On the one hand, the roof of a house is a protective element for the building and its inhabitants. On the other hand, it shapes the appearance of the house and represents an important cost factor in construction. Below we compare the most popular roof shapes in Germany and tell you what you should consider when deciding on a roof shape:
THE CLASSIC, THE TIBONE ROOF
The gable roof, also known as gable roof, is the most common roof type in Germany. With its two parallel and sloping roof surfaces that meet at the upper edge, the so-called roof ridge, it practically corresponds to the original shape of the roof of a house. Rainwater is directed towards the gutter on both sides of a gable roof, i.e. towards the lower edge of the roof.
The construction of a gable roof is relatively simple. This is why the construction costs of a gable roof are lower than other types of roofs and the maintenance required is limited. Especially the attic can be used as a living space under a gable roof. However, in addition to the windows in the gable walls, additional roof windows are necessary so that it is not too dark in the attic.
Dormer windows to increase living space under pitched roofs can also be easily installed later on gable roofs. Depending on the orientation, a gable roof can be used well for a photovoltaic or solar system.
WEATHER RESISTANT AND PRESENTATIVE, THE POST ROOF
The hipped roof has sloping roof surfaces on all four sides of the house. This means that it offers optimal and complete protection from the elements. The two main parallel surfaces of the roof are trapezoidal and meet at the roof ridge, like a gable roof. The two smaller areas of the roof are triangular. A well-covered hipped roof has a representative appearance and is suitable for detached houses.
The construction of a hipped roof is more complex and therefore more expensive than other types of roofs. However, it is particularly stable and withstands higher snow and wind loads, which is why it is built more often on the coast and in the mountains.
The hipped roof also offers plenty of space for photovoltaic or solar systems. In contrast, the attic under the hipped roof can only be used to a limited extent as a living space due to the surrounding sloping ceilings.
FOR A MEDITERRANEAN FLAIR, THE ROOF TENT
In the tent roof the four inclined surfaces of the roof meet like a pyramid only in the upper part, so unlike the hip roof there is no roof ridge and all the roof surfaces are triangular. In both types of roofs, however, rainwater drains into the surrounding gutter on all sides of the house.
Tent roofs are very popular in Mediterranean areas and therefore give every home a Mediterranean flair. In this sense, the tent roof is predestined for the two-story city villa with not too large a footprint and as square a shape as possible.
The construction of a tent roof is less complex and less expensive than a hipped roof. However, it is not particularly suitable for higher snow loads. As a rule, the attic under the roof of a tent is not used as a living space. This creates an air cushion and optimal insulation for the living floor below.
The roof of a tent offers less space for installing a photovoltaic or solar system.
MODERN AND VERSATILE, THE FLAT ROOF
The flat roof is a characteristic element of Bauhaus architecture and represents modern life. By eliminating sloping ceilings, a fully usable living space is created under the roof. Furthermore, the roof surface can be used for greenery or as a roof terrace.
Although theoretically the flat roof is the simplest roof form, in practice the construction places high demands on the quality of construction work. Since rainwater does not drain away easily despite a normal and minimal roof slope, roof waterproofing must be carried out with the utmost care. Even the slightest impurity can subsequently cause serious water damage. That’s why a flat roof requires regular maintenance and has a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs.
To use solar energy, additional supports must be installed on the roof.
THE MODERN ALTERNATIVE, THE SMALL ROOF
Like the flat roof, the gable roof also has only one roof surface. However, it is not flat, but rather tilted to the side like a desk. Years ago it was still an exotic phenomenon, but now the gable roof attracts attention and can be seen more often in German houses. The asymmetry of its shape makes it a modern alternative to the flat roof.
Technically, a pitched roof is a half-pitch roof where rainwater only flows down one side of the gutter. The simple structure requires only little space and is therefore relatively economical. Since the roof only has one slope, the living space under a single-pitch roof can be used well. However, the attic heats up quickly.
A gable roof, if aligned and pitched correctly, offers the best conditions for installing a large photovoltaic or solar system.
DECISION CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING THE SHAPE OF THE ROOF
Given the variety of possible roof shapes, how should you decide? In many cases, existing building codes make the decision for you. Because not all roof shapes can be made everywhere. And sometimes the regulations get to the point that not only the shape of the roof is specified, but also the angle of its inclination. This should create or maintain a uniform appearance in the residential area in question. So, before deciding on the shape of the roof, check what freedom the applicable building regulations leave you with.
However, if it is possible to determine the shape of the roof yourself, costs, appearance and practical considerations play a decisive role. For example, if you need as much space as possible for a photovoltaic system, it is better to choose a gable roof. In houses with a gable roof, the easiest way to expand the initial living space is to subsequently install a dormer window.
As is known, when it comes to optics, tastes are different. However, it is important to consider whether you want to consciously adapt the shape of the roof to neighboring buildings or whether you want to expressly make an architectural statement.
Finally, costs should not be ignored when choosing the type of roof. If you want to build as cheaply as possible, opt for a gable or gable roof without dormers. To make your decision easier, your nearest construction partner will be happy to present you with plans for your individually designed dream house with different roof shapes and explain the resulting price differences.
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