Are you building a new home or looking to replace your current roof? With so many different roof designs out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.
As a homeowner myself, I’ve been through the process of researching and selecting the perfect roof style.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll walk you through 28 popular types of roofs, including their pros, cons, and ideal uses. I’ll also share some telltale signs that it’s time for a roof replacement and tips for choosing the best roof design for your home.
By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and get the roof of your dreams. Let’s dive in!
28 Types of Roof Designs & Styles
Gable Roof
The most common residential roof style in the US, a gable roof has two sloping sides that come together at a ridge, forming a triangle shape.
Pros:
- Simple design that’s easy and affordable to build
- Provides excellent ventilation and drainage
- Sheds water and snow efficiently
- Offers more attic/living space
Cons:
- Not ideal for high wind or hurricane-prone areas
- Vulnerable to collapse if not properly constructed
Hip Roof
Similar to a gable roof, a hip roof has slopes on all four sides that join together at the top to form a ridge.
Pros:
- More stable than gable roofs
- Excellent drainage and ventilation
- Ideal for both high wind and snowy regions
Cons:
- More expensive to build than gable roofs
- Requires more building materials
- Less attic space than gable roofs
Flat Roof
Flat roofs aren’t actually 100% flat – they have a slight slope of about 1/4 inch per foot to allow for water drainage. They’re more common on commercial buildings but are becoming popular in modern residential designs.
Pros:
- Cheapest roof to build
- Offers extra living space (deck, garden, patio)
- Easier to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Prone to leaks and water damage if not properly sealed
- Shorter lifespan than sloped roofs
- Not suitable for heavy snow regions
Shed Roof
Also called a skillion roof, a shed roof features a single sloping plane that’s attached to a taller wall.
Pros:
- Simple design that’s easy to build
- Sheds water and snow easily
- Can be installed in sections to save costs
- Ideal for additions or porches
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer much attic space or design flexibility
- Prone to leaks along the wall if flashing isn’t installed properly
Mansard Roof
A mansard roof has two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being much steeper than the upper portion. It’s a popular choice for French-style homes and buildings with living space in the attic.
Pros:
- Maximizes interior attic space
- Unique curb appeal and design flexibility
- Allows for additional windows or dormers
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than other roof types
- Not ideal for heavy snow regions (snow can accumulate on lower slope)
- Requires frequent maintenance to prevent leaks and water damage
Gambrel Roof
Often seen on barns and farmhouses, a gambrel roof is similar to a mansard but with two sides instead of four. It has a shallow upper slope and steep lower slopes on each side.
Pros:
- Provides ample attic/loft space
- Unique, rustic appearance
- Less expensive than a mansard roof
Cons:
- Vulnerable to wind damage if not properly braced
- Prone to leaks along valleys and joints
- Not ideal for heavy snow areas
Butterfly Roof
A butterfly roof features two tandem wings that slope downward from opposing edges, meeting in a valley in the middle. It’s a popular choice for eco-friendly and modern home designs.
Pros:
- Unique, contemporary look
- Ideal for harvesting rainwater
- Provides ample natural light and ventilation
- Allows for high interior ceilings
Cons:
- Prone to leaks and water pooling if not properly designed
- More expensive to build and maintain
- Not ideal for heavy snow or rainfall areas
Sawtooth Roof
A sawtooth roof consists of two or more parallel pitched roofs with vertical surfaces between them. It’s commonly used on industrial and commercial buildings to allow for skylights and natural light.
Pros:
- Provides excellent natural light and ventilation
- Unique, modern aesthetic
- Ideal for solar panel installation
Cons:
- Complex and expensive to construct
- Prone to leaks along the valleys
- Requires frequent maintenance
Curved Roof
A curved roof can take many forms, from a simple arch to a complex dome. They’re often used to add visual interest and a unique architectural element to a building.
Pros:
- Eye-catching, unique design
- Provides excellent drainage
- Ideal for areas with heavy snowfall
- Can be made from a variety of materials
Cons:
- Expensive and complex to design and construct
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
- May require additional structural support
Pyramid Hip Roof
A pyramid hip roof is a type of hip roof with four equal-sized triangular sides that meet at a peak.
Pros:
- Extremely wind resistant
- Sheds water and snow easily
- Ideal for small structures like pool houses and garages
Cons:
- Limited attic space and design flexibility
- More expensive to build than a standard hip roof
Bonnet Roof
A bonnet roof is a modified hip roof with two slopes on each side – a lower, steeper slope and an upper, more gentle slope. The lower slope typically extends beyond the exterior walls to form an overhang.
Pros:
- Provides extra shade and protection for windows and doors
- Unique, decorative appearance
- Ideal for Creole and French-style homes
Cons:
- More complex and expensive to build than a standard hip roof
- Prone to leaks along the transition between the two slopes
- Requires frequent maintenance
Saltbox Roof
A saltbox roof is asymmetrical, with one side longer than the other. It’s commonly seen on Colonial-style homes in New England.
