Types of Roofs on Homes: Find What Works Best for You

Picking the right roof for your house might seem simple, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Your roof style can affect everything from how your home handles weather to how energy-efficient it is. Whether it’s a classic gable or a sleek flat roof, here’s a rundown of popular roof types to help you decide what fits best.

1. Gable Roof: The Classic Look

A gable roof is that simple triangle shape you see on lots of homes. With two sloping sides, it forms a peak in the middle, like an “A.” Gable roofs shed water and snow easily, so they’re great in areas that see a lot of rain or snow. Plus, they’re easy to build, which makes them budget-friendly.

Good for: All kinds of weather
Pros: Simple design, sheds water well, affordable
Cons: Can catch the wind in stormy areas

Gable roofs work well with many materials, like asphalt shingles and metal roofing. They’re a top pick for homeowners who want a classic look that’s easy to maintain.

2. Hip Roof: Strong and Sturdy

A hip roof slopes down on all four sides, making it really stable—perfect for windy spots. Its shape means it’s less likely to lift or get damaged, so it’s common in areas with rough weather.

Good for: Windy or stormy climates
Pros: Strong, wind-resistant
Cons: Can be pricier since it uses more materials

You’ll often see hip roofs with asphalt shingles, tiles, or even metal, giving homes a classic, durable look.

3. Flat Roof: Modern and Multi-Functional

A flat roof isn’t completely flat—it has a slight slope so water can drain. Flat roofs are popular on commercial buildings but also work well on modern homes. They’re great if you want a rooftop patio or space for solar panels.

Good for: Modern homes or dry areas
Pros: Easy to build, can be used as a rooftop patio
Cons: Not ideal for places with heavy rain or snow

Flat roofs are usually made from metal roofing or single-ply materials, which are low-maintenance and last a long time with regular check-ups.

4. Mansard Roof: Stylish and Spacious

A mansard roof has four sides, each with two slopes. It’s often seen on historic or stylish homes and gives you extra attic space. This style has that classic, French-inspired look.

Good for: Extra attic room, classic look
Pros: Adds attic space, unique design
Cons: Expensive and needs more materials

If you’re going for that timeless, elegant vibe, mansard roofs pair well with architectural shingles or even slate for a polished appearance.

5. Shed Roof: Simple and Modern

A shed roof has a single slope, making it easy to build and great for modern designs. It’s often used on home additions or garages but can look sleek on its own.

Good for: Small buildings, garages, and additions
Pros: Simple and affordable, drains water easily
Cons: Not ideal for large homes

You’ll find shed roofs with materials like metal roofing or asphalt shingles, making them an easy and practical option for smaller buildings or unique home designs.

6. Gambrel Roof: Classic and Country-Style

The gambrel roof has two different slopes on each side – the lower slope is steeper. Often used on barns, it’s also seen on homes looking for that country-style touch.

Good for: Rustic, barn-style homes
Pros: Adds attic space, unique design
Cons: Not great for windy areas

Gambrel roofs are popular for their charming look, and they pair well with metal roofing or asphalt shingles if you want to add a bit of rural character to your home.

7. Dutch Gable Roof: The Best of Both Worlds

The Dutch gable combines a gable roof with a hip roof. It’s common on homes that want both extra attic space and a unique style.

Good for: Extra attic room, curb appeal
Pros: Adds attic space, interesting look
Cons: Takes more materials and time to build

Dutch gables look great with architectural shingles or metal roofing and give homes a bit more personality.

Choosing Your Roofing Material

Your roof’s material is as important as its shape. Here are some common picks:

These are affordable, easy to install, and come in a bunch of colors. Asphalt shingles are a common choice for gable and hip roofs.

Known for durability, metal roofing lasts a long time and can handle most weather. Though it’s pricier, it’s worth it for low maintenance.

These are a step up from regular asphalt shingles with added depth and durability. They look great on gable, hip, and mansard roofs.

Eco-Friendly Roofs: Going Green

If you’re interested in a roof that’s easy on the environment, there are some great eco-friendly options to consider. Green roofs, for example, are flat roofs covered with plants, which help insulate the home and reduce rain runoff. Solar roofs are another popular choice, turning sunlight into energy for your home. These eco-friendly roofs look unique and can also lower your energy bills over time.

Good for: Reducing energy costs, environmentally conscious homeowners
Pros: Insulates your home, helps the environment
Cons: Requires extra maintenance, initial cost can be high

Choosing the Right Roof for Your Climate

The climate in your area plays a big role in deciding what kind of roof works best. Here’s how different roof types perform in various weather conditions:

If you live somewhere with high temperatures and lots of sun, a flat roof with a reflective coating can help keep your home cool. Metal roofing is also a great choice for hot climates since it reflects sunlight and doesn’t absorb as much heat as other materials.

Hip roofs and gable roofs are ideal in places with a lot of rain. Their slopes help water run off quickly, so it doesn’t pool and cause leaks. Choosing a material like asphalt shingles or metal roofing that sheds water well is key in these regions.

Roofs with a low profile, like hip roofs, are better at withstanding strong winds. The four-sided slope creates stability, which makes it less likely to lift during a storm. Consider shingles or tiles that are rated for high winds if you’re in an area prone to hurricanes or heavy storms.

Gable roofs are great for snowy climates because their steep slopes allow snow to slide off instead of piling up. Metal roofing is also good for cold areas since snow slides off easily, reducing the weight on your roof.

FAQs

What’s the best roof for snow?

Gable roofs are a good choice for snowy areas since the slope lets snow slide off easily. Metal roofing also works well as snow doesn’t stick much to it.

Can you explain what a beamed ceiling is?

Are flat roofs good in rainy places?

Can a mansard roof give me more attic space?

Yes, mansard roofs often come with a large attic area that can be used for extra storage or even living space.

What’s a shed roof best for?

Shed roofs are easy to build and are popular on smaller structures or modern-style homes.

Wrapping It Up: Finding the Best Roof Style

Each roof type has its own look and benefits. From gable to flat to mansard, there’s a style that fits every home. And don’t forget – choosing the right material, like metal roofing or asphalt shingles, is just as important. The right roof style and material will keep your home safe, stylish, and sturdy for years.

Ready to choose the best roof for your home? Work with the best custom home builder in Cottage Grove, Deforest, Windsor, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, and the surrounding areas of Greater Madison, WI. Contact us today at (608) 839-0620 to start your custom home building project!