- Free Estimates
When you look at a home or building, the first thing that often catches your eye is the roof. Beyond adding curb appeal, roofs serve a crucial role in protection, insulation, and energy efficiency. But not all roofs are created equal—there are countless designs, materials, and styles that fit different needs.
So, what are the different types of roofs available today? Let’s explore the options.
✔ A gable roof is a triangular design that is affordable, sheds snow and rain well, but is vulnerable to strong winds.
✔ A hip roof is a four-sided sloping style that is stable in stormy climates but more expensive to build.
✔ A flat roof is a low-slope option that is budget-friendly and versatile for rooftop use but requires careful drainage.
✔ A mansard roof is a French-inspired style that adds attic space and elegance but is costly and prone to leaks.
✔ A gambrel roof is a barn-style design that offers ample storage at a lower cost but struggles in high winds.
✔ A skillion roof is a single-slope modern option that is simple and affordable but limits attic space.
✔ A butterfly roof is an inverted-V design that aids in rainwater collection but comes with high construction costs.
✔ A dome roof is a rounded, durable, and efficient structure that is visually striking but expensive and complex to build.
When exploring different types of roofs, you’ll notice that each design serves both a functional and stylistic purpose. With the U.S. roofing contractors industry projected to reach $76.4 billion by 2025, it’s clear that homeowners and businesses alike are investing heavily in roofing systems.
A gable roof is perhaps the most recognizable roof types. It forms a classic triangular shape with two sloping sides that meet at a ridge.
A hip roof is a roof type that has slopes on all four sides, which meet at the top ridge.
Flat roofs aren’t entirely flat—they have a slight slope to drain water.
Inspired by French architecture, a mansard roof has two slopes on each side: the lower slope is steep, while the upper one is nearly flat.
Commonly seen on barns, gambrel roofs have two slopes per side, with the lower slope being steeper.
A skillion roof has a single slope and often gives a modern, minimalist look.
Named for its resemblance to butterfly wings, this roof type has two slopes dipping inward toward the center.
A dome roof features a rounded, circular shape often seen in grand structures.
The shape of the roof is just one factor. Choosing the right material is just as important for durability and aesthetics, especially considering that an estimated 5 million new roofs are installed across the U.S. each year. Here are the most common materials used:
The best roof depends on your needs and location. Metal roofs are excellent for durability, slate is unmatched in longevity, and asphalt shingles are the most practical and affordable for most homeowners.
Metal roofing offers the best balance of affordability and long lifespan, lasting 50 years or more while being less expensive than slate or clay tiles.
Most homes in the U.S. have asphalt shingle roofs because they are affordable, versatile, and available in many styles and colors.
Late fall and early winter are often the cheapest times to replace a roof, as demand is lower and contractors may offer discounts during slower seasons.
Most asphalt shingle roofs should be replaced after 20–25 years, but the exact timing depends on the material, maintenance, and exposure to weather.
Roofs are one of the most important parts of any home or business, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. That’s where we come in. At Roofing Experts of Hyde Park, we believe every roof deserves the highest level of attention. Each component of your roofing system is just as important as the whole, and our licensed roofers in Hyde Park, NY, work together to deliver results that last.
