The Different Types of Roofing Systems and Their Benefits

A roof is usually the top most covering of a structure, consisting of all structures and materials required to support it over the property walls or on uprights, giving protection from sunlight, rain, wind, extreme temperature, etc. A roof is often an integral part of the total building envelope. The word ‘roof’ is derived from Latin meaning roof.

A number of techniques are used in roofing construction to give the best protection with the least maintenance. One such technique is known as flat roofing. This type of roofing is usually made of plywood sheets, tiles, or shingles, with the ridges being bonded to the underlying structure. These techniques can be used for both single skinned roofs and multi-sheltered ones such as gabled roofs (with two or more skins).

Single slope roofs are those where there is only one slope on the roof surface. This would be a low grade normal roof. A high quality single slope roof should have a number of sloped roofs that form a slightly steep pitch. The pitch can range anywhere between four to six inches. Single slope roofs can also be known as gable roofs. Gable roofs are usually made of materials such as slate, tile or wood, with a number of sloped roofs forming a steep pitch along the side.

Gable roofs provide excellent waterproofing properties because they allow water to drain off straight down the slope. Flat roofs, on the other hand, cannot take this situation, as water will naturally pool at the edges of the flat roofing material. A flat roofing system is usually made of tile or slate, with the flat roofs being bonded to the underlying structure.

All roof types have different ventilation requirements. Gable roofs usually allow good amounts of ventilation due to the slope at the edge of the roof. However, attic vents need to be planned in such a way as to allow for any amount of attic ventilation. It is not advisable to place vents on flat roofs; therefore it is advisable to build an attic or crawl space to accommodate any excess ventilation requirements.

Gable and flat roofs have their own advantages and disadvantages. Gable and flat roofs are often the most expensive type of roofing system to install, but these types of roofs are also more difficult to construct. Flat roofs have a higher load bearing capacity than the other two types of roofing systems. Gable and earth roofing felt are used for both of these reasons, as they provide a very strong roofing system with loads bearing capacities of up to 400lbs per square foot, ensuring the protection of your home from the elements.