Types of Roofing Materials
There are a wide variety of roofing materials to choose from. You can find one that suits your climate and accentuates the style of your home.
Regardless of the type you select, accurate roof measurements are essential. Anderson Roofing and Exteriors will help you determine how many shingle bundles you need. You can also use this information to estimate costs and budget for your roofing project.
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of shingle on homes. They are available in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to create a roof that complements their home’s design and architecture. These shingles are also durable and can withstand high winds and heavy snowfall. They also provide excellent insulation, which helps to lower energy bills.
There are two basic types of asphalt shingles: fiberglass and organic. Fiberglass shingles have a base mat made of paper, waste material, cellulose, or wood fibers saturated with asphalt and covered with granules. Organic shingle base mats are usually made of recycled materials and contain up to 40% more asphalt than fiberglass shingles. This makes them more pliable and resistant to fire damage, and they offer a better class B FM fire rating than fiberglass shingles.
Both kinds of shingles have a lifespan specified by their manufacturer. 3-tab shingles live the shortest, while architectural and luxury shingles can last up to 30 years or more under the right conditions.
While there are some advantages to using asphalt shingles, these shingles do require some maintenance and upkeep. They need to be checked regularly for moss and algae growth and replaced as required after severe weather. Additionally, asphalt shingles are less environmentally friendly than other roofing materials since they are manufactured from petroleum and fiberglass.
The good news is that more manufacturers are producing energy-efficient versions of these shingles, so getting the benefits of an asphalt roof with less environmental impact is possible. Many of these shingles are made with reflective materials that help to reduce the amount of heat the shingles absorb from the sun.
Regardless of which type of shingle you choose, it is important to have the right number and quality to protect your home. The best way to ensure you have enough shingles is to ask your roofing contractor for advice on how much shingle area you need. They can also advise you on the best shingle types for your area and climate.
Wood shingles provide a rustic, cottage-esque aesthetic to a home. Though they’re not as well suited for rainy climates as other roofing materials, well-cared-for wooden roofs can last for decades. Some homeowners enjoy how they fade over time, giving their home a weathered look that adds charm.
Depending on the region, different types of wood are used for roofing and siding. The most popular type of wood shingle is cedar, with wallaba and teak being common choices. Cedar and wallaba shingles offer a timeless appeal, while teak adds a more exotic flavor to homes with a contemporary style.
A wood shingle can be sawn or split, offering a more rugged, natural appearance. Shake shingles can be hand split or sawn, and the finished product can be left rough on one side (handshake) or sawn on both sides for a more tailored look (taper sawn). A high-quality shingle should be cut perpendicular to the tree’s growth rings.
Its color and grain pattern can further distinguish the quality of a wooden shingle. Colored shingles are often stained or treated to enhance their durability. However, the appearance of a shingle will be more affected by the climate, installation quality, and maintenance schedule.
While they’re a beautiful choice for many regions, wood shingles require more upkeep than roofing materials. They must be treated annually to maintain their water and fire resistance and should be cleaned at least once a year. They’re also heavier than other shingles, making them unsuitable for some structures.
Slate is an alternative to wood shingles, offering the same elegant, old-fashioned look that many homeowners desire. Slate is extremely durable and weather-resistant, and it’s not uncommon for a well-maintained slate roof to last for a century or more. While it’s more expensive than a wooden shingle, it can save money in the long run by lowering energy costs. Slate is not as easy to install as other shingles and must be carefully cut by a skilled tradesperson. It is also a heavy material to ship and transport.
Clay roof tiles are an old-fashioned roofing material that can add a rustic charm to any home. They are usually associated with Spanish architecture but can be used on other styles of homes. They are highly durable and energy-efficient. They help keep heat in the house during warm and out during cold weather, lowering your heating and cooling bills. They also protect against rain, frost, wind, and the sun’s UV rays. Unlike asphalt shingles, they do not lose color and can last decades.
A clay tile roof is more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof, but it is worth the investment in terms of increased home value. This type of roofing is a good choice for homeowners who want to build a new home or are redoing their current roof. Finding a roofing contractor with experience installing clay tile is important. It is best to hire a pro who has worked on several different types of houses or historical buildings.
Concrete roof tiles are another good alternative to asphalt shingles. They are available in various colors and patterns to match any architectural style. They are also easy to maintain and add a unique look to any home. They are a great choice for people in hot or humid climates, as they can resist mold and mildew better than asphalt shingles.
