What Is an Arched Roof?

Types

• An arched roof is a roof with a curvature, such as a dome shape or an arc. It's possible to build a curved roof from different materials, including stone, timber wood, glass, corrugated steel and brick. Some arched roofs are really based on an illusion of curvature, such as the arched roof in which the posts are different heights and the beams are custom-fitted to these posts.

Roof Kits

• Add an arch roof to a home by purchasing a roof premade from a manufacturer specializing in materials like timber, steel or glass. If the walls of the structure are already built, a prefabricated steel roofing system can be manufactured to your measurements and installed by a crane. The steel roof is a green building design because it is easy to recycle steel from waste such as outdated automobiles. A prefab steel roof with an arch is easy to install because it does not need a support structure or welding. It is also very resistant to wind and snow.

Arched Entrance

• You can use an arched roof over the home's main entrance to create a visual break from a sloped roof design. The arch might just be a small section of roof over the foyer. You can also echo the arch concept with an arched window over a rectangular front door or a rounded arch door. This roofing idea has a lot of visual appeal but requires special coordination between architect and builder. Consider this option as a custom design if you building a custom home. An alternative is to find a builder with an arched roof already in his standard model home.

Arched Greenhouse

• An arched roof is useful in greenhouse buildings. If your home has a typical roof-line, then the arched roof on the greenhouse provides a visual contrast. One design, an arched roof made of aluminum framing that attaches to the side of the home, will provide more sunlight than a wooden design that leans against the side of the home. Another option is a detached greenhouse that represents an inverted U shape.