Unusual roof. Types of roofs - how to choose a reliable and economical design? Types of roofs of private houses by design and geometric shapes
For any home, the roof plays an important role - it is the main protection against the effects of high and low temperatures, ultraviolet radiation and precipitation. High-quality execution of the main task will be ensured by competent design, including the choice of design and materials depending on climatic conditions and the general style of the building. Naturally, every homeowner wants to receive from the roof not only significant practical benefits, but also an aesthetically pleasing completion of the facade design, complementing it and adding individuality to its appearance.
Flat roof
This type of roof can hardly be called traditional, but Lately it is a resounding success. First of all, such popularity is due to the emergence of such stylistic trends as modernism, minimalism and hi-tech. Currents are famous for their adherence to clear, straight lines. Such roofs also owe their popularity to new high-quality materials that can guarantee high levels of protection from water and heat retention.
A flat coating will complete the laconic design and will look strict and impressive, but in addition to this obvious advantage, several others can be highlighted:
— Useful space for organization appears sports ground, winter garden, or a recreation area equipped with a barbecue, light furniture, pergola or other canopy;
— The space is also used for technological devices: an air conditioner, a water collection system, an antenna and even a solar panel;
— A flat roof is easier to care for, and maintenance of all devices and objects located on it is simplified;
— Laying this roof takes less time and effort than other analogues.
Mansard roof
The attic roof will not only complement and decorate the architectural design of the house, but will also add square meters to the living space. This is a very convenient solution, because such a building is cheaper and easier than building another floor. At the same time, the allocated space can be safely used to create a beautiful cozy bedroom or living room.
If you're standing on the threshold overhaul roof, which includes complete replacement materials, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity, as the costs will compensate themselves in full:
- You get additional thermal insulation - the living space will retain heat much better than an empty attic or an ordinary roof. At the same time, care should be taken to ensure proper ventilation to avoid excessive moisture accumulation;
— Modern furniture is quite mobile and laconic in order to use the resulting meters as rationally as possible. In general, to decorate an attic interior, turn to styles such as Scandinavian, minimalism or rustic - within these trends you will find many variations for arranging a comfortable and functional room;
— Extensive window openings will provide the room with abundant daylight.
With all the undeniable advantages, an attic roof requires that you pay special attention to the condition of the load-bearing walls, since they are not always able to withstand such a load.
Shed roof
The design of a pitched roof is a plane resting on walls of different heights. The difference in the length of the load-bearing walls actually determines the level of slope of the slope.
The smooth planes represent a distinctive modern aesthetic that adds character and rigor to the entire building with its clear forms. On the other hand, if the project turns out to have a fairly extensive roof, you should immediately take into account that for effective precipitation removal a fairly sharp angle of inclination is necessary. Also, during the installation process, difficulties may arise with providing thermal insulation.
Among the main advantages of a pitched roof, the following positions should be identified:
— The roof will create an original space for design delights on the ceiling inside the building;
- The small weight allows you to choose this type of roof for a house without a foundation or with its lightweight variations - screw or columnar;
- Conduct renovation work does not involve any particular difficulties, since it is safe to be at the top of the structure;
— Installation does not require high financial costs, complex calculations and high professional skills from the builder.
Gable roof
This option is familiar to everyone, and it is the one that young children often depict in their drawings. Structurally, a gable roof consists of equal-sized slopes that rest on the walls and meet each other in the middle.
Symmetry gives rise to the classic geometry of lines and the harmony of combining practicality with visual appeal. The space under the covering forms an attic, where it is convenient to store things and install a ventilation system. The gable roof structure provides a natural system for draining snow and water. Constructing such protection from weather conditions is inexpensive and quite easy.
As for the negative aspects of the project, the degree of roof slope will depend on the choice building material. The angle can be at least 22 degrees if you choose slate or tiles; the metal version of the roof requires about 14 degrees, and the corrugated sheet requires 12 degrees.
An effective modification of a gable roof is multi-level, creating broken straight lines. It can add originality to the architecture of the house, but also requires accurate calculations and a professional approach.
Hip roof
A hip roof is, in fact, a hipped roof on which the fronts are replaced by triangular slopes (hips). This device makes the structure very resistant to strong winds and heavy rainfall, and, importantly, adds originality to the architectural design.
The rigidity of the structure allows it to practically not change over time, and also to create overhangs on each side, which additionally protect from adverse weather conditions. There are also varieties of hip roofs - half-hip and hipped. The slopes of the latter are connected at one point; it is perfect for square and rectangular buildings.
