Saltbox
Saltbox home roofing is a traditional style with a long, pitched point that slopes down towards the back. It often features one story in the back and two stories in the front due to its slanted styling. Saltbox roofs are commonly found in New England and add a unique charm to wooden frame houses.
Shed
Lifted from barn roof styles, shed roofs have only one sloping plane and are often not attached to another roof surface. This design keeps the look simple yet effective and works well for smaller structures.
Combination
Combination roof types offer the best possible functions for any building. They use two or more different roof styles to create a unique appeal and a striking juxtaposition of aesthetics. However, be cautious of creating unwarranted valleys that can lead to leaks, and ensure that the combination of styles complements your overall design.
A-Frame
A classic A-frame home takes its shape from idyllic barn roof styles and features steeply-angled sides that meet at the top to form the shape of the letter A. A-frame roofs are popular for their unique and eye-catching appearance.
Bonnet
Bonnet roofs have a double slope on all four sides, with the lower slope less steep than the upper slope. This style often extends over patios and porches, adding a touch of elegance and providing shade.
Gable And Valley
Gable and valley roof types allow for full use of the arched space inside and are a classic option for homes of any size. This style combines inward slopes of a gable roof on two sides with a triangle-shaped wall on the other two sides.
Pitched
Pitched roof types slope downwards, often in two parts angled from a central ridge or in one part from end to end. The slope of the roof, known as the pitch, affects the overall aesthetic and performance of the roof.
Pyramid
Pyramid roof types keep all sides sloping down towards the walls. Depending on the size of the building, they may have three or more rectangular faces, creating a unique and visually appealing shape.
Sloping Flat
Sloping flat roofs are one of the most dramatic and minimal roof types. They feature a flat angled plain for a stunning effect, adding a contemporary touch to any building.
Selecting the Right Roofing Material
Now that we've gone over what makes each roof style unique, it's time to consider the best materials for your home. When choosing roofing materials, there are several important factors to consider:
- Specialized installation: Evaluate the installation process required for each material.
- Colors and styles: Ensure that the available options complement your home's overall design.
- Local fire codes: Check if the material meets the fire codes in your area.
- Installation and maintenance techniques: Consider the special requirements for each material.
- Performance in specific weather conditions: Account for how each material will perform in your climate.
- Cost, lifespan, and warranty: Compare the cost, durability, and warranty of each roofing material.
Roofing Materials to Consider
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable roofing material used in the United States. They are cost-effective, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors. While not as long-lasting as other materials, asphalt shingles offer a wide range of options at an affordable price.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles add texture and a touch of romance to any home. Clay tiles are durable but heavy, while concrete tiles offer versatility at a lower cost. Both options provide excellent insulation and are long-lasting investments.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is sleek, lightweight, durable, and recyclable. It comes in various materials such as aluminum, copper, stainless steel, and zinc. While it can be more expensive, metal roofing offers long-lasting performance and adds a modern touch to any style of home.
Slate
Slate roofing boasts a distinctive modern elegance and comes in rich shades of black, green, grey, and burgundy. It is a strong, fire-resistant material that can last a lifetime. However, it can be expensive and may require additional framing due to its weight.
Wood Shingles and Shake
Wood shingles and shake provide a rustic and natural look. Wood shake offers a more organic appearance, while wood shingles are cut by machine for a more uniform look. However, wood shingles may require special consideration due to local fire codes and their tendency to mold or rot in wet climates.
Synthetic Roofing
Synthetic roofing products are designed to be strong, easy to maintain, and less expensive than natural roofing materials. They come in various options and work well with almost all architectural styles. However, quality can vary, and some materials can absorb water, leading to mold issues.
Solar Panels
Solar paneled roofing is an innovative solution that combines the benefits of renewable energy with traditional roofing materials. Solar shingles and panels can reduce electric bills and have low maintenance costs. While they can be more expensive and weather-dependent, their cost-effectiveness and environmental advantages make them an appealing choice for many homeowners.
Consider these roofing materials, their pros, cons, house styles, cost, and lifespan when selecting the best option for your home. By choosing the right roof style and material for your needs, you can enhance the beauty, functionality, and value of your property.