While it is possible to install a concrete roof on a home with an existing structure, it is better to rebuild the entire roof with this type of roofing to achieve its maximum potential. This is because the existing roof may not be able to support the weight of the tiles. Replacing wood shingles with cement is also recommended, as they are more fire-resistant than wooden ones.
While clay tiles are more durable than other roofing materials, they can still deteriorate with age. This can lead to structural damage, so it is crucial to have your roof regularly inspected and repaired.
Slate is one of the most beautiful roofing materials available, and it has a natural, timeless appeal that complements classic homes from the 19th century and modernist houses built in recent years. Its beauty is only surpassed by its durability and longevity, however. It can last a century or more when it is properly maintained, and it can also add tremendous value to a home.
While it can be expensive, slate is an excellent investment, providing significant savings over the roof’s life. However, it is important to select the right roofer for the job. Slate is heavier than asphalt shingles, requiring a special skill set not all roofers possess. If a roofer is not experienced with working with slate, mistakes can be made that will be costly to correct.
In addition, slate is sensitive to temperature changes and must be installed correctly to prevent damage. Roofers unfamiliar with these issues can cause problems requiring a roof replacement or repair much sooner than necessary.
Most slates are cut into standardized shingle sizes, but they can also be cut into different shapes to form geometric patterns and create other designs. These patterns can add texture to a house and even serve as a way to hide an unsightly chimney or vent.
While slate is a good choice for homeowners interested in a more traditional look, it is also possible to use synthetic slate on modernist buildings and homes. Synthetic slate is manufactured from petroleum-based materials and cast from authentic slate, and it can be recycled as a roofing shingle at the end of its useful life. Most synthetic slates are produced with non-toxic, environmentally friendly materials and contain advanced ultraviolet inhibitors to reduce wear.
What Is a Residential Roofer?
Residential roofers are licensed professionals who help homeowners repair and place roofs. They work in crews and can re-roof a house quickly.
Having a professionally fitted roof can save homeowners money on repairs in the long run. It can also protect their homes from water damage, fires, and other dangerous situations.
Roofers are responsible for installing and repairing roofs on buildings, such as homes and commercial structures. This work involves measuring the dimensions of the roof and laying down underlayment before installing roofing materials such as shingles or tiles. It also includes securing these materials and sealing leaky areas to ensure that the building is watertight and durable. Without residential roofers, houses and other buildings would be vulnerable to rainwater, snow, sun, and wind damage.
Most roofers are qualified to work on any type of residential roof, but some specialize in certain styles or materials. For example, some may have more experience working on shingle roofs than other types of roofing, while others are experienced with unique roofing designs such as green roofs or solar shingles. Other roofers may have more experience with commercial roofing, which is typically larger and more complex than residential roofing.
In addition to replacing and repairing roofs, residential roofers may also install gutter systems, downspouts, and chimney flashing. They are often knowledgeable about a variety of roofing materials and can recommend the best options for a particular building or climate.
Before roofers can begin work, they must tear off the old roof and prepare the underlayment. This process is labor intensive and can take several days. Some homeowners choose to have their roofs raised during this time, which can be expensive but is necessary for proper ventilation and insulation.
Roofers must carefully inspect each section of a roof before beginning work to determine the cause of any leaks or other problems. They use tools such as ladders, scaffolding, and power tools to access the various parts of a roof. They must also clean up debris and dust from the job site daily.
Homeowners can help prepare their homes for roofing work by protecting plants with tarps or netting. They should also cover any valuables in the garage with a tarp to protect them from falling shingles or other debris. If they have children, it is a good idea to arrange for them to stay at a friend or neighbor’s house during the roofing project so that they are not exposed to construction noise or dust.
They Work on Single-Family Homes and Multi-Unit Housing Complexes
Residential roofers work on a variety of roofing structures, from single-family homes to multi-unit housing complexes. They must be familiar with a range of roofing materials to install and repair them effectively. They also need to be able to recognize problems with the roofing system, such as leaks. In addition, residential roofers must be comfortable working on ladders and scaffolding to access the roofs of these structures.
A single-family home is a free-standing house that has one dwelling unit and may have a front yard, backyard and garage. It is typically built on a separate lot from other houses. Single-family homes are the most common type of residential structure that roofers work on.