Some difficulties you may encounter:
— The complexity of the roof requires painstaking calculations and measurements, long and difficult installation;
— High price;
— The attic space is small, and therefore not always suitable for creating an attic;
— If there is an attic space, its windows will directly interact with precipitation, which can lead to moisture leaking inside. This nuisance can be mitigated by covering the openings before the rain, but this is not always convenient.
Multi-gable roof
It is constructed in the form of a set of polygons combining several gable parts. This results in a non-trivial and attractive roof. In its design and execution, the roof is quite complex.
The building for the installation of this top must have a multi-level or square shape. A multi-gable roof completes the houses' intricate layouts, which also include an attic.
The main advantages include the following properties:
— Strength and durability. The rafter system is perfectly balanced, allowing it to withstand heavy loads;
— Possibility to organize free space or attic;
— Pleasant and interesting appearance along with practicality. Sharp slopes minimize impact external environment, water and snow do not stagnate on the roof surface.
In general, the disadvantages are that construction will require serious professional experience, special attention to detail, as well as serious financial costs for materials.
Roofing material
After selecting a suitable design for your future roof, you need to decide on the materials that will form its basis. Among the wide selection provided by the modern construction market, we have collected the most popular of them:
Ceramic tiles. The material has proven itself to be the best in any climatic conditions. The roof for a private house made of tiles has a beautiful shape and texture, is reliable during use, does not require frequent maintenance and is incredibly durable. If the installation of the roof was done efficiently, then the service life can be more than a hundred years.
Porous clay reduces thermal conductivity, but this very property can lead to the absorption of water, which will destroy it when it freezes. To avoid such troubles, cover the ceramic roof with glaze, so the quality indicators will not decrease even in the most severe climatic conditions.
Metal tiles- this is one of the most modern options for roof cladding with a slope of 12-15 degrees. A beautiful imitation of a clay analogue is reliable and wear-resistant, is not afraid of snow or sunlight, and therefore is incredibly popular.
Metal sheeting also a fairly common material for roofing work. Saturated color palette will give the appearance of the house an elegant and attractive appearance. Quality characteristics, functionality, as well as low prices allow the material to be used for a variety of finishing works: wall cladding, production of fences and gates. Thus, there is a good opportunity to implement a single architectural concept.
Bituminous slate, also known as ondulin, is made from cellulose fibers and impregnated with bitumen, resins, pigments and mineral additives. Ondulin is environmentally friendly, inexpensive, practically does not absorb moisture, and is resistant to alkalis and acids. In addition, the material has high sound insulation, has a wide range of color variations and is easy to install, and can also be used on curved surfaces.
At the same time, the bitumen coating fades in the sun and is characterized by an increased fire hazard. Summer heat and winter frost cause difficulties when moving on the roof. But it is fair to note that many of the highest quality modifications smooth out or even completely eliminate these shortcomings.
And finally, let's highlight sheets of tempered glass or double glazing for the manufacture of a separate part of the roof. For example, a canopy over a veranda, greenhouse, or even a kitchen or living room. The idea is certainly interesting, since the coating will become a real highlight and decorate both the exterior of the house and, of course, the space under the roof. Glass can withstand high loads from moisture, snow and wind.
More and more people are striving to make their secret dream come true - to get out of multi-storey urban buildings and into their own home. Acquired suburban area is quickly turning into a construction site. And, in accordance with the natural mentality of the majority Russian men, work on the construction of a new home is very often carried out on our own. Moreover, many of the amateur craftsmen do not have much experience in this area at all, they learn literally on the go, looking for useful and reliable information in available sources, including on the pages Internet resources dedicated to construction. We hope that our portal will provide them with serious assistance in this matter.
So, after the walls of the house have been raised on a reliable foundation, it is necessary, without delaying this, to move on to creating a roof and laying the roof covering. There can be many options here. And one of the most commonly used is the gable roof structure. It is not as complicated in calculations and installation as some others, that is, even a novice builder should be able to handle it. Therefore, the topic of this publication is the construction of the roof of a private house with your own hands using the example of a gable rafter system With
It should be noted right away that the article does not provide a ready-made “recipe”. The goal is to demonstrate the principles of calculating a gable roof and the sequence of its construction. And a master with the appropriate skills should already adapt the recommendations received to his own specific construction conditions.
General information about the design of gable roofs
The basic design principle of a gable roof is probably clear from its name. The roof of such a roof forms two planes converging along the ridge line and resting on the long walls of the house (along the eaves lines). At the end sides, the roof is limited by vertical gable walls. As a rule, both along the eaves and along the gable, the roofing covering is slightly extended outside, outside the building in plan, so that overhangs are formed that protect the walls from direct exposure to precipitation.
