Different Types of Roofs, Roof Designs & Roof Materials

Not all roofs are created equal. As the United States offers a variety of climates, some roofs may be more suitable than others. If you’re looking to reduce energy costs, keep your home protected, or boost curb appeal, then it’s important to choose the roof best suited for your needs.

While there are many different types of roofs out there, choosing one may be challenging. In this post, we’ll discuss the various types of roofs to choose from, including what materials are used.

Different Roof Options

Not sure what roof style is right for you? With so many options, it can be overwhelming. Take a look at 13 of the most common roof designs below:

Pyramid Roof

As the name indicates, a pyramid roof looks just like a pyramid! These roofs are typically installed over certain areas of a home or another small building. You may notice a pyramid roof over a garage, guest house, or other small structure.

Mansard Roof

A mansard roof involves four slopes, with two inclines on each side of the home. The lower slopes are often steeper than the top slopes. This is a French-style roofing option that features incredible aesthetics and even more living space!

Gambrel Roof

Gambrel roofs are almost identical to mansard roofs, but feature upright gable ends. These are the triangular areas found below where your roof comes to a point. Gambrel roofs are inspired by the Dutch.

Saltbox Roof

A saltbox roof is another very unique roof design. This roof type features two slopes, with one side being longer than the other. These roofs are often found in homes where there’s a second story on one side. Not only do these roofs look amazing, but the design also helps to increase wind resistance.

Bonnet Roof

Bonnet roofs are similar to pyramid roofs. However, this style involves multiple slopes, usually eight in total. The roof features two sections with four slopes on each; one is located on the top of the roof, while the other is at the bottom. The top slopes are steeper than the bottom section. As the name suggests, this roof style looks similar to a bonnet or hat!

Cross Gabled Roof

When seen from the front yard, this roof looks like a triangle. Although there are many varieties, almost all cross-gabled roofs look amazing. This style is especially useful on homes with multiple wings and extensions.

Hip Roof

A hip roof is one of the most common roof designs out there. This style involves four sides that connect to a ridge. The slopes on the front and back are small, while the slopes on the sides are more extensive. These roofs look fantastic, and they also work well in high winds.

Flat Roof

The design of a flat roof is pretty easy to understand. Rather than coming to a point or ridge, a flat roof is entirely flat. This is a popular roof style, and many modern homes today are built with this design.

Sawtooth Roof

A sawtooth roof is one of the most unique roofing styles to consider. While they come in many different shapes and sizes, they all consist of several sections that all come to separate points. These sections are usually shaped like a right triangle.

Skillion Roof

A skillion roof is a style consisting of only one slope. This is a simplistic roof design that is growing in popularity. On many occasions, a skillion roof will cover one area of a home, while another skillion roof covers another section.

Curved Roof

As the name implies, a curved roof is constructed with a curved appearance. There are many different styles used, some with minor curves and others with more prominent curves. These unique roofs offer exceptional aesthetics.

Butterfly Roof

A butterfly roof is one of the most unique styles out there. Resembling a butterfly, these roofs feature slopes that aim downward, which forms a v-shape design. While most homeowners build gradual slopes, some slopes are pretty steep.

Domed Roof

As the name suggests, a domed roof looks just like a dome. These are some of the most beautiful roof designs to consider, and they’re also highly durable. Domed roofs date back several years, and residential domed roofs are now growing in popularity.

Common Roofing Materials

Today, residential applications involve a wide variety of roofing materials. While there are several options, all with different pros and cons, making a decision can be difficult.

Take a look at the common roof materials below, including their advantages and disadvantages:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are extremely common and last for several years. They’re a low-cost, durable roofing option, but they are thinner than other alternatives.

Tile Shingles

If you want to burst curb appeal, tile shingles are a top choice. This roofing material can last for 80 years or more. However, moving forward with a tile roofing contract can be expensive, and these tiles could break over time.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles provide incredible aesthetics. Also, you can choose the type of wood that's best suited for your needs. If you want long-lasting options, redwood or cedar shingles can last around 50 years.

Slate Shingles

Made of sedimentary rock, slate shingles are some of the longest-lasting roof materials in existence, lasting 75 years or longer. 

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

This material consists of different layers of tar, asphalt, or an adhesive with an aggregate. These roofs are common in homes with roof-top decks.

Synthetic Rubber Slate Tiles

Although these roofs give off a natural appearance, the installation can be expensive. However, they can be shaped and formed to fit different roofing shapes.

Green Roofs

Green roofs are by far the most eco-friendly option. They are covered in plants, leading to increased air quality, improve home insulation, and reduce water runoff.

Solar Tiles

Solar tiles are like mini solar panels on your roof! They not only offer protection from the elements, but they also produce energy for your home.

Dealing with hail damage on roof? Need a roof inspection or new roof estimate? Whatever the case may be, Raptor Roofing is here to help. Contact us today to make an appointment!