Types of Roofs in Building Construction: Complete Guide by Stonedge Construction

A roof is the highest component of a building that serves as a structural covering to protect the structure from the elements (i,e from rain, sun, wind, etc). Roofs are built in the same way as upper floors in terms of structure, albeit the shape of their upper surfaces may differ. Roofs have been built in a range of shapes and sizes, including flat, pitched, vaulted, domed, and combinations, depending on technical, economic, and aesthetic concerns.In building construction, a roof is the uppermost part of a structure that serves as a protective covering. It shields the building and its occupants from the elements like rain, snow, sun, and wind. Beyond weather protection, roofs also play a role in the building’s overall aesthetics, insulation, and even structural integrity.

The roof is also, arguably, what can boost your home’s value the most–so a quality, well-maintained roof is essential. However, there are many different types of roof materials on the market, so knowing what to choose can be hard.

Here are some common types of home roof materials, and the good and bad about each:

Solar tile roofing is a newer roofing option that is eye-catching. Solar tiles can help save money on the electricity bill, since they absorb solar energy that can be converted into power. With enough solar panels, you can effectively reduce your energy bill to zero, and even make money if your area has an energy program where they buy back excess energy that’s been generated by homeowners with renewable energy systems.

Metal roofing comes in many different forms, like metal shakes and shingles, standing seam metal roofing, and stone coated steel. All are popular options due to their ability to take a beating, keep moisture away, and provide superior UV protection

Clay tiles are another natural roofing option, that are made from earthen clay and molded and fired for durability. It is a great option for homes in hot climates, which makes them popular in southern coastal and desert regions. They also absorb less moisture, which means they require less maintenance.

Wooden shakes and shingles are traditional roofing materials that can add a rustic look to a home. They are made from cedar, redwood, or other types of wood and are environmentally friendly. Wooden roofs require regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay and can be expensive to install.

Green roofs, or living roofs, are essentially small gardens in the form of a roof. They are excellent in managing water runoff, insulating a home, and putting clean oxygen back into the air. They are excellent heat shields, which makes them perfect for hotter areas that could use some extra help managing the indoor temperature.

Composite shingles combine various materials to provide a cost-effective and durable roofing option. They often mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood or slate.

1. Gable Roof

A gable roof is what you probably picture when thinking about traditional sheds. It has two sloping sides meeting at a central ridge, forming that classic triangular shape. This design isn’t just for looks; it’s incredibly functional too. Gable roofs offer excellent water runoff which makes them perfect for areas with heavy rain or snowfalls. Plus, they provide extra headroom inside the shed—great if you’re storing tall items or just need more vertical space.

2.Hip roof

Hip roofs are also a common type of roof shape in residential and commercial construction. They have four sloping sides that meet at the ridge, forming a pyramid-like shape. Hip roofs are more stable than gable roofs in high winds and provide better protection against hurricanes. They also provide more shade and ventilation and are suitable for areas with hot climates. However, hip roofs are more complex to construct than gable roofs, and the additional seams can make them more prone to leaks.

3.Mansard Roof

Mansard roofs are a type of old roof structure shaped almost like a trapezoid, with four pitched sides joining at a flat rectangular top. Due to the design, the attic of a building with a mansard roof is actually big enough to live in.

Unfortunately, the style also means rain can pool on the roof’s surface and snow won’t slide off, leading to cracks and leaks over time.

4. Gambrel roof

Gambrel roof styles are symmetrical two-sided panels with slopes on each side. Their design takes in the advantages of sloped roof angles while lengthening headspace inside a building’s upper level while diminishing what would otherwise be a tall roof.

5. Flat roof

This type of roof has a slope of less than 10 degrees and is either horizontal or nearly horizontal. Even a completely horizontal roof must have a slight incline at the top to allow rainfall to drain quickly. The flat roof can be built using flagstone, R.S.J., and flagstones, reinforced cement concrete, reinforced brickwork, jack arch roof, or precast cement concrete modules in the same way as the upper level. The flat roof, on the other hand, differs from the upper floor mainly in terms of the top finish, which is known as terracing, which protects it from rain, snow, heat, and other elements.

6. Butterfly roof

A butterfly roof has a distinctive V-shape with two slopes that slope inward to a central valley. This modern design is often used in contemporary residential homes and allows for effective rainwater drainage. While it can be less suitable in snowy climates, its striking aesthetics and potential for solar panel installation make it a popular choice.

6. Shed Roof

The Shed Roof, also known as a single-pitch roof, is characterized by a single sloping surface, which allows for a simple and modern design. This type of roof is often used for home extensions, workshops, or small buildings where simplicity and cost efficiency are priorities. Due to its angle, the Shed Roof allows for quick water drainage and is ideal for modern homes that seek a minimalist look. However, it does not offer much attic storage space and may have a too simple aesthetic for some homeowners who might prefer a more traditional design. Additionally, the lack of multiple slopes can limit the architectural appeal for some homes.

7. Curved roof

 A curved roof is a roofing style featuring a convex or concave curvature, offering aesthetic appeal and potentially increased interior space, often constructed with modern materials like metal sheets due to their pliability and ease of installation, though various other materials can also be used.

8. Combination roof

 Some types of roofs are combinations between multiple different roof styles. This roof, for instance, is a combo roof featuring design aspects from the bonnet roof and the open gable roof. A normal bonnet roof would have 4 sloping walls on the upper half, over a lower half with gentle slopes that ease outward over the sides of the home.

This roof features just 2 sloping sides on the upper half, with open ends on the other 2 sides, just like an open gable roof would have.

The diverse types of roofs, classic gable, hip roofs, and modern butterfly and curved designs all offer a wide spectrum of options tailored to different climates, budgets, and architectural styles. Each roof type carries its unique advantages and considerations, influencing durability, aesthetics, and functionality.

Stonedge Construction Pvt. Ltd. brings trusted expertise in civil works, interiors, electricals, flooring, and more — all across Assam. Whether it’s your dream home or a commercial space, we’re here to make it happen with quality, care, and professionalism.

👉  Click here to Contact Us