Modern roof types blend seamlessly with modern architecture. The type of roof and roofing materials you add to your home can make all the difference, both visually and structurally. In order to give your roof and home more personality, you should consider how the peaks and valleys merge together to affect the overall look and function of your home.
You might be looking for new construction inspiration, or you are on the lookout for updates for your existing roof. You should look for the best roof types that will help to upgrade the exterior of your property, add value to your home and weigh in on the best roofing styles that will never get outdated.
There are different roof designs all of which have unique purposes. But when it comes to considering the right roof for your home, keep in mind that not every roofing style is ideal for your climate or the architecture of your home or its position relative to the wind and sunlight. Let’s look at the modern roofing types presently rocking the construction industry. If you need more information feel free to contact a professional roofing company like Fortress Roofing to find out all you need to know.
Modern Roofing Styles
Gable Roof
These are pitched or peaked roofs that are triangular shaped and are what many people envision when they think of a roof design. There are a number of gable styles including the side gable (typical gable roof), cross gable, front gable (often seen at the entrance of the house) and Dutch gable.
You will typically love gable roofs because they have a simple design which makes them easier and less expensive to construct. These roofs can be covered using almost any type of roofing material including asphalt shingles, metal, clay or concrete tiles. Are you from an area with heavy snowfall or rain? Then this is the roof type for you. Its steep pitch easily sheds water and snow. You need to allow for more ventilation and provide more space for an attic or vaulted ceilings.
Gable roofs are not ideal for areas with hurricanes or high winds because they tend to be more steeply pitched with a huge surface overhang compared to other roof types. To ensure that your gable style roof has maximum protection from wind damage, it’s important to choose asphalt shingles because they are guaranteed to withstand 130 mph (ca. 209 kilometers per hour).
Hip Roof
Do you want a rectangular house without two gables? A hip roof would work perfect for your needs. All four sides of a hip roof slant towards the roof edges or walls with fairly subtle roof angles. It provides shade and cover on all sides of your home. There are a number of hip roof styles such as simple hip, pyramid hip, cross hipped and half hipped.
You can cover hip roofs with just about any roofing material such as metal and asphalt shingles. Its risk of severe damage is rather small, since it offers better protection against storms, snow and gusts of wind. However, due to its complex design, it requires more roofing materials proving to be more expensive to construct.
Flat Roof
You can use flat roofs in arid areas. Contrary to general belief, flat roofs have a slight undetectable slope to allow water to run-off and drain. It’s an easy and affordable roofing style you can consider, because it brings a modern look to your home with its clean horizontal lines. The most common roofing materials used on flat roofs are metal sheets, gravel and rolled roofing.
From construction to installation and the materials commonly used for flat roofs, are relatively cheaper. They are also great for adding more living space by incorporating a rooftop garden or a deck on top of your home. On the other hand, flat roofs are more susceptible to water leakage, and are therefore not ideal for rainy or snowy areas.
Modern Roofing Materials
Before you construct your favorite roof style, you would probably like to know what materials you can use to cover it. Not all roofing materials accommodate all roofing designs. Know your best option. Here are some modern materials that are common in the market:
Asphalt Shingles
This roofing material achieves a balance between durability, cost and aesthetic appeal. Usually lasting for 20-30 years, they are easy to install and maintain, and can be reinforced with fiberglass or organic materials without altering their appearance.
You can consider using asphalt shingles because they come in a variety of colors, are easy to source for, and they work well with popular modern architectural designs and roofing styles like gable roofs, hip roofs and flat roofs. This material is perfect for suburban homes.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles add texture to your home and evoke a far-off romantic feeling. They are extremely durable and are often the material of choice in climates that are a lot warmer and dryer. They are less expensive, energy efficient and can protect your home against wildfires due to their non-combustive nature.
They can last for about 40-50 years and lend the perfect finishing touch for your home, making them perfect for a gable roof design. They can, however, be used for other roof styles and shapes like the hip and flat roofs.
Metal Roofing
Since metal roofing comes in a variety of materials including aluminum, copper, stainless steel and zinc, there are plenty of options you can choose from. As you can already tell, metal roofs offer more choices, are malleable, and you can use them to achieve any of your desired roof shapes.
A metal roof is typically resistant to extreme weather conditions. However, it can be quite noisy during stormy weather if not properly fixed. Metal roofs look great as toppings for modern and contemporary structures with gable and hip roofing styles.
Conclusion
Several other roof designs and materials have permeated the modern home construction industry. We have reviewed just a few of them. Regardless of the roofing shape that you go for, get the most modern roof design for your home and be sure to consult with your local roofing expert or company. That way, you will get a roof that withstands the weather and enhances the features you consider vital while giving your home the best look.
