When it comes to selecting roofing options, understanding the different roof types for houses, commercial and industrial buildings is very important. Each type offers unique benefits, aesthetics, and functionality tailored to specific needs.
Whether you’re looking for durability, energy efficiency, or visual appeal, there’s a roof type that will meet your requirements. Lets take a closer look at the options you can choose from when undergoing a roof replacement.
How many different roof types are there?
With all the different types of roof styles and names, along with the different roof shapes and different types of roofing material available, it’s nearly impossible to pinpoint an exact number. Each combination of materials and roof designs creates unique possibilities for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Below, we’ll explore a list of commonly used materials, as well as the various styles and names associated with roofs. Whether you’re considering a classic gable roof or a modern flat roof, the choices are abundant and tailored to suit different needs.
What are the different types of roofs?
With different types of roofs on houses, industrial and commercial buildings each style serves a unique purpose and aesthetic. By exploring various roof covering types, homeowners and builders can make informed choices that enhance both functionality and curb appeal.
Below, we will offer the different types of roofs with pictures so that choosing the best option can be done!
Gambrel Roof
A gambrel roof features two distinct slopes on each side, resembling a barn roof. This design is often seen in agricultural buildings and some residential homes. It provides additional attic space, making it ideal for storage or living areas. Gambrel roofs are effective in regions with moderate rainfall and offer a rustic charm.
Hip Roof
A hip roof has slopes on all four sides, creating a sturdy and symmetrical design. It is suitable for both residential and commercial buildings, providing excellent stability in windy areas. Hip roofs perform well in various climates, allowing for effective drainage. This traditional style has been popular for centuries and remains a favorite in modern architecture.
Mansard Roof
A mansard roof features four sloping sides, with two slopes on each side—one steep and one gentle. This design is often associated with French architecture and is great for maximizing living space in attics. Mansard roofs work well in diverse climates and add elegance to residential homes while blending classic and modern aesthetics.
Flat Roof
A flat roof has a minimal pitch, resulting in a level surface. Commonly used in commercial buildings, this design is also gaining popularity in residential architecture for its functionality. Flat roofs are ideal for urban settings, allowing for additional outdoor space. However, they require careful drainage management to prevent water pooling and specific flat roof materials making them suitable for milder climates.
Gable Roof
A gable roof consists of two sloping sides that meet at a peak, creating a triangular shape. This design is prevalent in residential homes and effectively sheds water and snow. Gable roofs are one of the oldest roof styles, appreciated for their simplicity and effectiveness in various weather conditions.
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.
Dutch Gable Roof
A Dutch gable roof combines features of gable and hip roofs, offering a gable at the top of a hip structure. This design provides added aesthetic appeal and can increase living space in the attic. Dutch gable roofs are versatile and suitable for various climates, combining the benefits of both roof styles.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing can come in various styles and is known for its durability and longevity. It is suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Metal roofs are ideal for areas with heavy precipitation and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They are a modern choice that offers energy efficiency and low maintenance.
Curved Roof
A curved roof features a smooth, continuous curve and is often used in modern architecture for residential and commercial buildings. This design allows for unique aesthetic appeal and can enhance natural light within the structure. Curved roofs are effective in shedding water and snow but may require special considerations for insulation.
Dormer Roof
A dormer roof involves a structural extension from the main roof, typically containing a window. This design is often used to create additional living space or light in attics. Dormer roofs can be integrated into various styles, including gable and hip roofs, and are suitable for a range of climates.
Shed Roof
A shed roof, or skillion roof, consists of a single sloping surface. This modern design is popular for homes, studios, and commercial buildings. Shed roofs excel in regions with heavy rainfall due to their ability to facilitate quick drainage and are increasingly favored for their simplicity and contemporary look.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are a traditional roofing material known for their durability and classic appearance. They are commonly used in warmer climates as they are excellent for heat resistance. Clay tiles can be found on residential homes and commercial buildings and add a timeless aesthetic to any structure.
Saltbox Roof
A saltbox roof is characterized by its asymmetrical design, with one side being longer than the other. This traditional style is commonly found in colonial architecture and is well-suited for areas with heavy snowfall, as the slope helps shed snow effectively. Saltbox roofs provide a unique charm and are functional in various climates.
Shingles
Shingles are one of the most common roofing materials and can be made from asphalt, wood, or composite materials. They are versatile and suitable for various roof styles. Shingles are popular in residential homes due to their affordability and ease of installation, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.
