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Top 7 Best Roof Design Types to Consider

A roof not only shelters you from natural elements but also determines the style and overall look of your house or building. There are many roofing designs to choose from and each type has its benefits and downsides. The decision you make about your roofing style tells a lot about your personality so it is important to ensure it matches your personal needs. Some factors that may affect your choice of roof design include climate, location, and weather conditions in your area. This article looks at the top seven best roof design types to consider whether you are building a new home or doing a major renovation.

  1. Pyramid

As the name suggests, pyramid roofs look like pyramids. They are made up of four equal sides that connect to a single point at the top.

A pyramid roof design does not have vertical sides and works great for smaller buildings like cabins and bungalows. They are very durable in areas that are prone to high winds and hurricanes. Pyramid roof designs are not commonly seen on homes because they are expensive to build and the costs of installation may vary depending on your region.

  1. Butterfly

The butterfly roof style is common in very modern designs. Its name is derived from its V-shape that looks like wings in flight. A butterfly roof allows for larger windows that promote good air circulation within the building. The complexity of the butterfly roof design demands a large budget for installation. This roof type may require more maintenance compared to other roofs especially if you live in an area that experiences heavy rainfall and snow.

  1. Gable

Gable is one of the most popular types of roof designs that comes in mind when you think of constructing a home. It can easily be identified by its classic triangle shape and can be referred to as pitched or peaked roofs. Gable roofs are common because they are cost-effective and easy to install. Roofers can only work on two flat-lying surfaces since gable roofs have two pitched areas that connect in the middle.

  1. Flat

Flat roofs are not ‘completely’ flat but tend to give an appearance that they are because of their low-sloped shape. They have a slight pitch that allows for water run-off or drainage. This roof design is common in commercial buildings, apartments, and modern homes. Some of the good material choices for such a design include asphalt coatings and rubber membranes. However, traditional shingles may not be a good option here because of the low-sloped shape.

  1. Mansard

The Mansard roof design is a four-sided roof with two slopes on each side that extend to the top to form a low pitch. The sides of a mansard roof can be curved or flat depending on the style and the lower slope is usually steeper than the upper. If you are looking for something stylish that has extra living space at the top then mansard roofs can be the best option for you. They work great for snowy climates due to the angles of the slopes and a flat top.

  1. Hipped

Hipped roof designs are made up of four sloped sides; two with triangle shapes and the other two with trapezoid shapes. These features make then hipped roof sturdier and more dynamic. Although you may expect several benefits from having this design, it is more difficult to construct due to the four hip rafters that brace the roof. This makes it expensive than a simple Gable roof. Shingles and tiles are some of the materials that can be used on a hipped roof

  1. Gambrel

Gambrel roofs are designed with two different slopes making them almost similar to mansard roofs. However, the upper slope of a gambrel roof is much lower and the lower sides have a very steep slope. It is easier to frame and offers more living space. If you are looking for a farmhouse roof design that is affordable and the construction is quite simple, then a gambrel may work just fine. It is not ideal for people who live in very windy or snowy areas.

Different rood designs come with their pros and cons so it is important to choose a type that works best for your area and suits your preferences. It is also important to consider your needs after narrowing down your choices. Some roof styles offer extra living space while others can only be used for storage. Whatever choice you make, do not skimp on the quality of materials and have it installed by a professional to guarantee its longevity.