When it is time to replace your roof it’s one of the biggest home improvement jobs you’ll ever do, so you want to make sure it’s done right. There are many roofing types to choose from, and hip roofs are two of the most common choices in the US. So, which one is right for you?
What is Gable Roofing?
A gable roof is one that is sloped on two sides and are sometimes called peaked or pitched roofs. They’re instantly recognizable, thanks to their triangular shape. This particular roof shapes comes with a number of benefits.
Gable Roof Pros:
To start, thanks to the peaked design of a gable roof, you don’t need to worry about snow piling up on your roof. If snow sits on your roof and accumulates for too long, several serious issues can arise. With the slant of the gable roof you won’t see this happening because eventually, the snow will just slide off.
This goes for water as well. Water is the number one enemy of your roof and if it is allowed to collect on your roof, it creates moisture that in turn leads to the growth of mold and mildew. This can cause rot which may lead to an early end to the life of your roof. You want a roof that repels water as much as possible, and it will run down a gable roof when it rains, heading right into the gutters. Of course, with any roof, you need to keep your gutters clear to ensure this happens.
Another benefit of a gable roof is the amount of space it gives you in your attic. Having the large, peaked roof gives you a lot more vertical space which is ideal for using to create another room in your home. Higher ceilings are crucial for good attic conversions, and even if you’re not creating an extra living space, having that additional room for storage is a big plus.
It’s also worth noting that because of the simple design of gables roofs, they’re typically much easier to design and build onto your home. This usually makes building them much less expensive overall.
Finally, gable roofs can be covered in a wide variety of materials. You can use asphalt shingles, , metal, clay, terracotta, or concrete tile. The simplicity of the gable roof’s design makes them easy to use any kind of tile on without issue.
Gable Roof Cons:
There are a few features of gable roofing that you’ll need to consider carefully, before move forward and get one on your home.
In high wind areas, a gable roof can be much more susceptible to damage. If they’re not constructed properly, the wind may be able to get underneath the eaves and pull at the roof. High winds can also lead to materials peeling off of the roof. At AllPoint we ensure all of our roof projects are properly constructed, and that there are adequate supports underneath to stop any issues.
What is Hip Roofing?
Another popular roofing option is hip roofing. These roofs are slanted equally on all four sides, and they come together at a point at the top to form the ridge.
Hip Roofing Pros:
Much like gable roofing, hip roofs allow for water and snow to run down them due to their sloped design. If you keep your roof and the guttering well maintained, you’ll never have to worry about water damage in your roof.
Hip roofs are also very stable thanks to their design. The inward slope is what makes the roof so sturdy, which in turns reduces the likelihood of serious damage during storms and high winds. As with any roof, we highly recommended that you do still check it after any storm has passed, and if you see any damage to call the experts at AllPoint for an assessment.
If you are looking to add extra living space, you can add a dormer crow’s nest to create an extra room.
Hip Roofing Cons:
The biggest drawback of a hip roof is usually its price. It is often the more expensive option to build than other roofing types, as it has a more complex design. Because there’s more to the roof, you will in turn need more building materials too, which can add to costs. At AllPoint we work closely with you to determine the right roof design for your budget.
With a hip roof, there are more joints and seams that you need to be aware of, and these need to be sealed and flashed properly, or they can be a potential source of leaks. Checking the flashing after heavy storms is a must, and in severe weather there is a chance it can it can be pulled off with enough force.
Which Roofing Type Is Right for You?
Now that you know the difference between the two most popular roofing options, you need to decide which roof you want to put on your home. As with most home improvement projects, it comes down to personal choice. There are several factors you’ll want to keep in mind:
• Price: Cost will be a big factor in which roof style you choose. What’s the cost of your preferred roofing option? Is it within your budget or do you need to expand your options?
• Style: Do you like the look of the gable or hip roof? If there’s a style that appeals to you more, and works with your budget, it makes sense to choose something you’ll be happy with for years to come.
• Practicality: Regardless of style, you’ll need to be able to take good care of your roof. Are there any weak points in your preferred roofing style? For example, if you live in a very rainy area, is it prone to collecting water, leading to leaks?
We work closely with you to choose a roof that fits all your criteria, and that is just right for your home and family.
At AllPoint we are here to help you determine which style will suit your home, needs, and budget. With the right roof, your home will be protected from the elements for a long time to come.