Multifamily homes, also known as duplexes, triplexes and quadplexes, have two to four housing units in the same structure. Each unit has its own kitchen, bathroom, utility meter, address and entrance. Multifamily homes are often stacked on the same lot and share walls, but they differ from condominiums or apartment buildings in which residents own their individual units.
Roofers who specialize in green roofing use specialized materials that promote the growth of grass, flowers and other vegetation on a roof. These roofs provide insulation and improve the environment in the surrounding area. They also reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills.
Many homeowners prefer to hire roofers who have experience with green roofs because of the environmental benefits they offer. These roofs are also cost-effective and durable, and they can help homeowners save on their energy bills.
Other roofing specialists include metal roofers, flat roofers and slate or tile roofers. Metal roofers work with materials like copper, aluminum and steel to create durable and visually appealing roofs. Flat roofers have a specific expertise in working with roofs that have little or no slope, commonly found on commercial buildings and some residential structures. Slate and tile roofers have experience using natural or synthetic slate, clay or concrete tiles to create long-lasting, visually appealing roofs.
To work efficiently, residential roofers must be comfortable working in a variety of weather conditions. They must also have the right tools to complete jobs in a timely manner. For example, having a nail gun instead of a hammer can cut down on the number of nails that need to be used and increase productivity. Providing workers with water and lunch breaks can also boost productivity. This is because even the most experienced roofers can lose efficiency if they are overworked.
They Follow National Safety Standards
Residential roofers must adhere to a wide range of national safety standards. These safety measures are designed to prevent common roofing accidents, such as falls, that can occur while working at heights. These regulations often require residential roofers to wear safety harnesses and lanyards, as well as install guardrails on a roof’s edge. These safety protocols are widely recognized as vital to worker wellbeing, but unfortunately, they’re not always implemented.
The prevailing perspective among many roofers is that it’s simply not practical to implement strict safety measures when working on a job site. In the minds of these workers, putting on a safety harness or fastening a lanyard is simply an unnecessary interruption to their workflow. It may slow them down, and in the long run, it’s likely to cost them money.
Additionally, residential roofers might be influenced by the example of more seasoned colleagues who operate without adhering to the necessary safety guidelines. This can create a dangerous mentality that leads novice roofers to believe that it’s perfectly acceptable for them to skip protective measures, too.
Finally, many residential roofers might find it challenging to balance their commitment to following national safety guidelines with a desire to complete projects as quickly and efficiently as possible. This mindset can often lead to a subconscious bias towards forgoing certain safety protocols, particularly when it comes to establishing and maintaining fall protection systems.
While a safe work environment is vital for all industries, it’s particularly critical in roofing, where falling from heights is an all-too-common occurrence. In fact, this occupation is ranked among the most hazardous in the country, with a staggering 20-32% of all workplace deaths occurring in this field each year. Ultimately, it’s imperative for all roofing contractors to adopt a new, more responsible paradigm that prioritizes worker safety above all else. With the right approach, this can cultivate a climate where every roofer returns home safely at the end of each day. This can be achieved through comprehensive training, robust awareness campaigns and a dedication to the principle that the value of each life surpasses any perceived inconvenience.
They Work in Crews
A residential roofer typically works in a crew with several other workers. They are highly skilled and work with specialized roofing materials. A skilled roofer can quickly identify problems with a roof and determine how to repair them.
Whether they’re installing a new roof or repairing an existing one, a residential roofer must follow national safety standards. This is because working at heights puts them at risk of falling. In addition, roofers often use ladders or scaffolding to access rooftops. As a result, they need to be mindful of their surroundings and carefully plan each step of the project before beginning work.
Most roofers have a supervisor who oversees the team. In this role, the supervisor ensures the crew follows all national safety standards, as well as company policies. They also help with the sales process, answering questions from customers and explaining roofing options.
Larger roofing companies have a number of different crews that each specialize in different types of roofing. They are often organized by region and can help homeowners choose the right type of roof for their home. This type of roofing company may also offer zero-interest financing to make it easier for homeowners to afford the work.
Small business roofers are often family-owned and operated. They’re less likely to have a customer service department, which can make it difficult to get in touch with someone about your project. However, they tend to have lower prices and overhead than larger roofing companies.
In general, these small business roofers have a limited number of crews that work on different types of houses. They also typically have more flexible scheduling than larger roofing companies, which can be beneficial if you have pets or children who need to be at home during the job.
