20 Latest Roofing Designs and Ideas

Despite the name, these roofs aren't completely level and utilize gutters, scuppers and drains. A flat roof can provide a modern architectural touch to many of today's new homes as well as additions such as sunrooms. 

A classic and classy choice, the term 'gable' refers to the geometrically sound triangle that is formed when the two pitches of a roof meet. Gable roofs utilize almost every type of material and are found everywhere from low-slope ranches to much steeper A-frames. One of the only downsides to the gable is their vulnerability of damage from strong winds. 

A combination of the best of the gable –- plenty of available sunlight and usable attic space -- and hipped –- better severe weather performance -- styles, the gablet or Dutch gable is a popular choice due to the above as well as the vast range of materials and unique looks that it can exhibit. 

These roofs are high performers, providing effective insulation on every side of the house due to four slopes instead of the two found on gables. They also stand up much better to high winds. Hipped roofs take a bit more time and effort to construct. 

If the gable and hipped styles appeal but you don't love the gablet, look to this style as it uses a combination of the two. It is usually seen on two-story houses. 

This is a very popular -- and unusual looking -- style in New England. It is used on houses that have one floor in back and two in front. Saltbox homes boast superior performance in weather with great drainage qualities due to one roof slope ending nearly at ground level. 

Very similar to the saltbox style, the interestingly named catslide is usually used only on additions. This type of roof extends beyond the eaves and serves to provide more depth at the expense of height. 

This is more a roof feature than a full-on roof style. Dormers are windows protruding out from a roof. They can be hipped or gabled and just for eye-candy or can actually create usable space. A usable dormer can serve as a comfortable reading or sunning nook. 

Made up of only one slope, shed roofs provide a unique look with plenty of natural light potential and are gaining in popularity across the country. All roofing materials are viable with shed roofs. 

Primarily for home additions or garages, this style closely parallels the shed roof style. The top of the lean-to's slope usually feeds into the side of another building. 

A French import that you either love or hate, the mansard can create extra space with its multiple slopes but can be a serious framing headache. Metal is the standard for this roof. 

Matching the mansard but for its two extra slopes, the gambrel is sometimes called a barn roof due to the easy resemblance. Exhibiting a minimalist and open style, this type of roof usually requires metal roofing material to ameliorate maintenance issues. 

Combining aspects of the gambrel with the mansard, the rainbow alleviates the weight of snow for barns and garages. Metal is often used. 

Thinking of adding vaulted ceilings and enjoying some serious natural light? This style –- similar to a mansard –- can provide these luxurious features while also allowing for a seamless, roofed porch. 

Two sloped sides meet in the center with two slopes extending outwards, the M-shape is considered a 'double gable'. Repeatable for nearly any size building, the M-shaped style can be vulnerable to snow and water build-up in the center. 

A bold style that might remind sensitive viewers of a butterfly in mid-flight, this style is similar to an M-shaped, but in which the outward sides are jettisoned. Besides the unique aesthetic, this style allows for abundant natural light. The downside is that extra attention and care must be used in designing for sufficient water drainage. 

Mostly popular with gazebos or other recreational buildings, this roof type is charming but carries higher material and construction costs. Any type of shingle or roofing material can be used. 

Similar to a gable but with slopes that meet at different heights, this roof style allows for superior natural light possibilities. The way it is constructed means that windows are allowed to be seriously tall and highly placed, providing privacy as well as tons of free light and heat in winter. 

Eco-friendly and quite chic at the moment, the saw-tooth style was once upon a time considered only fit for industrial buildings. Saw-tooth roofs have a profile resembling a saw blade and can boast an abundance of windows and the potential for plenty of stylish vaulted ceilings. 

The roof styles listed above are 20 of the currently most popular design styles. Believe it or not, there are many more. This last item demonstrates that. Many homeowners choose to apply a combination of styles to best fit their property, climate, budget and aesthetic considerations. 

Our recommendation for an excellent roofing company to do business with is Gold Roofing. They are courteous, utterly professional, dependable and consistently maintain only the highest-quality of workmanship. 

Pictures are worth a thousand words, it is said. For pictures and more info on the roof types mentioned here, check out this useful site.