Roofing designs play a crucial role in the beautiful aesthetics, functionality, and overall value of a building. Different roofing designs suit different architectural styles and climatic conditions. Here is a detailed description of various roofing designs, their applications, and the climates they are best suited for.
Table of Contents
Bonnet Roof
The bonnet roof, also known as a kicked-eave or a swept-eave roof, is a type of roof with two slopes. The upper slope is shallower than the lower slope, and both slopes meet at a ridge. Bonnet roofs are commonly used in tropical areas with high rainfall and winds. The design protects against heavy winds and water penetration.
Monticello, Virginia, USA
Installation technique: Traditional hand-framed
Year Built: 1769
Roofing material: Wood shingles
Pros:
- Provides additional protection from the elements by extending over the exterior walls of a building
- Provides shade and ventilation for outdoor living areas underneath
- Offers a unique and stylish design for homes
Cons:
- Complex design can be challenging to install, requiring experienced roofing contractors
- May be more expensive than other roofing styles due to its complex design
- Limited attic space due to its sloped design
Box Gable Roof
The box gable roof is a simple design consisting of two sloping sides with a gable at each end. A gable is a triangular shape portion of the wall between the edges of the sloping roof. The design provides good ventilation and ample space for an attic. The box gable roof is suitable for areas with moderate rainfall and winds.
Winchester Mystery House, California, USA
Installation technique: Wood frame
Year Built: 1886
Roofing material: Redwood shingles
Pros:
- Simple and cost-effective to install
- Provides ample attic space for storage or living space
- Offers a traditional and classic design that can fit in with many architectural styles
Cons:
- May not provide sufficient ventilation if not designed correctly
- Limited natural light in the attic space without the addition of windows or skylights
- Prone to damage from high winds or heavy snow loads due to its flat gable ends
Butterfly Roof
The butterfly roof is a unique design where double slope roof surfaces lead downwards from opposite edges to form a valley in the middle. The design creates a unique appearance, and the valley in the middle can be used to collect water runoff. The butterfly roof is best suited for dry climates with low rainfall.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, USA
Installation technique: Steel frame
Year Built: 1959
Roofing material: Copper
Pros:
- Provides a unique and modern aesthetic design that can make a statement
- Offers opportunities for natural lighting and ventilation through the central valley
- Can be energy-efficient with the use of solar panels or green roof systems
Cons:
- Complex design can be expensive and challenging to install
- Requires regular maintenance to prevent leaks in the central valley
- Limited attic space due to the sloped design
Clerestory Roof
The clerestory roof is a design with a raised section of the roof that has windows or transparent panels. The design allows natural light to enter the building, and the windows can be opened for ventilation. The clerestory roof is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall.
Unity Temple, Illinois, USA
Installation technique: Reinforced concrete
Year Built: 1905
Roofing material: Flat asphalt
Pros:
- Provides ample natural lighting and ventilation in the upper part of the building
- Offers unique and modern design options
- Can improve energy efficiency with the use of operable windows and skylights
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install due to its unique design
- May require additional support due to the weight of the roof and windows
- Limited usable attic space due to the sloped design
Combination Roof
The combination roof is a design that combines two or more types of roofs. For example, a combination of gable and traditional hip roofs. The design provides a unique appearance and allows for more flexibility in the use of space. The combination roof is suitable for any climate.
St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
Installation technique: Stonemasonry
Year Built: 1626
Roofing material: Lead
Pros:
- Offers a unique and custom design that can fit with the architectural style of the building
- Provides a mix of the benefits of multiple roofing styles, such as ample attic space and natural light
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install due to its custom design
- May require additional support due to the weight of the roof
- Can be challenging to maintain and repair due to its complex design
Cross-Gabled Roof
The cross-gabled roof is a design with two or more gable roofs intersecting at a right angle. The design provides more headroom and can create a spacious attic. The cross-gabled roof is suitable for areas with moderate rainfall and winds.