Skillion Roof
A skillion roof features a single, sloping surface that is ideal for modern architecture. This design is often used for residential homes and commercial buildings, allowing for unique aesthetics and functionality. Skillion roofs are particularly effective in urban settings and can enhance natural light in the space.
Slate Roof
A slate roof is composed of natural stone tiles known for their beauty and durability. This traditional roofing material is commonly used in high-end residential homes and historical buildings. Slate roofs perform well in various climates, providing excellent weather resistance and a timeless aesthetic, although they may require additional structural support.
Bonnet Roof
A bonnet roof has two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being less steep than the upper. This design is beneficial for residential homes, providing additional covered outdoor space such as porches. Bonnet roofs are suitable for various climates and add a charming, traditional touch to homes.
Pyramid Roof
A pyramid roof features four triangular sides that meet at a single peak. This design is commonly used for smaller structures, such as gazebos or pavilions, and can also be found on some residential homes. Pyramid roofs are effective in areas with heavy rainfall, allowing for good drainage and a unique aesthetic.
Solar Tiles
Solar tiles are an innovative roofing option that integrates solar energy generation into the roof itself. Suitable for residential and commercial buildings, solar tiles provide a modern solution for energy efficiency. This design can work in various climates, as they can harness sunlight to power the building, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
Green Roofing
Green roofing involves the installation of vegetation on the roof surface, providing numerous environmental benefits. This design is ideal for urban settings, offering insulation and reducing stormwater runoff. Green roofs can be incorporated into residential and commercial buildings, contributing to energy efficiency and promoting biodiversity.
Attic Truss Construction
Attic truss construction is a structural design that utilizes trusses to create an open space in the roof area. This design is often used in residential buildings to maximize attic space, allowing for additional storage or living areas. Attic truss roofs are suitable for various climates and provide flexibility in interior design.
Bell Roof
A bell roof features a rounded shape, resembling an upside-down bell. This design is typically used in churches and historical buildings, offering a unique architectural style. Bell roofs are suitable for various climates, providing excellent water drainage and an iconic appearance.
Frame Roof
A frame roof consists of a wooden framework covered with roofing material. This design is versatile and commonly used in residential homes. Frame roofs are suitable for various climates and can accommodate a range of roof covering types, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Jerkinhead Roof
A jerkinhead roof features a combination of gable and hip roof styles, with a shortened gable that slopes downward. This design is effective in regions with heavy winds, providing additional stability and a unique aesthetic. Jerkinhead roofs are versatile and can be used in various types of buildings, adding character to residential architecture.
Different types of roof materials with pictures
What are roofs made out of and what are the different types of roofing systems available? These are great questions to ask when speaking to a roofing contractor and planning roof design. Each type has its unique strengths, making it suitable for different building types, climates, and aesthetic preferences.
Below are several popular roofing materials, their applications, and how well they work in specific climates.
Shingles
Shingles come in various forms, including asphalt shingles, architectural shingles, and slate shingles. These roof shingles types are a versatile roofing option commonly used in residential homes. Shingles can adapt to various climates, though they require regular maintenance in areas with extreme weather. Asphalt shingles are a classic choice, while slate shingles offer a more high-end, durable option.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials in residential homes due to their affordability and ease of installation. These shingles work well in a variety of climates, particularly in regions with moderate weather conditions. Asphalt shingles offer good water resistance but may have a shorter lifespan in areas with extreme heat or heavy snow.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing types, including standing seam metal roofing, are highly durable and work well for both residential and commercial buildings. This material is excellent in regions with heavy snowfall or high winds due to its strength and ability to shed snow quickly. Metal roofing is a newer option gaining popularity for its energy efficiency and long lifespan, especially for commercial roofing systems.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are often seen in warmer climates, particularly in Mediterranean or Spanish-style homes. This material is great for reflecting sunlight and keeping homes cool, making it perfect for hot, dry areas. Clay tiles are also durable but can be heavy, requiring a sturdy roof frame. They are more traditional but remain popular for their distinctive look.
Silicone Roof Coatings
Silicone roof coatings, the best roof coating for flat roof types, provide long-lasting protection, particularly in areas prone to ponding water. This type of coating is often used on flat or low-slope roofs, making it ideal for commercial and industrial buildings.
It forms a seamless, waterproof barrier that withstands harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain and UV exposure. Silicone coatings are a modern roofing solution and are highly effective in climates with frequent rainfall or high humidity, extending the life of a roof while reducing maintenance costs.
