The roof is an important aspect of a building or a house. We cannot deny the importance of a strong and sturdy roof that is able to protect the whole building.

Types of Roofs

A roof plays an essential role in the overall appearance of a house or building. Moreover, it works as a protector to protect the building from extreme climates, etc. That is why if you are going to replace or make a new roof of your house, then you must have to familiarize yourself with different roof types first. Not every roof type is suitable for every type of building.

There are different types according to climate, budget, and building designs, etc. Out of many different types; the selection of the one that fits all your requirements is an important task that needs knowledge and information to make the right decision. However, choosing the right type is not an easy task if you are totally black or have no knowledge about them.

In this article, we have collected information about different types so that you can get an idea about which type will be more suitable for your house from an aesthetic and performance point of view.

Let us have a look at different roof types with the pros and cons of each type in detail.

1.     Gabled

In this type, there are two sloped sides that meet at one point in the center which is known as gable or ridge. This forms the shape of a triangle. This type is very common and has the simplest design. Pros and Cons are listed below.

·         Pros

●      Allows sufficient light and ventilation in the attic.

●      Prevents heat buildup.

●      Suitable for residential buildings due to affordable cost.

●      Prevent damage from moisture.

●      Versatile and can be made in different materials.

·         Cons

●      Not suitable for areas with windy climates or hurricanes.

●      Extreme rainfall can cause the roof to fall.

●      Structural damage is very common in this type.

 

2.     Gambrel

This type is very similar to the gable style but the difference is that the gambrel style has two more symmetric slopes on both sides. This means it has a total of four sloped sides. This style is also known as the Dutch roof or barn roof.

·         Pros

●      Provides additional storage or living space in the attic.

●      Helps to prevent standing water after rain or snow after snowfall.

●      Reduces the risk of water damage.

·         Cons

●      Difficult access for cleaning or repair purposes.

●      The shallow slope may not be able to bear the weight of heavy snowfall.

●      Not suitable for areas with hurricanes.

 

3.     Hip

In this style, there are four sloping sides. All four sides meet at a peak or ridge known as a hip. The overall structure looks like the shape of a square. Homes or buildings having a colonial architectural style prefer this type of roof design.

·         Pros

●      They are very stable.

●      The four-sloped design reduces the risk of structural damage.

●      Versatile and can be made with different materials.

●      Prevents water damage and seepage, etc.

·         Cons

●      Design and construction of this style are difficult and expensive.

●      Repair and maintenance are also difficult and challenging.

●       Installation is complex and this adds to the cost as well.

 

4.     Skillion

This comprises a single slope surface that is flat and connects one wall of the building with the other. It is mostly used in buildings having modern architecture. It is a rather simpler design and it is mostly used in buildings with small structures for example, sheds, garages, annexes, etc.

·         Pros

●      They are simpler in design.

●      Minimum structure support needed due to straight design.

●      It is cost-effective.

●      Can be made with different materials thus making it an adaptable option.

·         Cons

●      More prone to leaks.

●      Water damage risks are higher as compared to other styles.

●      Maintenance and repair are difficult and complex tasks.

●      Not recommended for areas with heavy snowfall or rainfall.

 

5.     A-Frame

This is also known as the triangular-style roof. It has two ends with a steep slope. The sloping sides meet at the ridge of the roof, making a triangular shape. The shape looks like the English alphabet A, which is why this style is also known as A-frame. Most homes or buildings prefer this style whose structural design is modern.

·         Pros

●      This style is suitable for all weather climates, for example, rain, snow, storms, etc.

●      Prevents water damage as the sloped sides slip down the water or snow, etc.

·         Cons

●      The sloped sides are difficult to reach for cleaning.

●      The accessibility issue makes the maintenance complex.

●      The interior angles become awkward due to the outer sloped sides.

 

6.     Bonnet

It is a type of hip roof but the difference is that it has four sides with a slight slope at the bottom. The slope is extended past the outside walls of the building. This makes a shade-like structure which is known as a bonnet. They are mostly made in gazebos, pool houses, etc.

·         Pros

●      The bonnet shape provides shade for the building or home from all sides.

●      It is resistant to wind due to the hipped structure.

●      Provides space for the gutter system.

·         Cons

●      Expensive to construct this style.

●      There is a great chance of leakage due to more seams used in this style.

●      Additional structural support is needed that adds extra cost to the total budget.

 

Conclusion

Roofs no doubt play a crucial role in any building’s overall structure. That is why it is important that you should choose the roof style and type carefully. Every roof style has an exclusive design, shape, attributes, quality, material, and other distinctive features.

The roof style should be chosen after discussing with a roofer in Norwich around you, according to the architectural design of the building structure, the climate of the area, desired roof space, etc. Also, consider the maintenance requirements before choosing the style.

Guest Contributor: Amber Julie