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
Installation technique: Wood trusses
Year Built: 1163
Roofing material: Lead
Pros:
- Offers a classic and traditional design that can fit with many architectural styles
- Provides ample attic space for storage or living space
- Provides natural lighting and ventilation with the addition of windows or skylights
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install due to its multiple gables and valleys
- May be prone to leaks and moisture buildup in the valleys
- Can be challenging to maintain and repair due to its complex design
Cross-Hipped Roof
The cross-hipped roof is a design with two or more hipped roofs intersecting at a right angle. The design provides more headroom and can create a spacious attic. The cross-hipped roof is suitable for areas with moderate rainfall and winds.
The White House, Washington D.C., USA
Roof Installation technique: Wood frame
Year Built: 1800
Roofing material: Slate
Pros:
- Provides a unique and custom design that can fit with the architectural style of the building
- Offers the benefits of a hipped roof, such as improved wind resistance and drainage
- Provides natural lighting and ventilation with the addition of larger windows or skylights
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install due to its custom design
- May be prone to leaks and moisture buildup in the valleys
- Can be challenging to maintain and repair due to its complex design
Curved Roof
The curved roof is a design with a curved roof slight slope. The design creates a unique appearance and is suitable for modern architectural styles. The curved roof is suitable for any climate.
Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Installation technique: Pre-cast concrete
Year Built: 1973
Roofing material: Ceramic tiles
Pros:
- Provides a unique and modern design that can make a statement
- Offers opportunities for natural lighting and ventilation through the use of skylights
- Can be energy-efficient with the use of solar panels or green roof systems
Cons:
- Complex design can be expensive and challenging to install
- Limited attic space due to the sloped design
- Requires regular maintenance to prevent leaks
Dome Roof
The dome roof is a design with a rounded roof shape. The design is unique and can create a spacious interior. The dome roof is suitable for any climate.
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
Installation technique: Marble masonry
Year Built: 1653
Roofing material: White marble
Pros:
- Offers a unique and eye-catching design
- Provides excellent wind resistance due to its aerodynamic shape
- Can be constructed using a variety of materials, including metal, concrete, and glass
- Provides ample headroom and can be used to create a spacious interior
- Can be energy-efficient when designed properly, as it can minimize heat loss and gain
Cons:
- Can be difficult to construct due to its complex shape
- Requires specialized materials and construction techniques, which can be expensive
- Can be more challenging to maintain and repair than other popular roof types
- Limited design flexibility due to its unique shape
Dormer Roof
The dormer is a design with a small roof that projects from a larger roof. The design provides additional space and can create more natural light in the building. Dormers are suitable for any climate.
Biltmore Estate, North Carolina, USA
Installation technique: Wood frame
Year Built: 1895
Roofing material: Slate
Pros:
- Increases usable space in an attic or upper floor
- Provides additional natural light and ventilation to the interior of the building
- Adds visual interest to the roofline and can improve curb appeal
- Can be designed to match the style of the existing roof
- Can be constructed using a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and asphalt shingles
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install, especially for larger dormers or those with more intricate designs
- Can be more vulnerable to leaks and other water-related issues due to their protruding nature
- May require additional maintenance and repair compared to a standard roof
- Can affect the overall structural integrity of the roof if not designed and installed properly
Dutch Gable Roof
The Dutch gable roof is a design with a hip roof and a gable roof. The gable is located at the top of the hip roof. The design provides additional space and can create a unique appearance. The Dutch gable roof is suitable for areas with moderate rainfall and winds.
Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Installation technique: Wood frame
Year Built: 1635
Roofing material: Clay tiles
Pros:
- Provides a unique and distinctive look to the building
- Offers extra space for an attic or upper floor due to its steep slope
- Can be designed to match the style of the building’s architecture
- Can be constructed using a variety of materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and clay tiles
- Offers excellent drainage and ventilation due to its steep slope
Cons:
- Can be more expensive to install compared to a standard gable roof due to its complex design
- May require additional maintenance and repair due to its steep roof slope and unique shape
- Can be more vulnerable to wind damage compared to other common roof types due to its steep slope
- Limited design flexibility due to its unique shape
Flat Roof
The flat roof is a design with a horizontal surface. The design provides more usable space and is easy to install. Flat roofs are suitable for areas with low rainfall.
