5 Different Types of Roofing Structure in the UK
In the UK, roof shapes and types vary. You can search for a list of roof types, but the most common types are classified only in two: the flat roof and the pitched type. These varying styles can be classified further. We only discuss here the most common, and the other types are derived or designed based on the main two types.
Flat roof and pitched type explained
A flat roof is not totally the plane-type roof that you would expect at all. It is built and designed with a little angle or sloped not greater than 15 degrees. If a flat roof is not sloped, rainwater would not be able to drain to collection points.
Most urban houses are adopting the flat roofing system. The covering material is usually made of EPDM. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, which is a highly durable roof membrane made of synthetic rubber.
The great advantage of flat roofing is its resiliency against a strong wind.
The pitched type or slope roof has an angle of more than 15 degrees. In the UK, most pitched roofs of conventional homes have a 40 to 50 degrees slope. A very steep angle would go about 70 degrees. In areas that are frequented by snow, the pitched roof is preferred to prevent the snow from building up and would drain fast. However, to protect against strong winds, low pitched roofs are built.
The 5 major roof types
1. Gambrel—More like resembling a Dutch roof or a barn, a gambrel roof is a two-sided symmetrical type. On each side are two slopes, the lower lope having a steep angle, and the upper slope is shallow.
2. Mansard—Often confused with gambrel, the mansard roof type also has a double pitch. In contrast to the gambrel, the mansard has four sides, but similar on having both a steep and lower slopes. Mansard roofs are more commonly called French roofs because the shape took the name of Francois Mansart, a French architect.
3. Gable—The most popular and typical roof type in the cold climate regions is the gable roof. Forming the inverted V shape, the gable roof has steep angles but can slope to at least 15 degrees. The peak or the highest edge where the horizontal planes meet is called a gable. Georgian-type homes use gabled roofs. With a slope steep enough to let rainwater run through, the gable is the best against wind and snow.
4. Hip—If you can imagine what a pyramid looks like, you are thinking about a hip roof. The hip has four equal sides which meet at the top, forming the ridge. Having no vertical ends, the hip roof also looks like a pavilion. The aerodynamic feature of the hip roof makes it more formidable and good protection against wind and snow.
5. Shed—a mono-pitched roof, the shed type requires only one gutter. The shed type is the simplest and the easiest to build among roof projects. Also called lean-to roof, or pent roof, the shed type has a single slope and roof surface.
All roof types are primarily to keep you warm and safe from any environmental hazard. As part of a building envelope, roofing is very crucial in any construction as the integrity of the whole shelter will be compromised of the roof materials are not up to standards. More importantly, a roof should have proper insulation to keep the temperature inside and outside of the building controlled.
Architects and roofers have a better understanding of the most appropriate kind of roofing should be installed over your home or building. Their creative and aesthetic wisdom can show innovativeness on the perfect roof you need while not compromising material quality, costs, and human safety.
We replace, overhaul, or install roofs that come along with new construction, our works at Birmingham Roofers has been recognized in our 20 years of service in the industry. Our goal is not just to offer you a covering that can be appealing on the outside but underneath as well—this includes sheathing, insulation, underlay, and more.
If you are looking for a variety of roofing designs, our expert builders offer you the type of roofs that match your budget and style. Call one of our roofers today, and we will provide you with a free assessment of the roofing styles available in your area.
