When you choose Shencorp Total Roofing Services, you get durable and energy-efficient commercial protective roof coatings for a price you’ll love. Serving Winchester, Charlottesville, Waynesboro, Richmond, Virginia and surrounding areas, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality coatings to protect your roof from wear and tear. We’re proud to provide this proactive and preventative service throughout the trans-Atlantic area in Virginia.
A roof does more than just protect you from the elements and provide your home with eye-catching curb appeal. Depending on your roof design, it can also provide shade, create attic space, and even affect the heating and cooling within your home.
While it’s important that all roofs meet building codes, they’re not all built the same. For example, some roof types are better suited for climates with severe weather than others. Some roof types even have higher maintenance needs.
3 Common Roof Types
Understanding the components of your roof and the design type can help you diagnose issues and better maintain its structure. Whether you’re looking to build or simply maintain your current roof, understanding the pros and cons of these common roof types will help you take better care of your home.
1. Gable Roof
There are many pros to gable roofing, making it one of the most common roof types. There are four main types of gable roofs: side gable, cross gable, and dutch gable.
What is it: A roof with two sloping sides
Materials: Can be done with most roofing materials, but asphalt shingles are most common
Maintenance: Needs regular inspections and gutter cleanings to ensure proper drainage
Pros:
- Holds up well in heavy rain and snow
- Can be combined with other roof types for a unique design
- Affordable and usually simple to build
Cons:
- Prone to damage in high winds
- Not recommended in areas that experience hurricanes
2. Hip Roof
A hip roof is another popular type of roofing style. Many architects and home builders choose to combine a hip roof with other roof style types to create a unique design.
What is it: A four-sided roof. All sides meet at a peak or ridge and slant downward.
Materials: Can be done with most roofing materials, but asphalt, metal, clay, and concrete are the most common
Maintenance: Greatly benefits from regular maintenance to prevent minor issues from becoming major
Pros:
- Holds up well in heavy wind, rain, and snow
- Can be combined with other roof types for a unique design
- Can provide shade
Cons:
- More expensive and complicated to build compared to other options
3. Jerkinhead Roof (aka Clipped Gable)
Jerkinhead roofs are an older roofing style that is not as common in newer builds. However, jerkinhead roofs do create a one-of-a-kind look that is sure to be the eye-catcher of your neighborhood.
What is it: A unique combination of hip and gable style roofing
Materials: Can be done with most roofing materials, but asphalt shingles are most common
Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, but it can be a challenge to find roofing contractors with knowledge of the style
Pros:
- Holds up well in heavy wind, rain, and snow
- Creates a bold look
- Provides ample attic space
Cons:
- Old architectural style so can be hard to replicate
- Complex and costly to build and maintain
- Difficult to ventilate
- Can be expensive to build