Storm chasers are another type of roofing contractor that focuses on insurance-related work. They’ll travel to areas with a high number of insurance claims and then offer to help homeowners file the claim and receive compensation for their roof. While they can save homeowners money, it’s important to remember that these roofers are not licensed and don’t have the same qualifications as other roofing contractors.
The Basics of Roofing
The primary function of your roof is to shield your home from snow, rain, and other weather elements. But it’s also an architectural element that can add a lot to the look of your house.
Before you hire 5R Roofing for repairs or a full roof replacement, it’s important to understand the basics of roofing. Learn about rafters, sheathing, and more.
Rafters are the primary structure of a roof, providing a sturdy frame to support the attic and the roof deck and shingles above. They can be built on-site or prefabricated in a factory, depending on the type of roof and its specifications. Whether a homeowner is building a new house or working on a renovation project, it’s important to understand the basics of roofing to discuss plans with a professional contractor and get the best possible outcome.
Rafters can be built by hand on a site using stick framing or prefabricated and delivered to the construction site, where they’re craned into place. Typically, rafters are made from lumber, such as 2x10s. They’re fastened to a ridge board at the roof’s peak and ceiling joists and then connected to the exterior walls.
A ridge vent is often installed along the roof ridge to allow warm air to escape and prevent ice dams. Attic insulation also helps reduce heat transfer between rafters and the attic space. Finally, a drip edge protects the edges of the eaves from water damage.
The next layer of the roof is called the sheathing, which is usually plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). It provides an even surface for placing the shingles and other materials on top. A protective membrane known as the black roofer’s felt or a synthetic underlayment is also sometimes attached to sheathing for additional protection.
The rafters and sheathing provide the basis of the roof, but it’s essential to add extra structures to ensure enough space for attic insulation and other items, such as baffles. These channels enable airflow from soffit vents to the attic, where it can escape and prevent condensation and mold. In addition, attic ventilation can help reduce the temperature in the attic and lower utility bills. In addition, it’s a good idea to install an insulated ceiling over the loft.
Roof sheathing is what creates the base for your roof system. It consists of large rectangular boards that lay across your home’s rafters and secure to them using nails or screws. It serves as the structure for your roof and helps ensure that the shingles you choose can support your home’s roof covering.
Plywood or oriented strand board (abbreviated OSB) is typically used as sheathing. These wood materials are strong and durable, with high dimensional stability and resistance to warping or splitting. However, they are more susceptible to moisture damage than other sheathing materials. That is why it’s important to prioritize proper installation techniques and use good construction practices when installing sheathing.
The sheathing helps distribute the weight of the shingles evenly across your roof. That helps prevent sagging or bowing of your roof’s trusses and rafters, which can lead to structural issues and damage to the rest of your house. The sheathing also helps ensure that your roof can support the asphalt shingles you’ll install.
In addition to providing structural support, sheathing can help insulate your home. It can help reduce heat transfer, which can lower your energy costs. There are several types of sheathing, including fiberglass, wood, and foam insulation. The kind you’ll use depends on the climate in your area and your budget.
While many people may overlook the role of sheathing, it plays a crucial role in the integrity and performance of your roof. When choosing the right sheathing material and prioritizing proper installation and maintenance, you can build a strong shelter that will protect your home for years. I have seen way too many homeowners dive into the roof replacement process without knowledge of roofing basics, leading to them being taken advantage of or making bad purchasing decisions based on bad advice. Don’t let that happen to you! Learn the nine main parts of your roof to understand and make informed decisions.
A shingle is a flat rectangular roofing material laid in a specific pattern. Its role is to provide protection from the elements and help to keep your home cool and dry. Shingles, made of asphalt, wood, clay, or slate, protect the roof deck from water, snow, and sun damage. The shingles themselves can also add a decorative element to the look of your home. Shingles are available in various colors, shapes, and sizes and are usually attached to the roof in overlapping courses.
The basic shingles used on most homes are 3-tab asphalt shingles. These shingles have cut-outs in them that create three individual tabs. That is the most common type of shingle and offers good water resistance. However, if you want your roof to have more of a decorative or architectural appearance, consider going with a premium/designer shingle. These offer a high-end aesthetic with additional performance characteristics like impact resistance.
Regardless of the kind of shingle you choose, the first course of shingles is called the starter course. These shingles are only half as wide as regular shingles and keep rain from running between the gaps where the rest are installed. A ridge cap, board, piece, or roll is then installed to cover the top of the roof, typically covered with a ridge vent.
