Types Of Roofing Designs

Gable Roof

The gable roof is the most common roof shape. Sparking memories of childhood drawings, these a-frame roofs are a popular and economical design. 

Gable roofs feature a triangle design with the base resting on top of the house. Gable roofs range from simple to advanced designs, and the slope can range from gentle to steep.  

Hip Roof

Hip roofs comprisefour equal-length slopes that join in the middle to form a pitched roof. These roofs are extremely visible, making up a large portion of a home’s curb appeal, so choosing high-quality materials from a design perspective is critical.

Hip roofs are more stable than gable roofs and are only slightly less common. Combination roofs often combine gable and hip roof styles, highlighting areas such as entrance gables or dormer windows.   

Hip roofs are expensive with the tradeoff of extra stability and more storage space than a gable roof. You can expect to spend approximately 40% more on hip roof styles compared to gable systems. 

Dutch Roof

A dutch gable roof is a hip roof with a small gable at either end. The gablet is perched on top of a traditional hip roof. Gablets increase attic space and allow for windows to be added for natural light.

Jerkinhead Roof

Jerkinhead roofs, also known as bullnose and clipped gable roofs, combine elements of both gable and hip roofs to create a sturdy, all-weather roof.

The center features a gable roof while both end peaks are bent inward to create small hips. These design elements at the front and back of the home are great for showcasing high-end, designer roof shingles. 

Pyramid Roof

pyramid roofs on smaller homes, gazebos, outbuildings, cabins, and even tropical bungalows. These modified hip roofs conjure images of ancient civilizations and mummies. With no gables or vertical sides, they are extremely weather-resistant.

Bonnet Roof

Bonnet roofs arereverse mansard roofs featuring a double slope. They are modified hip roofs that are more stable in high winds than both traditional hip and gable roofs.

Gambrel Roof

Gambrel roofs conjure images of classic red barns, wide open fields, and spotted cows. Similar to mansard roofs, these have two sloped sides instead of four, one steep and one gentle. 

The focus of a gambrel roof is adding extra attic or loft space while dormer windows increase natural light. Also known as the barn roof, these roofs make up a large percentage of a structure’s visible exterior, making material choices an important aesthetic component.

Skillion Roof

The skillion roof, or shed roof, is a staple in modern home design. These lean-to style roofs resemble gable roofs that have been split in half. The steep slopes aid water and snow runoff. 

Skillion roofs are popular with home additions because of their quick installation and relatively inexpensive costs. They work well when combined with other styles and make an ideal space for solar panels or skylights. 

Curved Roof

Curved roof systemsprovide a modern shape and feel, featuring a curved arch at either end. Curves create beautiful arched entrances or make great wing editions on commercial properties. 

These roofs are extremely weather-resistant; however, they require specialized labor to install, making them an expensive option. Many roofing companies will only install a curved roof on commercial properties with metal materials. 

Flat Roof

Flat roofs provide an opportunity for future levels to be added to a home and work well with open floor plans. Unfortunately, flat roofs are extremely prone to leaks and are commonly sealed with PVC, TPO, or rubber membrane. Additionally, they require routine maintenance to ensure sealants remain intact.

Saltbox Roof

Saltbox roofs feature an asymmetrical design found on many early colonial and Cape Cod-style homes. These roofs feature a flat or low-slope roof on one side with a lean-to, shed-style gable on the other side, creating a triangular view from the front and back. 

Saltbox roofs are popular on the East Coast and in the northeast because of their ability to withstand heavy snow and rainfall. They are more expensive than traditional gable or hip roofs, but the distinct style adds value to a home. 

Butterfly Roof

Butterfly roofs feature an inverted gable design. The contemporary styleworks well with large windows, solar panels, and rainwater catchment system. The unique design is best suited to areas of the Southwest or tropical Southeast and is ideal for windy climates.

Sawtooth Roof

Sawtooth roofs resemble serrated blades. They comprise multiple slopes at the same angle and are a popular choice for modern design. 

Dormer Roof

While dormers, or windows, are not technically a roof style on their own, they make a popular addition to many roofs.Dormer windows project vertically from the roof, supplying natural light to attic or loft areas.