When you’re house hunting, one of the first features to catch your eye might be the roof. But do you know what you’re looking at? After all, multiple styles of roof are popular in American architecture.
A roof over our head is a major pschological and financial investment. When you’re buying a property, the inspection will give you insights into the condition of the roof. It’s an important insight as leaks can cause significant damage and a hefty repair bill will likely accompany the purchase if it’s in poor condition.
Below are some of the most common roofing styles you’ll see around the neighborhoods of America to give you a little more appreciation of what an asset a great roof can be.
Gable – The most common style in America with two sloping panels that join at the apex, forming an A-shape. It’s the most economical option for a roof. With the right property, you can put an extra bedroom beneath where the gables meet.
Flat – Oddly, a flat roof is not flat but gives the appearance of being so. This style is especially popular in homes built in the late 60s and 70s. They usually have a small curb with drainage holes so rainwater can escape. It’s a solid solution for homes with large roofing areas.
Shed – A popular solution for contemporary homes, a Shed roof has a slope in one direction. Its simplicity is the attraction, and it’s also economical to construct compared with more complex structures.
Mansard – Mansard roofs are most recognizable in Victorian era houses and add a sizable amount of living spaces in homes. They have two slopes on all four sides, with the top slope being less steep than the bottom one. While being extremely efficient, Mansard roofs can’t withstand large amounts of snow which may be a consideration.
Hip – All four sides of the roof slope downwards from the peak in a hip roof. They are popular on houses in the suburbs, because they are easy to build but they can require a lot more materials than other roofs and don’t make great attic spaces. They can also be hard to ventilate.
Gambrel – This is the classic roof with the ever-popular barn-style architecture.
Originating from the Netherlands, this roof style is susceptible to high winds and doesn’t have the resilience of a gable roof. Asphalt and slate are popular choices for shingles.