Synthetic underlayment is applied to the roof deck to prevent water from seeping under the shingles and damaging the sheathing. This is often installed by nailing it into the rafters or sheathing with a special nail gun designed for use with synthetic underlayment.
Before a shingle is installed, it is typically treated with sealant to protect against moisture and to increase its longevity. This sealant may be a rubber-like substance such as mastic or an adhesive such as polyurethane or silicone. The treatment can also include a fire retardant, which is helpful in some areas where the roof may be exposed to wildfires.
The gutters on your roof are another important part of the roofing system. If they are full of debris or have clogged up, it can cause water to back up under the shingles and cause leaks and other problems. Regularly clean your gutters and remove branches or other items hanging over the roof edge.
The role of flashing is to prevent water from seeping into walls, roofs, and other structures. Generally, this is accomplished by creating a barrier that stops moisture from entering through joints and penetrations in the structure’s exterior. In roofing construction, flashing is used to waterproof areas around vents, chimneys, skylights, dormer windows, and roof valleys. It’s also used where the roof meets other surfaces, expansion joints, and corners.
Roof flashing is a strip of metal or lead (though other materials are used) bent into shape to fit over a joint or penetration in a roof. It’s installed under the shingles to create a tight seal. Without proper flashing, water would leak into these areas, causing structural damage and potential health issues in the home.
There are several different types of flashing, each designed for specific locations on the roof. For example, step flashing is used where a dormer projects from the top and meets a wall. Water could easily slip past the shingles and into the building without this flashing. With step flashing, however, the water is deflected away from the wall and into gutters.
Other types of flashing include pipe flashing, which is used where pipes enter the roof or wall. This one-piece collar fits around the pipe’s diameter and is sometimes made of rubber or silicone for easier expansion and contraction. Valley flashing is used where two roof slopes meet, which can be hidden under shingles or exposed, as shown here. Wall flashing is another flashing often used above doors and windows, and it’s a metal liner that runs along the edge of a wall to provide extra waterproofing.
Flashing is an important part of the roof and should be inspected regularly. If there is any corrosion or damage, it should be repaired immediately. Otherwise, it’s a great way to help keep your roof in good condition.
Choosing The Type Of Roof That Best Suits Your Needs
There are many decisions to make when it comes to building a new home or replacing the roof on an existing structure. One of the most important is choosing the type of roof that best suits your needs. Several factors need to be taken into consideration when making this decision, such as the local climate and how it will affect the roof. Choosing Roof Replacement Johns Creek and the right roofing material is also crucial.
Gable Roofs
A gable roof is a triangular extension on each side of the home’s frame, giving the structure an attractive and classic shape. This type of roof is the go-to choice in areas that experience harsh weather like snow, hail, or high winds, as a gable’s steep slope easily sheds precipitation.
A basic gable roof can be constructed using any roofing material, including asphalt shingles, slate or cedar shakes, and metal roofs. However, rolled rubber roofing won’t work with a gable roof, as the wind can cause the materials to lift and peel off from the partitions.
The steep slope of a gable roof also helps to protect the home from leaks and water damage. The design naturally sends rain, snow, or debris rolling off the roof, rather than accumulating on top of it, which can cause damage to the shingles and potentially lead to mold or pest problems in the home.
As one of the most popular types of roofs in the country, a gable can add visual appeal to any property. The distinctive triangle shape of the gable can draw attention, especially if the shingles are designed with a color or pattern that stands out against the rest of the house. A front gable, in particular, makes an elegant first impression on guests and passersby, as it extends out over the doorway to create an overhang that offers extra space underneath for a porch or other exterior decorations.
Although gable roofs are easy to maintain, homeowners should consult with an experienced contractor when building or replacing this type of roof. This will help ensure the best results and the longevity of the shingles and other roof materials. A reputable professional will also recommend ridge and soffit venting to improve the airflow through the gable roof and prevent moisture buildup inside the home. The expert will also advise on the best type of shingle for this roof to provide excellent protection from harsh weather conditions, as well as recommend a good quality maintenance program for your roof. This will include regular inspections and preventative repairs, as well as the replacement of worn or damaged shingles.
