There was a time when roofing options were limited. The types, designs, and materials have become more diverse, giving homeowners more options when it comes to addressing their stylistic needs, the structural requirements of their home, and protection against the weather. If you’re considering a home improvement project, the following types of roofing may be worth considering:
- Gable: A simple inverted V style, a gable roof is less suited for locations with high wind.
- Winged gable: A variation of the gable roof with an outward extending structure from the roof peak.
- Hip: Consisting of trusses and rafters, a hip style roof features four sloping sides with no vertical elements.
- Dutch hip: A hip roof design with small gables at the ends, which may provide ventilation for the home.
- Gambrel: Most often associated with barns, a gambrel roof allows for ample attic space or extra rooms.
- Folded plate: Constructed like several small side-by-side gable roofs.
- A-frame: Comprises the roof and walls of the structure, such as a home, cottage, or church.
Roofing Materials
The most common roofing material in the United States is asphalt. Low in upfront costs, asphalt shingles can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. Options include impact-resistant shingles for hail prone areas. Other considerations are those that have passed ASTM D3161, Class F or ASTM D7158, Class H wind tests.
Roofing materials aren’t limited to asphalt. You may also consider:
- Shake shingles: Wood shingles that overlap, creating a weather-proof roof with a rustic look.
- Slate shingles: Made of sedimentary rock, slate shingles can be installed as thin sheets and last 100 years or more.
- Rubber slate: Natural yet versatile, rubber slate can be cut to create designs suited for Victorian homes.
- Metal: Steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, or tin may be used for a metal roofing system with shingles or vertical panels.
- Clay/concrete tile: Suited for warm, dry climates, tile often requires additional support for its weight, but can resist high winds.
- Solar tiles: Solar collectors integrated with shingles can generate up to 1 kilowatt of energy for every 100 square feet on sunny days.
- Green roofs: A roof covered in plants is appealing, but requires soil, drainage, a vapor barrier, waterproofing, and other components; it can reduce water runoff and improve insulation and air quality
Roof pitch, which can include flat, low, or steep sloped roofs, determines the types of materials that can be used. It can also impact drainage, durability, and the amount of attic space you have. Pitch can introduce construction and maintenance challenges as well. Pitch is one of many important decisions to make when having a new roof installed.
Roof Installation with Window World of Boston
When deciding on the best roof for your home improvement project, there are many factors to consider. The main variables include your house, the climate you live in, and your budget. All our roofing solutions include waterproofing that underlays the roof structure. Intake and exhaust vents are built into the roofing system to protect your home from heat and moisture buildup, mold infestation, and ice damming as well as improve airflow.
At Window World of Boston, we carefully install top-of-the-line shingles and specialize in installing the best quality window, siding, and door products on the market as well. We are committed to ensuring your home remains protected and energy efficient during any season. To learn more about our roofing options, their benefits, and the styles and colors available, contact our Woburn, Pemborke, or Shrewsbury offices today.