Concrete
Concrete roofing tiles are a more affordable alternative to clay tiles and offer excellent durability. They are suitable for both residential and commercial applications, especially in warmer climates. Like clay, concrete is a heavier material, so it requires proper structural support but offers great longevity and fire resistance.
Green Roofing
Green roofing involves the use of living plants on a rooftop. This environmentally friendly system is ideal for urban settings, both for homes and commercial buildings. Green roofs provide excellent insulation and reduce water runoff, making them perfect for areas with fluctuating temperatures or heavy rainfall. This is a modern, sustainable option.
Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is known for its beauty and longevity, often used in high-end residential homes or historical buildings. Known as the longest lasting roof material, Slate is great in wet climates because it’s naturally waterproof and highly durable. However, it’s a heavy material that requires additional structural support, making it more suitable for luxury homes.
Solar Tiles
Solar tiles are an innovative solution for eco-conscious homeowners or businesses. They blend seamlessly into the roof while generating solar energy. Solar tiles are suitable for sunny climates and can significantly reduce energy costs. This is a cutting-edge system designed for modern sustainability.
Wood Shingles & Cedar Shake
Wood shingles, including cedar shake, offer a natural, rustic look to residential homes. While they can last long in mild climates, they are less suited to areas with high humidity or heavy rainfall due to the potential for rot. Cedar shake roofs are more traditional but are still used today for their aesthetic appeal and insulation properties.
Rolled Roofing
Rolled roofing is commonly used for low-slope commercial buildings or sheds. It is a budget-friendly material that offers quick installation but is less durable than other types of roofing. This material is best in mild climates with less severe weather and is considered a more temporary solution.
BUR Roofing (Built-Up Roofing)
BUR roofing is a multi-layered system made of tar and gravel. This type is often used for flat or low-slope commercial roofs due to its durability and weather resistance. BUR is excellent for areas with extreme weather, as it can provide strong insulation and protection against water damage.
Polycarbonate Roofing
Polycarbonate is a lightweight, durable material often used in commercial or industrial buildings. It is highly resistant to weathering and provides excellent insulation, making it ideal for extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold. Polycarbonate is a more modern material, offering both durability and energy efficiency.
Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are a premium option for roofing, offering both aesthetic appeal and durability. Suitable for both residential homes and high-end commercial buildings, slate shingles are best used in areas with variable weather, as they are naturally resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing is an advanced type of metal roofing known for its sleek appearance and superior durability. It is often used in both residential and commercial settings, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions like heavy snow or hurricanes. This modern system is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available.
Wood Roofing
Wood roofing provides a classic, natural look and is typically used in residential homes. It can be less suitable in areas with high humidity, but it’s great for homes in temperate climates. Wood roofing is an older material, but modern treatments have made it more resistant to weather and pests.
Cedar Shake
Cedar shake roofing adds a rustic charm to homes and is especially popular in forested or rural areas. It works well in drier climates due to its natural insulation properties but may not last as long in wetter areas without proper maintenance. This is an older roofing system, but still favored for its aesthetic and durability when properly maintained.
Tile Roofing
Tile roofing includes both clay and concrete tiles and is often used in Mediterranean-style architecture. It’s a durable and fire-resistant option for residential and commercial buildings, particularly in hot climates. Tile roofs are heavier and require strong support but offer excellent longevity.
Tab Shingles
Tab shingles are a basic type of asphalt shingle used in residential roofing. They are cost-effective and easy to install, making them a good option for homeowners on a budget. Tab shingles are best suited for moderate climates where extreme weather is less of a concern.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, are a more durable and aesthetically pleasing version of standard asphalt shingles. They are designed to last longer and provide more texture, making them popular for residential homes. These shingles are relatively new and suitable for various weather conditions.
Asphalt
Asphalt is the most commonly used material in residential roofing, particularly for shingles. It is affordable, easy to install, and works well in a variety of climates. Asphalt roofing systems are versatile and offer decent durability for the price, making them a classic choice for homeowners.
Key takeaways about the different kinds of roofs
Knowing more about the various roof types and parts of a roof is essential for making the right choice for your property. Each type serves specific purposes, from aesthetics to durability, and selecting the right materials can enhance energy efficiency and lifespan.
Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your chosen roof. Consulting with experienced roofing Brooklyn contractors can provide valuable insights tailored to your needs. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that will protect your investment for years to come.
