One of the most important factors to consider when planning a roof replacement is the right style to go with the rest of your home’s exterior. After all, your roof makes up 40% of your home’s appearance, so choosing the ideal style can improve its overall curb appeal. Not only that, but the right style can also make your home more energy-efficient and increase the value of your property.
As one of the leading roofing companies in the state, Bone Dry Roofing highlights five common roof styles you should consider for your home.
1. Gable Roof
A gable roof is a pitched triangular roof commonly found in many suburban homes. Thanks to its simple design, this type of roof is affordable and easy to build. It is also extremely versatile and can be built regardless of your choice of roofing materials, from concrete tiles and slate to asphalt shingles and metal. With its triangular shape, a gable roof allows rain, snow, and ice to slide right off, making it a popular choice in areas with significantly cool climates. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not advisable to install a gable roof in areas with high winds as the overhanging eaves can sustain damage.
2. Hip Roof
A hip roof is one of the most popular roof types. It’s very similar to gable roofs, but instead of two sides, a hip roof is composed of slopes on four sides that come together to make a ridge at the top. Since there is an overhanging eave on all four sides, this type of roof provides more shade and is considered to be more stable. You can also add design elements such as front gables to emphasize your porch or crow’s nests to maximize space. A hip roof, however, is costlier than a gable roof since the framing requires more materials to build one.
3. Mansard Roof
A mansard roof, also known as a French roof, is composed of four double-sloped sides that meet to form a low-pitched roof in the middle. This type of roof is highly recommended if you’re looking for ways to increase extra living space. Whether you have flat or curved sloped sides, the lower slope always has a steeper pitch than the upper one. If you want to make the most out of your attic or garret, it’s a good idea to add windows to bring in more natural light. While you can use any roofing material to build your mansard roof, metal types like copper or zinc can help emphasize your style.
4. Gambrel Roof
A gambrel roof is another roof style to consider. Also referred to as a barn roof, a gambrel roof shares a lot of similarities with a mansard roof in that it offers extra storage or living space in the attic or garret. Instead of four sloped sides, however, this roof style has two, which gives it a more triangular shape. A gambrel roof is typically found on Dutch Colonial or Georgian-style homes as well as barn-style homes and farmhouses. If you’re going for a rustic feel, you can never go wrong with a gambrel roof.
5. Combination Roof
If you’re unsure what style your roof should be, a combination roof would be a safe choice. It combines different roof styles and design features. You may opt for a hip roof with a gabled front porch, for instance. By combining different styles, you add architectural interest to your property and blend all the stylistic and functional elements into one. However, keep in mind that combination roofs may require more labor to construct. The ridges and valleys may also need extra maintenance, especially when it comes to waterproofing.
With so many designs and types to choose from, you might be wondering “what style is my roof“? To help you find out the best one for your home, get in touch with Bone Dry Roofing! We are more than happy to assist you in your roof replacement project. Give us a call at 260.267.6189 or fill out our online contact form to request a free quote.
