The roof has been since the beginning of mankind. One of the basic needs of human life is shelter and protection from the elements of this world. For this reason man has made roofing from available resources such as sod, tree branches and leaves through the years. These exteriors provided good insulation, but were not waterproof. As man became civilized they began to use clay roofing. Researches have shown that clay roof tile was first ever used in China almost 5,000 years ago. Between 4,000-5,000 years ago flat earthenware roof tiles were used in Greece and Babylon. The Romans brought the change and introduced the variations of Greek clay tiles to England. Afterwards around 735 AD thatched roofing was used. Then, 300 years later wood shingles were developed. In the 19th century industrial production of clay roof tiles began. 100 years later, concrete roof tiles were introduced.
The first green roof system was introduced by Germany in 1970. In 19th century asphalt was also available and became the most popular home exterior product. Today many wonderful exterior shapes are also available as we will introduce below.
Gable:
Gable roofing is also known as peaked or pitched roofing and is triangular in shape. These exteriors can be covered with asphalt shingles, metal and concrete tiles. Gable styles are easy to construct. They can shed water and snow easily and provide good space for ventilation. They are however problematic in strong winds and hurricanes.
Hip:
Hip exteriors have all sides equal and come together on top to form a ridge. They can be constructed with shingles, metal or tiles. This style is more stable compared to a gable roof. Hip roofing is excellent in the areas of high wind and snow. Improper installation in the hip style can easily lead to roof leaks.
Mansard:
Mansard or French roofing is a four sided roof with a double slope on each side. These roofing provides more living space and can also be used as garret. Due to the low pitched portion these exteriors are not suitable for areas heavy in rain or snow.
Gambrel:
Like mansard, gambrel roofing also has slopes. The only difference is that the mansard has four sides while the gambrel has two sides. This style also provides extra space for attics or loft but they are not suitable for snowy areas.
Flat :
Exteriors with no pitch are known as flat roofing. Flat exteriors are used for apartment buildings, industrial or commercial areas. Waterproof materials with no seams is used for flat roofs. They are easier to construct than most roofing styles.
Dome:
This inverted bowl shape roof can add an aesthetic feature to any home, but are expensive.
Bonnet roof:
Similar to a hip roof, the difference is that the two slides slope at an angle. The purpose of this is to cover the outdoor porch area. It is more difficult to build.
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