10 Types of Roofs for Homes, Commercial Buildings and More

Top down view of luxury houses in the wealthy Bondi district in Sydney, Australia — With so many options for roof materials and styles, where is a homeowner supposed to start? @ Didier Marti / Getty Images

The roof of a house is not just a protective covering; it's a defining element that contributes to the overall aesthetics, functionality and energy efficiency of a structure.

In this guide, we delve into the myriad types of roofs that grace homes and buildings worldwide, exploring various styles, shapes and roofing materials that cater to diverse needs and preferences.

10 Types of Roofs

There are many different roof types to fit homeowners' specific needs and tastes.

1. Hip Roof

Hip roofs slope on all four sides, meeting at a ridge. This design provides stability and excellent resistance to high winds. Hip roofs are common in both residential and commercial buildings.

2. Gable Roof

The gable roof is one of the most common and recognizable roof types. It features two sloping sides that meet at a central ridge, forming a triangular shape. Classic gable roofs are simple and have effective rainwater drainage.

3. Dutch Gable Roof

Combining elements of both gable and hip roofs, the Dutch gable roof features a gable with a small hip at the top. This design provides additional interior space and adds a touch of architectural flair.

4. Mansard Roof

Mansard roofs, also known as French roofs, have two different slopes, one of which is steeper than the other. Often seen in historic buildings, the mansard style allows for maximum use of attic space.

5. Flat Roof

Flat roofs are modern and minimalistic, offering a clean and sleek appearance. While they lack the traditional slope, flat roofs are versatile and work well for recreational spaces, solar panel installations or as part of contemporary architectural designs.

6. Shed Roof

Shed roofs have single-sloping roofs that are ideal for creating additional space or covering an extension. It is simple in design and a popular choice in modern architectural styles.

7. Gambrel Roof

Recognizable by their barnlike appearance, gambrel roofs have two slopes on each side, with the lower slope steeper than the upper one. This barn roof-style design maximizes interior space.

8. Butterfly Roof

Butterfly roofs feature two slopes that meet at the center, creating a V-shape reminiscent of butterfly wings.

9. Dormer Roof

Dormer roofs are structures projecting from a sloping roof, creating additional windows and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the building.

10. Sawtooth Roof

Commonly found in industrial buildings, sawtooth roofs consist of a series of ridges with vertical glass panes. This design maximizes natural light and is energy-efficient.

8 Types of Roofing Materials

Just as there's a variety of roof styles, there are several options for roofing materials.

1. Asphalt Shingles

Widely used because of their affordability, versatility and durability, asphalt shingles come in various styles and colors, making them a popular choice for residential roofing.

2. Concrete Tiles

This roofing material is durable and comes in different shapes and textures. These tiles are resistant to fire and provide excellent insulation, making them suitable for various climates.

3. Metal

Metal roofs are long-lasting and come in various materials, including steel, aluminum and copper, providing a sleek and modern appearance.

4. Wood Shingles

Wood shingles add a natural and rustic charm to a home. They are not as long-lasting as other materials, but homeowners often choose them for their aesthetic appeal and ability to seamlessly blend with the surrounding environment.

5. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are durable and provide excellent thermal insulation, but because they are heavier, they do not work for every style of home. Their distinctive appearance adds character to homes.

6. Membrane Roof

Membrane roofing, such as ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), is a popular choice for flat roofs. It offers waterproofing and is resistant to UV radiation.

7. Composite shingles

Composite shingles combine various materials to provide a cost-effective and durable roofing option. They often mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood or slate.

8. Slate roofs

Slate roofs are not only elegant, they are also fire-resistant and can last for more then a century, making them a premium roofing choice.

3 Energy-efficient Roof Styles

If you aim to have an energy-efficient roof that can save you money on your electricity bill, there are a few options for you.

1. Green Roof

Vegetation covers green roofs, aka vegetated roofs or living roofs. The greenery provides insulation and can reduce energy consumption.

2. Solar Roof

Solar panels integrated into roofing systems harness renewable energy, offering homeowners an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to generate electricity.

3. Clerestory Roof

Clerestory roofs have elevated sections with windows, allowing natural light to flood the interior. They enhance energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.