Pros:
- Unique, historic appearance
- Provides extra attic/loft space
- Sheds water and snow easily
Cons:
- More complex to design and build than a standard gable roof
- Uneven weight distribution can lead to structural issues over time
- Limited natural light on the shorter side of the roof
Jerkinhead Roof
Also known as a clipped gable roof, a jerkinhead roof is similar to a gable roof but with the peaks “clipped” or flattened.
Pros:
- More wind resistant than a standard gable roof
- Unique, decorative appearance
- Ideal for English-style cottages and Tudor homes
Cons:
- More complex and expensive to build than a standard gable roof
- Slightly less attic space than a full gable roof
Clerestory Roof
A clerestory roof features a vertical wall with windows above a lower sloped roof, allowing for extra natural light and ventilation.
Pros:
- Provides excellent natural light and passive heating
- Can help reduce energy costs
- Unique, modern appearance
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than a standard roof
- Prone to leaks if not properly sealed
- May require additional structural support
Dome Roof
A dome roof is a rounded roof that’s typically constructed from a series of equal-sized triangular roof panels.
Pros:
- Extremely wind and weather resistant
- Provides excellent natural light and ventilation
- Unique, eye-catching appearance
Cons:
- Very expensive and complex to design and construct
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
- Limited attic space and design flexibility
Conical Roof
A conical roof is a circular roof that slopes upward to a point, like a cone. It’s commonly seen on towers, gazebos, and circular structures.
Pros:
- Sheds water and snow easily
- Ideal for small, circular structures
- Unique, decorative appearance
Cons:
- Limited interior space and design flexibility
- More expensive to build than a standard roof
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
Lean-To Roof
A lean-to roof is a single-sloped roof that’s attached to a taller wall, typically used for additions, porches, and sheds.
Pros:
- Simple and inexpensive to construct
- Ideal for small additions and structures
- Can be installed by a skilled DIYer
Cons:
- Limited design flexibility and interior space
- Prone to leaks if not properly sealed along the wall
- Not suitable for heavy snow or rainfall areas
Lantern Roof
A lantern roof is a type of roof with a small, square structure on top that features windows on all sides, like a lantern. It’s often used to add natural light and ventilation to the attic space.
Pros:
- Provides excellent natural light and ventilation
- Unique, decorative appearance
- Can increase home value and curb appeal
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than a standard roof
- Prone to leaks if not properly sealed
- May require additional structural support
Folded Plate Roof
A folded plate roof consists of a series of parallel, triangular-shaped roof panels that alternate in direction, creating a zig-zag or accordion-like appearance.
Pros:
- Unique, modern aesthetic
- Provides excellent drainage and snow shedding
- Can span large distances without additional support
Cons:
- Very expensive and complex to design and construct
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
- Limited attic space and design flexibility
Combination Roof
A combination roof incorporates two or more roof styles into a single design, such as a hip and gable roof or a gable and valley roof.
Pros:
- Allows for unique, customized designs
- Can maximize interior space and natural light
- Ideal for complex or irregular-shaped homes
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to design and construct
- Requires skilled labor and precise measurements
- Prone to leaks along the transitions between roof styles
Barrel Roof
A barrel roof, also known as a cradle roof, is a curved roof that resembles a half-cylinder or barrel.
Pros:
- Unique, decorative appearance
- Provides excellent drainage and snow shedding
- Can span large distances without additional support
Cons:
- Expensive and complex to design and construct
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
- Limited attic space and design flexibility
Cross Hipped Roof
A cross hipped roof is a type of hip roof with two intersecting hip sections, forming an “L” or “T” shape.
Pros:
- Ideal for homes with irregular or complex floor plans
- Provides excellent drainage and wind resistance
- Can create unique, interesting roof lines
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than a standard hip roof
- Requires precise measurements and skilled labor
- May limit attic space in some areas
Dutch Gable Roof
A Dutch gable roof is a hybrid of a hip and gable roof, with a gable roof on top of a hip roof.
Pros:
- Combines the benefits of both hip and gable roofs
- Provides extra attic space and design flexibility
- Unique, decorative appearance
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than a standard hip or gable roof
- Requires precise measurements and skilled labor
- Prone to leaks along the transition between the hip and gable sections
M-Shaped Roof
An M-shaped roof, also known as a double gable roof, consists of two parallel gable roofs that meet in the middle, forming an “M” shape.
Pros:
- Provides excellent drainage and snow shedding
- Creates unique, interesting roof lines
- Ideal for homes with multiple wings or additions
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than a standard gable roof
- Requires precise measurements and skilled labor
- May limit attic space in some areas
Parapet Roof
A parapet roof is a flat roof with a low wall around the edge, called a parapet, which helps with drainage and provides a safety barrier.
