What are the most common types of roofs

When it's time to build or renovate your house, you will need to decide what type of roof to install. Keep in mind that along with protecting your home from the elements, it contributes to its overall aesthetic appeal.

At RoofingScout, we’re here to provide you with an in-depth breakdown of the various roof types available on the market, highlighting the pros and cons of each. Along with that, we offer some guidance on what could be a good fit based on your geographic location, house size, and other factors.

What are the most common types of roofs?

When you're selecting a roof for your home, it helps to know which ones are the most common. Let’s take a look at these varieties.

• Gable roofs are also known as pitched or peaked roofs. These are some of the most popular in the United States. You will often recognize them by their triangular shape.
• Shed roofs have a lean-to design that looks like half of a traditional gable. Often seen on outbuildings, they're becoming increasingly popular as roofs for modern houses.
• Flat roofs appear to be completely flat with no pitch. They are common in commercial buildings as well as modern and industrial-style homes.
• Mansard roofs are four-sided with a double slope on each side; these come together to form a low-pitched roof. The lower slope is much steeper than the upper.
• Butterfly roofs are modern V-shaped roofs that look like inverted gable roofs. Their two sides slope downward from the edges and meet in the middle.
• Gambrel roofs are also known as barn roofs. Their two sides feature two slopes each, one steep and one gentle.

What are the most common roofing materials?

Along with choosing the right type of roof, you will need to look at the materials used in the project. There are several popular materials from which to select for your project.

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are a widely used roofing material in the United States due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility. They are made from a mixture of asphalt and fiberglass. They come in a range of colors and styles to complement any home design.

One of the biggest advantages of asphalt shingles is their ability to perform well in all types of weather conditions. They are highly resistant to rain, snow, and hail, making them an ideal choice for homeowners living in areas with unpredictable weather. Additionally, they are relatively easy to install.

Unfortunately, asphalt shingles are not the most durable roofing material on the market. They can be susceptible to wind and hail damage. Plus, they may not last as long as more expensive options like metal or tile roofing.

Metal roofs

Metal is an excellent option for homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance roofing solution. Metals used for roofing include steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. They offer superior protection against fire as well as harsh weather conditions like wind and hail.

While metal roofs can be more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles, they are well worth the investment for their longevity. Additionally, metal roofs are eco-friendly since they are 100% recyclable.

Another benefit of metal roofing is its energy efficiency. Metal roofs can help keep your home cooler by reflecting sunlight.

Slate

Slate roofing is a premium and highly durable roofing option that offers a long-lasting and elegant solution for homes. Slate roofing is made from natural stone and has a distinct and beautiful appearance that adds value and curb appeal to any property.

Slate roofing resists moisture. For that reason, it is an excellent choice for areas with heavy rainfall or snow. It is a non-combustible material, so it's fire-resistant. Additionally, slate roofing is environmentally friendly as it can be recycled and reused once it reaches the end of its lifespan.

However, slate is one of the most expensive roofing materials and requires professional installation. The installation process is complicated and requires specialized tools and expertise.

Wood shingles and shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are roofing materials made from natural wood. Since they are machine-cut, they have a precise and uniform appearance. They are thinner and have a smoother surface than wood shakes.

On the other hand, wood shakes are hand-split and have a more rustic and irregular appearance. They are thicker and have a rougher texture than wood shingles. Both materials offer a natural and warm look that can enhance your home's curb appeal.

One of the benefits of wood shingles and shakes is their excellent insulation properties. They can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Keep in mind that wood shingles and shakes require regular maintenance to prevent rot, mold, and insect infestations. They are also more prone to fire damage compared to other roofing materials.

Tiles

Tile roofing is a popular option for homeowners due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. One of the biggest advantages of tile roofing is its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Whether you live in an area with heavy rain, strong winds, or hail, tile roofing can hold up against the elements.

Tiles can be made from either clay or concrete and come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors. This variety allows homeowners to choose a tile that complements their home's architectural style and design. From traditional barrel tiles to flat tiles, there are many options available to suit your preferences.

Tile roofs are relatively heavy and require a strong support structure. This can add to the installation cost since additional framing and support may be necessary. Additionally, tile roofing is usually more expensive than roofing materials like asphalt or metal. Despite the higher cost, many homeowners opt for tile roofing due to its long-lasting quality and great looks.

Roofing Supply

When it comes to choosing a roofing supply company, there are several factors to consider before making your decision. One of the most important factors is pricing. You will want to find a company that offers competitive pricing for the materials you need without sacrificing quality.

Speaking of quality, you will also want to consider the quality of materials that the company offers. Make sure that the company you choose sources its materials from reputable manufacturers and that it stands behind its products. Roof shingles come with a standard limited lifetime warranty with a timeline that varies by manufacturer. 

Another important consideration is the company's reputation in the industry. You can research online reviews, talk to other contractors, or ask the company for references to get a sense of their reputation. A company with a great track record is more likely to provide excellent customer service and stand behind its products. Your roofer should offer a workmanship warranty that covers any problems related to poor installation. These warranties can start at two years of coverage and last up to about 25 years.