Fallingwater, Pennsylvania, USA
Installation technique: Reinforced concrete
Year Built: 1935
Roofing material: Gravel
Please note that some information, such as installation technique and roofing material, may vary depending on the specific renovation or repair work done on the building over the years.
Pros:
- Offers a modern aesthetic and sleek look to the building
- Provides additional outdoor living space or green roof opportunities
- Can be more cost-effective compared to other roof types
- Allows for easy installation of solar panels, HVAC units, and other rooftop equipment
- Can be designed to offer excellent insulation and energy costs savings
Cons:
- Can be more vulnerable to leaks and water damage compared to other roof types
- Requires regular maintenance and inspection to prevent issues from arising
- Can be more prone to snow and water buildup, especially in areas with heavy precipitation
- Offers limited design flexibility and can be seen as less visually appealing compared to other roof types.
Front Gable
The front gable roof is a simple design with two sloping sides that meet at the center of the house. It is commonly used in colonial-style homes and provides ample space for an attic or storage area. This roof design is best suited for areas with moderate to high rainfall and snow loads.
The White House in Washington D.C., USA is an iconic example of a front gable roof. It was built in 1800 and has a shingle slate roof.
Pros:
- Simple design that is easy to construct
- Provides additional space for an attic or storage
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with high winds, as it can be easily damaged
- Limited design options
Gable Roof with Shed Roof Addition
This design combines a gable roof with a shed roof to create an interesting and unique look. The gable roof provides height and space while the shed roof adds extra covered space for a porch or patio. This design is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall and snow loads.
The Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia has a unique gable roof with shed roof additions. It was built in 1973 and features precast concrete tiles in an off-white color.
Pros:
- Provides additional space for an attic or storage
- Ideal for sheds or garages
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
Cons:
- Limited design options
- Shed roof addition can be prone to leaks if not properly constructed and maintained
Gambrel Roof
This style is commonly found in barns and farmhouses. It has two sloping sides on each of its two sides, creating a distinctive barn-like appearance. The upper slope is shallower than the lower slope, providing extra headroom and space in the upper part of the roof. This design is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall and snow loads.
The Barnegat Lighthouse in Barnegat Light, New Jersey, USA has a classic gambrel roof. It was built in 1859 and features a cedar shingle roof in natural wood color.
Pros:
- Provides additional space for an attic or storage
- Unique and eye-catching design
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with high winds, as it can be easily damaged
- Limited design options
Half Hipped Roof
Also known as a clipped gable or jerkinhead roof, this design combines the features of a hip and gable roof. It has two sloping sides, with the lower ends of the gable sides clipped off to create a hipped roof appearance. This design is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall and wind loads.
The Globe Theatre in London, England has a distinct half-hipped roof. It was originally built in 1599 but was destroyed by fire in 1613. The current reconstruction features a thatched roof.
Pros:
- Provides additional space for an attic or storage
- Offers a unique and interesting design
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with high winds, as it can be easily damaged
- Limited design options
Hexagonal Gazebo Roof
A pavilion or gazebo with this roof design is typically used for a small structure. It has a six-sided shape with a single-sloping roof that meets at the center. This design is best suited for areas with low to moderate rainfall and snow loads.
The Hexagon House in Pentwater, Michigan, USA features a hexagonal gazebo with a classic metal shingle standing seam roof in a dark green color. The house was built in 1874.
Pros:
- Provides a unique and attractive design
- Ideal for outdoor structures such as gazebos and pavilions
Cons:
- Limited applications beyond outdoor structures
- Limited design options
Hip and Valley Roof
This design combines two or more hip roofs that intersect at valleys. It creates a more complex and interesting roofline than a simple hip roof. This design is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall and wind loads.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India has a grand hip and valley roof with multiple domes. It was built between 1632 and 1653 and features white marble shingles.
