Roof Structures, Framing and Styles A Small Guide of Roofing Read this small guide for roof structures, framing and different roofing styles to get better understanding of roofing before you choose any style.

2015

Neha Almeida Roofing Inc.

1/19/2015

Roof Roofs are broadly classified into three categories-

1. Flat Roofs - Flat roofs are generally used in plain areas where climate is moderate

and rainfall is low.

2. Pitched Roofs – Pitched roofs are used where rainfall is heavy.

3. Shells and Folded Plates Roofs – Shell and folded plates roofs are used for larger

spaces where large area needed to be covered. Ex- factories, companies etc.

Pitched roofs further have three basic structures. Here, we will discuss about these

structures.

Roof Structure Pitched roofs are used where rainfall is heavy. The slope of it must be more than 10

degree, most preferably, 45 to 60 degree. There are basically three types of pitched

roof structures –

1. Single Roofs

2. Double Roofs

3. Trussed Roofs

Single Roofs

The single roofs are used when the span is less than 5m. The rafters for such roofs don’t

require any transitional support.

The singles roofs are further divided into four categories –

Lean to roof

Coupled roof

Coupled close roof

Collar beam roof

Lean To Roof

Coupled Close Roof

Coupled Roof

Collar Beam Roof

Singles Roof Structures

Double Roofs

The Double roofs are used when the span exceeds 5 m and single roofs become more

expensive. For double roofs, intermediate support is provided to the rafters.

Trussed Roofs

This roof is used when the span is more, a frame work of slender members are used to

carry sloping roofs.

Roof Framing Roof framing is the most difficult part of roofing as it includes countless complicated

angles inserted into roof. To understand roof framing, the roofing contractors uses

special terms like ridge board, rafter etc. The framing square consists of two legs –

short leg and long leg. The short leg is called the tongue and long leg is called the

blade/body.

Example of Basic Gable Roof Framing

Roof Styles The major purpose of a roof is protecting us from the uncertain weather changes with

minimum maintenance. A roof must be strong that can survive even in heavy rainfall,

snow fall and wind loads.

The next concern is the appearance of roof. A home looks fabulous if its roof is well

designed and has some style. The roof styles create effective and beautiful

architectural effects. The home owner should hire a local roofing contractor that fully understands the

architectural styles of roof and capable to implement it in various styles.

Different Roof Styles

One can use any of these roofing styles. You can use many styles on single roof too. At

the end, the home owner decides what structure and style he/she would prefer for

their dream home.