5 Types Of Roofs Every Property Owner Should Know About.

When I say the term “different types of roofs”. I bet pictures of flat, sloped, shingles or metal roofs must have popped into your mind. You’re correct! But did you know, there are several other ways in which roofs are distinguished too?

The 5 types of roofs are Flat roofs, Low sloped roofs, common sloped roofs, steeply sloped roofs and extremely sloped roofs.

You must have guessed that in this article we will be talking about roof types based on their degree of slope. Along with other unique features. If you are a property owner and wish to know more about your roof this is the article for you!

What Are The 5 Types Of Roofs?

As mentioned above we will be discussing Flat roofs, Low sloped roofs, Common sloped roofs, Steeply sloped roofs and Extremely sloped roofs in great detail below.

Flat Roof.

Flat roofs are one of the most popular and common types of roofs, mainly used in the commercial and industrial sectors. Contrary to common belief, they are not as flat as the name suggests.

Flat roofs actually have a small degree of slope as well. They are known to have a slope of 0/12 to 1/12 with the rafter. Which is negligible as we can walk on these roofs easily. This type of slope is called the roof pitch. However, having a slight slope to the roof is necessary as it helps in letting the water run off.

Flat roofs can be further segregated into different types, depending on the materials used. Usually, materials like EPDM, TPO, asphalt and PVC are used to build a flat roof.

EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. A type of synthetic rubber which is highly durable. Roofs made up of this material are waterproof.

TPO roofs standing for Thermoplastic Polyolefin, is also a type of synthetic rubber used for roofing.

PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) roofs, on the other hand, are a much better option as they provide both water and chemical resistance.

If you are looking for something inexpensive and versatile then a flat roof is the right choice.

Advantages.

• Easy to clean.
• Inexpensive.
• Low Maintenance.
• Durable.

Disadvantages.

• Leaks and Water Ponding may occur.
• Roof penetrations need to be looked after to avoid roofing problems.
• Foot traffic can create unnecessary roofing issues.

Low-Sloped Roof.

A low-sloped roof and a flat roof are more or less similar in terms of their roof pitch. The Pitch of a low-sloped roof ranges from 2/14 to 4/14.

This type of roof is common in row houses and condos as it gives an aesthetic appeal to the home.

Low-sloped roofs can be further segregated into different types based on the materials used.

Just like flat roofs, they are also made up of EPDM, PVC, and TPO. Single-ply and torch systems are also pretty common to build a low-sloped roof.

These roofs are also available in Architectural Sheet Metal (ASM). This includes a wide range of metals you can choose from like zinc, copper, etc.

Advantages.

• Durable.
• The degree of slope is great for Insulation.
• Low Maintenance.
• Affordable.
• Installation of Solar Panels or any other penetrations is easy.

Disadvantages.

• Leaks and ponding make be an issue.
• Debris can gather on the roof.

Common Sloped Roof.

The common sloped roofing system is the most extensively used residential roofing system. Common sloped roofs have a roof pitch ranging from 4/12 to 12/12.

These roofs are very suitable for harsh monsoons and winters. As the slopes enable water and snow to easily slide off the roof. Preventing water ponding and the issues that come along.

Generally, tiles and shingles make the topmost layer of the common sloped roof. Clay tiles and wood shingles are often a good choice. However, cedar shingles take the cake as they are stronger and more durable than wooden or clay shingles.

Advantages.

• The probability of leaks and water damage is minimal.
• Durable.
• Long-lasting with proper maintenance.
• Aesthetic.

Disadvantages.

• Expansive.
• Gutters and drains need to be inspected regularly to clear blockages.

Steep Sloped Roof.

Many homeowners prefer a steeply sloped roof over any other roofing system as it offers plenty of benefits.

Steep-sloped roofs have a roof pitch rating from 12/12 up to and including 21/12. Making it another good option for homes in areas with heavy rainfall or snow.

Asphalt shingles are commonly used over this roof as asphalt is not only durable but also waterproof and long-lasting.

Other than asphalt metal roofing systems are also suitable for steep slopes. They are strong, highly durable, and add an aesthetic look to your roof.

However, some aspects of A.S.M, EPDM, TPO, PVC and Torch-on systems are used. As these are membranes with extra fasteners that prevent slipping.

Steep slopes are good for energy management. Also, steep sloped roofs provide larger attic space.

Advantages.

• Minimum leaks and no water ponding.
• Aesthetic.
• Easy Installation.

Disadvantages.

• Oil canning on metal roofs.
• Impossible to walk on, so maintaining it yourself is impossible.

Extreme Sloped Roof.

As the name suggests, this type of roof is known to have a ‘dramatic pitch’. The pitch ranges from 21/12 to a straight-off perpendicular wall.

This type of roof is seen in regions with extreme climatic conditions and also in mountains. Extreme slopes are made to handle heavy winds and rains easily.

Although, this type of roof is available in different materials including EPDM, TPO and PVC. Still, asphalt shingles, clay and concrete tiles are commonly used in this roof system as well as recommended.

These types of roofs hardly requires maintenance, since the debris rolls off the roofs quickly. Extreme slopes add a unique look to the house.

However, as a result of having a perpendicular wall, this slope will include plenty of extra fasteners to withstand slip, to make it efficient.

Advantages.

• Lightweight.
• Easy to Install.
• Peculiar Roofing system.
• Economic.
• Negligible leaks or water damage.
• Low maintenance.

Disadvantages.

• Not suitable for any weather.
• Limited to a few selected regions with specific climate

Conclusion.

Even though, typically there are only 3 types of roofs of roofing systems; flat roof, sloped roof and steep roof. Technically there are 5. I hope this article has given you an insight into all 5 of them in detail.

If you have any further questions feel free to get in touch with us. Also, if you need a professional roofing team to take a look at your roof contact us TODAY!

Leak-Stop is a one-stop destination to meet your roofing-related requirements. We offer roof repair, replacement, maintenance and inspection services all over GVRD (Greater Vancouver Regional District).

We offer a free inspection to first-time clients. Connect with us TODAY at 1 866 777 0084 for immediate assistance!