10 popular roofing styles — Which is the best for you?

Provided by Networx.com

Besides performing the essential function of protecting human beings from sun, rain, hail, and snow, roofs come in various shapes that add architectural interest to the buildings they cover. Factors to consider when choosing a roof are local climate, cost to build and maintain, and the style of your home as a whole. If you are actively planning to build a house -- or just daydreaming about your future residence -- it's fascinating to learn about different roofing styles and decide which one you like best.

1. Flat

A flat roof is the simplest kind to build. It takes the least amount of roofing material but needs to be carefully waterproofed, because it doesn't drain well. If you'd like to relax on a glamorous terrace or plant an eco-friendly urban garden atop your roof, a flat design could be for you.

2. Shed (skillion)

A shed roof consists of a single plane, which is slanted, high on one side, low on the other. This is an improvement on the flat roof due to better drainage. Although it will leave you with odd-shaped rooms underneath, adventurous souls may plan this deliberately as a unique architectural feature.

3. Gable (pitched)

A gable roof has two sides that slope down from a central ridge. Easy to build and suitable for whatever climate you may live in, it can be vented and doesn't collect precipitation or debris like fallen leaves. The gable roof allows space for an attic, great for insulation purposes; you'll find it less complicated to insulate the floor of an unheated attic space (which can be used for storage of non-cold sensitive items) than the roof itself.

4. Hipped

A hipped roof has two long sides and two shorter ones slanting down from a ridge in the middle. The eaves can overhang your property, shading overly sunny windows and shielding the entrance, as well as protecting siding from rain. With its high-quality wind resistance, the hipped roof is ideal for warm climates where there a frequent rainstorms. It's an excellent Miami roofing choice, for example.

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10 popular roofing styles -- Which is the best for you?