Take a tour around the city of Denver CO and pay close attention to residential properties. You will realize that most houses have pitched roof types. This means that if you want to build a new home, it will make more sense to get a pitched roof… although nothing should stop you from installing a flat roofing system!
Read: Flat Roof House Design: Is It Right for Your Denver Property?
Roper Roofing is here to guide you through the process of choosing from the different types of pitched roof construction. Specifically, we’ll be focusing on two things: (1) various roof shapes and (2) factors that influence your final decision.
What Are the Different Pitched Roof Types?
Before we proceed, you should know that all roofing systems have a specific incline. No roof is entirely flat. But as a homeowner who plans to get a new roof, you also need to pick your best roof shape. Here are five options.
1. Shed style roof
Many people make the wrong assumption that a shed roof only applies to garden sheds. This roof shape is noticeable for its single slope. Among the various pitched roof types, a shed type offers multiple advantages in terms of practicality.
Roofing contractors find a shed roof easy to construct. Because the project entails fewer materials, you can expect this to cost less. Shed roofs also offer a wide surface to accommodate solar panels.
Related: Denver CO Homeowners, Know These 8 Shed Roof Advantages and Disadvantages
2. Gambrel style roof
Gambrel roofs have two slopes on their sides. They offer more options for homeowners to utilize an attic.
The common name for this roof is the “Dutch roof.” One notices the Colonial era feel of this roof shape. Most of the time, you’ll find such pitched roof types used on barn houses.
But many homeowners actually appreciate this style mainly because it provides a huge loft space for an additional bedroom or attic. When it comes to durability, a gambrel style roof withstands strong winds. Lastly, it’s aesthetically pleasing.
3. Butterfly style roof
What is a butterfly roof and why would you consider it a good pitched roof style? Aside from it being a modern roof design, it would help capture rainfall — thanks to the two slopes that face downwards. Homeowners can use the water for various purposes. Such roofing design will be able to protect your home from the damaging effects of high winds and storms.
Perhaps the only downside to this roof shape is that it’s complex and costly to build. Other pitched roof names for the butterfly style roof are “V-shaped roof” and “London roof.”
4. Gable style roof
Want to simplify your choice or go for the classic style? Choose a gable style roof. While many pitched roof types promote efficient water drainage and attic space, a gable style roof is the simplest to work on. If you want to maximize the beauty of your property, you’ll be glad to know that gable roofs accommodate all types of roofing materials.
Roof shingles make an attractive choice for gable roofs. You have different shingle options, ranging from asphalt to metal to slate. Here at Roper Roofing, we install various shingle pitched roof types.
5. Combination style roof
This is what a combination roof looks like. Unique, isn’t it?
A combination roof is a pitched roof that features multiple roofing styles. Your reason to choose this shape is to boost your property’s exterior appeal. You can mix and match a flat roof with a gable roof, or combine two open gable roofs.
Sometimes, a homeowner decides to attach a new roof to an existing roof to build an additional room.
How to Choose from Various Pitched Roof Types: 4 Considerations
One can’t just look at this list of pitched roof construction types and say, “I want that one!” Before you agree with a specific roof shape, think through the following aspects.
1. Aesthetics
We all have our tastes when it comes to how our home looks. Choosing a specific pitched roof design will help you achieve the home of your dreams. For example, if you want a more historical feel, you’d go for a gambrel roof. If you want something that’s modern, a butterfly roof would be perfect.
2. Cost
Complicated roofing styles require a bigger budget.
Got a huge budget to build a new roof? If that’s the case, you have more flexibility with the types of roof construction. A combination roof will obviously cost more than a simple gable roof. If you go after affordability, a shed or skillion roof is your best friend. Speaking of cost, your choice of roofing materials also affect your final roofing estimate. Consider striking a balance between your roof style and material so that you stay on budget.
3. Attic space
Would you like an attic space for your Denver CO home? Some people like to have attics so they can convert these empty spaces into a small bedroom. Attics also make unique workspaces (if you work from home). You can also insulate the floor of an attic to preserve indoor temperature. With that, decide on a roof shape that accommodates attic spaces. Good options would be gable and mansard. To eliminate attic space, go for a shed roof.
Related: Do You Need Roofing Insulation?
4. Maintenance
Before you proceed with a roofing style, think about its maintenance needs. Will the roof be prone to water drainage problems and leaks? We’ve found combination roofs to be susceptible to leaks due to multiple valley areas.
However, if you value design over ease of maintenance, then choose this roof style. On the other hand, houses with shed roofs are less likely to encounter leaks because of the single slope.
You Need a Good Roofing Contractor to Transform Your Idea Into a Reality
We’ve covered much of what you should know about pitched roof types. Now it’s your turn to decide. At the end of the day, what you need is a proven Denver CO roofing company to help you through the process.
Roper Roofing is a roofing contractor from Denver. We have decades of experience in building roofs and installing quality materials. We’ll discuss the best roofing types with you and keep your goals in mind. We invite you to check our completed projects so that you have a solid idea of what you’ll be getting.
Thank you for reading this guide! We look forward to working with you! Please get in touch with us at 720-307-7143 for your needs.