Pros:
- Provides a unique and interesting design
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
- Provides additional living space in the attic
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with high winds, as it can be easily damaged
- Limited design options
Jerkinhead Roof
Also known as a clipped gable or half-hipped roof, this design is a combination of a gable and hip roof. It has a gable-style roof with the ends clipped off to create a hipped appearance. This design is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall and wind loads.
The Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal has a stunning jerkinhead roof. It was built in the 19th century and features terracotta tiles in a variety of colors.
Pros:
- Provides a unique and interesting design
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
- Offers some additional living space in the attic
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with high winds, as it can be easily damaged
- Limited design options
Mansard Roof
This roof style is characterized by two slopes on all four sides, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper slope. It is commonly used in French roofs and Victorian-style homes and provides extra living space in the attic. This design is suitable for areas with moderate to high rainfall and heavy snowfall loads.
The Louvre Museum in Paris, France has a grand mansard roof that covers the palace’s second floor. It was originally built in the 12th century but underwent numerous renovations, including the addition of the mansard roof in the 17th century. It features lead roofing in a dark grey color.
Pros:
- Provides additional living space in the attic
- Unique and eye-catching design
- Good for shedding snow and rainwater
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with high winds, as it can be easily damaged
- Limited design options
M-Shaped Roof
The M-shaped roof is a complex design that resembles two gable roof designs joined together. It is also known as a butterfly roof because the middle section slopes down, creating a depression between the two gable roof sections. This design is popular for modern aesthetics and contemporary-style homes, providing an interesting architectural element. It is well-suited for areas with heavy rainfall or snow as the slope of the roof allows for efficient drainage.
Burj Al Arab in Dubai, UAE (Built-in 1999, roofing material: White Teflon-coated fiberglass)
Kansas City International Airport in Missouri, USA (Built-in 1972, roofing material: Red copper)
Pros:
- Provides additional living space due to the two slopes
- A great option for homes with spacious interiors
- The steep pitch of the roof, makes it easy to drain rainwater
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light
Cons:
- The installation and maintenance costs may be more expensive
- The complexity of the design may require specialized expertise for installation and repair
- Limited use of attic space
- Requires frequent maintenance to prevent leaks
Open Gable Roof
An open gable roof, also known as a pitched or peaked roof, is a traditional style with two sloping sides that meet at a central ridge. The end walls are left open, creating a triangular roof gable at either end of the building. This design is versatile and can be used for residential buildings or commercial buildings. It is best suited for areas with mild climates as the design may not withstand heavy winds or heavy snowfall loads.
Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia (Built-in 1973, roofing material: White ceramic tiles)
Fallingwater House in Pennsylvania, USA (Built-in 1937, roofing material: Flat, reinforced concrete)
Pros:
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light.
- Can be combined with dormer windows to add additional living space and visual interest.
- Easy to construct, install, and maintain.
- Ideal for areas with high winds because of its sloped design.
Cons:
- Not ideal for areas with heavy snow or rain due to its slight pitch.
- Limited use of attic space.
- Requires frequent maintenance to prevent leaks.
- May be prone to potential wind damage if not properly secured.
Parapet Roof
A parapet roof is a flat or low-slope roof with a vertical wall or parapet extending above the roofline. This design provides a modern aesthetics and can be used for both residential and commercial buildings. It is ideal for areas with strong winds as the parapet provides added protection to the roof.
Taj Mahal in Agra, India (Built-in 1653, roofing material: White marble)
Buckingham Palace in London, UK (Built-in 1703, roofing material: Slate)
Pros:
- Provides additional living space for a rooftop deck or garden
- Offers privacy and noise reduction due to its barrier design
- Provides excellent insulation and energy efficiency
- Multiple materials are available for construction
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install and maintain.
- Requires regular upkeep to prevent leaks.
- Limited ventilation and natural light.
- Can be prone to damage in areas with high winds or seismic activity
Pyramid Hip Roof
A pyramid roof is a square-shaped roof with four sloping sides that meet at a central point or apex. This design is ideal for areas with high winds or hurricanes as the shape provides added stability. It is also well-suited for areas with heavy rainfall or snow as the slope of the roof allows for efficient drainage.