Pros:
- Provides extra safety and security
- Can conceal rooftop equipment and utilities
- Allows for unique design elements and decorative features
Cons:
- More expensive to build than a standard flat roof
- Requires regular maintenance to prevent leaks and water damage
- May limit rooftop space and accessibility
Pyramid Roof
A pyramid roof is a type of hip roof with four equal-sized triangular sides that meet at a single point, forming a pyramid shape.
Pros:
- Extremely wind and weather resistant
- Sheds water and snow easily
- Ideal for small, square structures
Cons:
- Limited attic space and design flexibility
- More expensive to build than a standard hip roof
- Requires precise measurements and skilled labor
Saw-Tooth Roof
A saw-tooth roof consists of a series of parallel, asymmetrical gable roofs that alternate in direction, creating a saw-tooth or zig-zag appearance.
Pros:
- Provides excellent natural light and ventilation
- Unique, industrial aesthetic
- Ideal for large, open-plan spaces
Cons:
- Very expensive and complex to design and construct
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
- Prone to leaks along the valleys and transitions
Skillion Roof
A skillion roof, also known as a shed roof or mono-pitch roof, is a single-sloped roof that’s often used for modern and contemporary home designs.
Pros:
- Simple and inexpensive to construct
- Provides excellent drainage and snow shedding
- Can create unique, asymmetrical roof lines
Cons:
- Limited attic space and design flexibility
- May require additional support for larger spans
- Prone to leaks if not properly sealed along the walls
Vaulted Roof
A vaulted roof is a high, arched roof that creates a spacious, open feel inside the home. It’s often used in great rooms, living rooms, and master bedrooms.
Pros:
- Provides a sense of grandeur and spaciousness
- Can increase natural light and ventilation
- Unique, decorative appearance
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to build than a standard flat or sloped roof
- Requires specialized materials and skilled labor
- May require additional heating and cooling to maintain comfort
Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof
Even the best roofs don’t last forever. Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to start thinking about a roof replacement:
- Your roof is more than 20-25 years old
- You have missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- You notice leaks or water stains on your ceilings or walls
- Your roof is sagging or drooping
- You have excessive moss or algae growth on your roof
- Your energy bills are suddenly higher than usual
- You notice granules from your shingles in your gutters or downspouts
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to call a professional roofing contractor for an inspection and estimate.
How to Decide What Roof Style is Best for Your Home
Choosing the right roof style for your home depends on several factors, including:
- Your home’s architecture and design
- Your local climate and weather conditions
- Your budget and desired level of maintenance
- Your personal style and aesthetic preferences
- Any local building codes or HOA requirements
Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Consider your home’s overall style and architecture. A modern home may look best with a flat or skillion roof, while a traditional home may suit a gable or hip roof.
- Think about your local climate. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, a steep sloped roof like a gable or hip roof may be best for shedding snow and preventing ice dams. If you live in a hot, sunny climate, a light-colored metal roof can help reflect heat and keep your home cooler.
- Set a realistic budget. Some roof styles, like mansard or dome roofs, are more expensive to build and maintain than others. Make sure to get estimates from several contractors and factor in long-term maintenance costs.
- Look at other homes in your neighborhood. While you don’t have to match your neighbors exactly, choosing a roof style that complements the overall look of your community can help boost your home’s curb appeal and resale value.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match. A combination roof can give you the best of both worlds, such as the classic look of a gable roof with the added space and light of a dormer window.
FAQs:
What is the most durable type of roof?
Metal roofs and slate tile roofs are considered the most durable, with lifespans of 50+ years if properly installed and maintained. Clay tile and concrete tile roofs are also very durable.
What type of roof is best for areas with heavy snowfall?
Steeper sloped roofs like gable roofs and hip roofs are best for shedding heavy snow. Avoid low-slope or flat roofs in snowy climates as the weight of accumulated snow can cause damage.
What are the most energy-efficient roofing options?
Metal roofs with reflective coatings, tile roofs, and lighter colored shingles help reflect sunlight and keep homes cooler, improving energy efficiency. Green roofs with plants also provide natural insulation.
What roof styles provide extra living space?
Mansard roofs and gambrel roofs have almost vertical lower slopes, allowing the attic to be converted into additional living space or storage. Dormers can also be added to many roof styles to expand the interior room.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roof style involves carefully evaluating your home’s architecture, your climate and weather conditions, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences. From the classic gable roof to modern styles like the butterfly or shed roof, each design offers a unique combination of functionality and visual appeal.
Consider the pitch and materials best suited for your region’s climate. Decide if you want to maximize attic space or incorporate eco-friendly features. Don’t forget to factor in maintenance requirements and costs over the long term.
Consulting with experienced roofing professionals can help guide you to the optimal roof style for your home.
With the right roof overhead, you can enjoy reliable protection from the elements and a crowning architectural feature that enhances your home’s overall look and value for decades to come.