Top 5 Most Common Roof Types
With so many different types of roofs on the market, it’s normal for anyone in SoCal to be overwhelmed. Are asphalt shingles better? Or is the extra cost for a metal roof worth it? As a matter of fact, what are the most common roof types in the US?
Undoubtedly, the most common roof type is asphalt shingles, with 75%-80% of houses having this type. However, a few roofing types, like metal roofs, are getting increasingly popular with homeowners. In terms of shape, the most common roofs are gable roofs and flat roofs.
So, in this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about the most common roof types in the US, especially in SoCal. We’ll also check out which roofs tend to last the longest while also going through the most expensive ones.
What Are the Different Types of Roofs
There are many different types of roofs that are divided based on their material or design. When it comes to design, it comes down to what you like more; some folks prefer gabled roofs over flat ones, while others want pyramid-shaped ones. But, they ultimately come down to two main types: sloped and flat ones.
As the name suggests, sloped roofs have a significant pitch, creating a slope. These are the most common roofs in houses you’ll find all over the US. Their shape allows water to flow downward, preventing it from stagnating and destroying the integral parts of the roof.
Right below, we’ll cover a few of the most common roof shapes while also taking another look at flat roofs.
The 5 Most Common Roofing Types
Even though there are several roofing types, we think that the 5 below are the most common ones in SoCal and the US as a whole.
Gabled Roof
Do you remember the first house you ever drew? It most likely had a gabled roof. These are very simple in terms of their design; we’d go as far as to say that they’re just a triangle on top of your house. But that’s what makes them really easy to install, and they can be made of almost any material on the market.
Plus, gabled roofs come in a few variations, in the form of Dutch and clipped gabled roofs. These add a few extra details by combining the original simple design with other roof types, like hip roofs.
Flat Roof
Flat roofs are generally used in commercial buildings (where silicone coatings are a must), but there are houses in SoCal that go for an EPDM flat roof. While they offer a unique look to your house, you’ll have to deal with leaks if you don’t properly maintain them.
Hip Roof
Hip roofs are what we like to call a 3D version of a gabled roof. They have 4 connecting slopes, which allow for much better water and snow runoff. Plus, you can install a variety of roofing materials on them.
Shed Roof
Shed roofs are very similar to flat roofs design-wise; they just have an incline. These are more common in modern houses and are a great affordable option, especially if you plan to install skylights.
Gambrel Roof
The last roof type that we commonly encounter is gambrel roofs. They’re often considered a more design-esque type to the gabled roof and a practical one at that. However, one issue with these is that they can’t handle heavy loads of snow. But that shouldn’t be too much of a problem if you’re in SoCal.
What Type of Roof Lasts the Longest
Generally, the shape of a roof isn’t a factor in how long it lasts. We could argue that sloped roofs last shorter than flat roofs since most of them are made from asphalt shingles. But, it all comes down to the roofing material you choose.
When it comes to longevity, considering that the required maintenance occurs, nothing can beat a slate roof. These can last for over a century, with only clay tiles coming close to that under the right circumstances.
What Type of Roof Is Most Expensive
Slate roofs are the most expensive, which is fair, considering they’re the longest-lasting ones. The only type that comes close to these is the brand-new solar roofs, which last for much less but can cost even more than a slate roof.
Remember, though, that the actual cost of a roof depends on how big it is. So, if your metal roof is more expensive than your neighbor’s slate one, you’ve probably got a bigger one.
We’ll Take Care of Your Roof in Southern California
These were just a few of the different types of roofs in the US. Keep in mind that a roof's actual cost and longevity are based on several factors, from the roof’s size to how well it’s maintained. But if you want to install a new roof in Southern California, look no further than us!
At Roofing Wise, we pride ourselves on providing the best roofing options and maintenance. Call us now at (833) 315-7663 for a free estimate!