Louvre Pyramid roof in Paris, France (Built-in 1989, roofing material: Stainless steel and glass)
Temple of the Inscriptions in Palenque, Mexico (Built-in 7th century AD, roofing material: Stone)
Pros:
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light.
- Can be easily combined with dormer windows to add additional living space and visual interest.
- Ideal for areas with high winds due to its sloped design.
- Provides excellent water drainage.
Cons:
- Limited use of attic space.
- Can be more expensive to install and maintain due to its complex design.
- Not ideal for areas with heavy snow.
- Requires frequent maintenance to prevent leaks.
Saltbox Roof
The saltbox roof is a traditional New England design with a steeply sloping roof on one side and a shallower slope on the other side. The design is asymmetrical, with a longer slope on the back of the building, creating a unique and interesting appearance. This design is best suited for areas with mild climates as the design may not withstand heavy winds or snow loads.
Cogswell’s Grant in Massachusetts, USA (Built-in 1710, roofing material: Wood Shingles)
Harrison House in Delaware, USA (Built in the 1700s, roofing material: Wooden shingles)
Pros:
- Provides additional living space on the second floor due to the asymmetrical design.
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light.
- Ideal for areas with high winds due to its sloped design.
- Provides excellent water drainage.
Cons:
- Limited use of attic space.
- Can be more expensive to install and maintain due to its asymmetrical design.
- Not ideal for areas with heavy snow.
- Requires frequent maintenance to prevent leaks.
Shed Roof or Skillion
A shed roof, also known as a skillion roof or lean-to roof, is a single-sloping roof attached to a higher wall. Suitable for sheds, carports, and other outdoor structures, it is a simple and economical design. This design is best suited for areas with mild cold climates as the design may not withstand heavy winds or snow loads.
Vakko Fashion Center in Istanbul, Turkey (Built-in 2006, roofing material: Galvanized metal roofs)
Olnick Spanu House in New York, USA (Built-in 2011, roofing material: Copper)
Pros:
- Provides excellent water drainage
- Construction, installation, and maintenance are easy
- Ideal for areas with high winds due to its sloped design
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light
Cons:
- Limited use of attic space.
- Can be prone to damage in areas with high winds.
- Not ideal for areas with heavy snow.
- Limited design options.
Simple Hip Roof
The simple hip roof, also known as a hipped roof, is a traditional style with four sloping sides that meet at a central ridge. Whether you want to build a residential or commercial structure, this design fits the bill. It is well-suited for areas with heavy rainfall or snow as the slope of the roof allows for efficient drainage.
St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City (Built-in 1626, roofing material: Lead)
Buckingham Palace in London, UK (Built-in 1703, roofing material: Slate)
Pros:
- Provides excellent water drainage.
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light.
- Ideal for areas with high winds due to its sloped design.
- Can be combined with dormers to add additional living space and visual interest.
Cons:
- Limited use of attic space
- The cost of installation and maintenance may be higher
- Not ideal for areas with heavy snow
- Requires frequent maintenance to prevent leaks
Skillion and Lean-to Roof
A skillion or lean-to roof is a single-sloping roof attached to a higher wall. It is similar to a shed roof but is typically larger and more complex. This modern home design is well-suited for areas with mild hot climates as the design may not withstand heavy winds or snow loads. Buildings such as carports and covered patios may use this roofing design, as well as residential and commercial buildings.
There are advantages and disadvantages to each roofing design. Climate, the house’s architectural style, and personal preference all affect the suitability of a particular design. The best popular roof style design for your home and location should be determined by a professional roofing contractor.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in California, USA (Built-in 1995, roofing material: Zinc)
Farnsworth House in Illinois, USA (Built-in 1951, roofing material: Galvanized metal shingle)
Pros:
- Provides excellent water drainage
- Ideal for areas with high winds due to its sloped design
- Convenient and simple to build, install, and maintain
- Provides excellent ventilation and natural light
Cons:
- Limited use of attic space.
- Can be prone to damage in areas with high winds.
- Not ideal for areas with heavy snow.
- Limited design options.
