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Types of roofs – what are the differences?

Not only the choice of technology in which the house is built matters! Also, the right roof is a basic element of designing and building a house. The roof not only protects against weather conditions, but also affects the aesthetics of the building and its functionality. We invite you to review the different types of roofs, their structures and the materials they can be made of!

 

Table of contents

Types of roofs by shape

Gable roofs

A gable roof is one of the most common types of roofs, especially in single-family housing. It consists of two slopes with the same angle of inclination, which meet at the highest point of the roof, forming a ridge. This type of roof is characterized by a simple structure, easy drainage of rainwater and good ventilation of the attic space. It is relatively cheap to build and maintain, making it a popular choice among investors.

 

Hipped roofs

One of the popular types of roofs are also hip roofs. They are more complicated to construct than gable roofs, which increases their construction costs. However, they offer better wind resistance and more efficient rainwater drainage. They are often chosen for larger homes and residences due to their sleek appearance. Hipped roofs are divided into:

 

Mansard roofs

The mansard roof, also known as the broken roof, reaching the French Baroque, is characterized by two parts of the slope with different angles of inclination – the upper one with a smaller slope and the lower one with a larger slope. Such a structure allows you to create a spacious attic. Mansard roofs are more complicated and more expensive to make, but they offer additional space that can be used as additional rooms or utility rooms.

 

Flat roofs

Flat roofs, as the name suggests, have a slight angle of inclination, which makes them practically horizontal. They are popular in modern construction due to the possibility of using the roof space, e.g. for a terrace or garden. Flat-roof homes are cheaper to build, but they require effective waterproofing and a drainage system to avoid moisture problems.

Are you interested in the topic of vegetation on the roof? Then read the article about green roofs in prefabricated construction.

 

Monopitch roofs

And at the end of the list of roof types, the mono-pitched roof should also be mentioned. Also known as monopitch, a roof consists of a single slope that slopes in one direction. It is a simple and economical structure, ideal for buildings with a rectangular floor plan. These roofs are easy to make and work well in modern architecture. Their simplicity allows for easy installation of solar panels and ventilation systems.

 

Types of roofs

 

Learn about the types of roof structures

The roof structure depends on the selected type and materials. The most common structures are rafter, purlin-tie truss, collar beam and rafter-collar beam trusses. The rafter truss is the simplest and used for roofs with a smaller span. The purlin-tie structure, on the other hand, allows the construction of larger roofs.

 

Roofing materials

The choice of roofing material depends on the roof structure, climate and budget. Popular materials include ceramic tiles, metal roofing tiles, heat-welded roofing felt, bitumen shingles and natural coverings such as reeds or wooden shingles. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into account when making a decision.

 

How to choose the right type of roof? Summary

Choosing the right roof depends on many factors, such as the architectural style of the building, budget, climatic conditions, and personal preferences. The most popular types of roofs due to their shape include:

Gable and hipped roofs are most commonly found in single-family housing, while flat roofs are gaining popularity in modern architecture. Whatever you choose, it is essential that the structure and materials are adapted to the specific conditions, which will ensure that the roof will last and function for many years.

Remember, however, that when planning the construction or renovation of a roof, it is worth consulting professionals who will help you choose the best solutions, according to your individual needs and requirements.