Gambrel Roofs
The gambrel roof is often seen on barns and garages, but it can also be found on cottages, farmhouses, and Dutch Colonial-style houses. Its symmetrical design and angled slopes make it ideal for maximizing attic space, which can be used for storage, living spaces, or even extra bedrooms. Its unique look has become a classic feature in many homes and can add a touch of elegance to any home.
Compared to other roof styles, gambrel roofs are relatively inexpensive to construct and maintain due to their simple, functional design. In addition, they do not require the specialized materials and complicated construction that other types of modern roofs may require, which can dramatically increase costs. Moreover, the steep slopes of this roof type allow it to shed water quickly and effectively. This helps reduce the risk of damage and minimizes the need for costly repairs.
Gambrel roofs are also known for their excellent drainage. They do not trap water or ice, which can be problematic in areas with heavy rainfall and snowfall. In addition, gambrel roofs can be built with multiple dormers to allow for additional natural light, which helps enhance the aesthetic of any house and provides an airy and inviting interior.
This roof style is also compatible with a variety of roofing materials, including wood shingles, asphalt shingles, and metal. This flexibility allows homeowners to choose a roof that suits their taste and complements the overall design of their house. Choosing a roofing contractor who is open to working with your creative vision can help you achieve the perfect roof for your house.
Another benefit of a gambrel roof is that it can easily accommodate dormers and windows. Adding windows to a home can enhance its functionality, increase its value, and provide a warm and welcoming environment for any family. However, this is not possible with most roof types. Fortunately, a gambrel roof can accommodate a variety of window sizes and shapes to suit any architectural style. As a result, this roof type is an ideal choice for homeowners looking to add more curb appeal and improve their home’s energy efficiency.
Mansard Roofs
If you’re building a new home, or just looking to add some extra flair to your current house, you may be considering adding a Mansard roof. This unique roofing style is a beautiful option that offers many benefits that other roof types don’t provide.
A Mansard roof is a four-sided roof structure with two slopes on each side. The lower slope is much steeper than the upper, resulting in a roof that appears almost vertical. This type of roof is also commonly framed with dormer windows, which are designed to allow more natural light into the building and increase its sense of space.
Unlike the standard Gable and Hip roofs, Mansard roofs offer more usable attic space because of their steeper bottom slope. This feature can be an advantage for homeowners who want to convert their attic into a bedroom or other living area. It can also be useful for growing families who need more space or homeowners who work remotely and need a quiet room away from the main areas of their homes.
While this roof style can be framed with a variety of materials, most often it is finished with either traditional shingles or metal tiles. This helps to maintain the Mansard’s historic aesthetic while offering additional protection from the elements. These roofs can also be enhanced with additional features such as solar panels or insulation to help make a home more energy efficient.
Mansard roofs require a little more maintenance than other roof types. Due to their shape, they are more likely to leak or suffer from damage if the roof isn’t properly maintained. This is particularly true if the upper slopes are left exposed to sunlight or wind. This is why it’s important to hire a professional roofer who is familiar with this type of roof to perform regular inspections and repairs.
M-Shaped Roofs
When designing and building a new home or business, the type of roof chosen will have a major impact on the overall look and function of your structure. The roof is not only an aesthetic feature but also provides insulating and ventilation properties. It can also determine how much sunlight a building receives and whether the inside will be cooler or warmer.
With so many different roofing options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your project. Fortunately, expert guidance is available to help you make the best decision for your unique needs and circumstances.
One of the most popular roof types is a gable roof. This design has two sloping sides that meet at the ridge and can provide a lot of extra living space in the attic. A gable roof is also very strong and is suitable for most climates.
Another option is a gambrel or Dutch colonial roof, which has steep upper and lower slopes that create an M-shaped appearance. These roofs are often seen on historic homes in the Northeast and can be very attractive, especially if they’re well-designed. However, these roofs can be quite heavy and may require additional support structures to be safe in high winds.
A hipped roof is similar to a gable in that it has four equal-length slopes that meet at the ridge, but it’s typically more stable and offers superior protection in high winds. This roof shape is also very attractive and can be a good choice for modern residential and commercial buildings.
Other roof shapes to consider include a butterfly roof, which is named for its emulation of a butterfly’s wings. This design has two tandem roofing pieces that meet midway and are angled upwards. It’s a contemporary design that can add a lot of visual interest to a property and also allows for a wide array of floor-to-ceiling windows.
Finally, there are flat or low-pitched roofs, which can be very affordable to install but don’t provide any insulation and may struggle in areas with lots of rain or snowfall.
