Roof Design Options

Flat Roof

• The flat roof is the most economical style of roofing because of its simple construction, which uses rafters to support the roof. The flat roof, which has poor drainage, is widely used in places where there is little rain. Some commercial buildings use the flat roof to support heating equipment.

Shed Roof

• The shed roof is similar to a flat roof except that it is slanted to provide better drainage. Similar to a flat roof, the shed roof is economical to build because of its simplicity and minimal material. The shed roof can be constructed at any pitch, constrained only by roofing materials.

Gable Roof

• The gable roof consists of two shed roofs that meet at an intersection. The gable roof is widely used in houses and provides a traditional look. The gable roof can be constructed at any pitch, as long as the roofing material can support it.

A-frame Roof

• The A-frame roof is similar to a gable roof, except that the A-frame roof also forms the walls of the upper level of a house or building. The A-frame roof looks like the letter A, hence its name.

Hip Roof

• The hip roof is similar to a gable roof, except that it has four sides instead of two. The intersection of the roofs is called "hip." This is an expensive style of roofing because it uses more materials and labor to construct. However, this roof style provides good drainage.