Most often, slopes have a symmetrical shape. Sometimes they resort to asymmetry, when the slopes are located under different angles to the horizon and, accordingly, differ in their length. But these are isolated cases, and will not be considered within the scope of this publication.
The height of the roof at the ridge, that is, the steepness of the slopes, can be different - it all depends on the planned use of the attic space, the architectural ideas of the owners, and the type of roofing used.
Gable roofs have proven their high reliability. And the relative simplicity of the design is what makes them so popular among private developers.
The external resemblance of the two pitched roofs does not at all mean uniformity in the design of their rafter systems. It is precisely in this matter that there can be significant differences, depending both on the size of the building and on its design features.
Based on the principle of their structure, gable roof truss systems can be divided into two groups:
- If the rafters rest on the external walls of the building and are connected to each other at the ridge node, then such a system is called hanging.
To give additional rigidity to this structure, the rafter legs of each pair are reinforced with horizontal ties (clasps). Vertical racks supported on floor beams, or diagonally installed struts can also be used.
- In the case where the design of the house requires the presence of a permanent wall inside the building, a layered rafter system is often used. The name speaks for itself - the legs “lean” on the racks, which, in turn, rest on a bench laid along the upper end of the capital internal walls. Moreover, this wall can be located either in the center or offset from it. and for large buildings two can be used as supports interior walls. Several examples of layered systems are shown in the illustration below.
- However, a kind of “hybrid” of both systems is often used. The rafters in these cases, even without the presence of an internal partition, also receive support from the central post in the ridge unit, which, in turn, rests on powerful floor beams or on horizontal ties between the rafter legs.
In any of the systems, especially in cases where the rafter legs are of considerable length, additional reinforcement elements are used. This is necessary to eliminate the possibility of the beam sagging or even breaking under the influence of loads. And the loads here will be considerable. First of all, this is static, due to the weight of the rafter system itself, sheathing, roofing and its insulation, if provided for by the project. Plus, there are large variable loads, among which wind and snow come first. Therefore they strive for rafter legs provide the required number of support points to prevent possible deformation.
Some of their reinforcement elements are shown in the design diagrams of the rafter system:
The illustration above shows an example of a layered rafter system:
1 - Mauerlat. Usually this is a beam rigidly fixed to the upper end of the external walls of the building. It serves as a support and basis for securing the lower part of the rafter legs.
2 - Lying down. A beam fixed to the internal partition of a building.
3 - Stand (another name is headstock). Vertical support running from the bed to the ridge girder.
4 - Ridge run. A beam or board connecting the central posts and serving as the basis for securing the upper ends of the rafter legs.
5 - Rafter legs.
6 – Struts. These are additional reinforcement elements with which you can reduce the free span of the rafter leg, that is, create additional support points for it.
7 - Lathing, which must match the selected roofing.
Prices for fastenings for rafters
fastenings for rafters
In hanging-type systems, reinforcement is carried out by installing horizontal ties (pos. 7), which rigidly connect the opposite rafter legs, and thereby reduce the bursting load acting on the walls of the building. There may be several such delays. For example, one is installed at the bottom, closer to the level of the Mauerlat or even almost flush with it. And the second is closer to the ridge unit (it is often also called a crossbar).
If the rafters are long, it may be necessary to use vertical posts (item 3) or diagonal struts (item 6), and often both of these elements in combination. They can be supported by floor beams (item 9), as shown in the illustration.
It should be correctly understood that the diagrams shown are not dogma at all. There are other designs of rafter systems. For example, it is often used to fasten the lower part of the rafter legs not to the Mauerlat, but to the floor beams placed outside the walls of the house. Thus, the necessary
On the roofs of larger houses, more complex designs can be used. For example, the rafters are connected by additional longitudinal girders, which, in turn, rest on vertical posts or struts. But it is hardly wise to take on the creation of such complex systems without having well-established experience in this area. Therefore, we will limit ourselves to considering the construction of gable roofs that are quite simple in design.
Carrying out calculations of gable roof parameters
The construction of a rafter system and the arrangement of a roof based on it should always begin with the necessary calculations. What tasks are set in this case?
- First of all, it is necessary to understand the relationship between the height of the ridge and the steepness of the roof slopes.
- After this, it will be possible to accurately calculate the length of the rafter legs, both “net” and full, that is, taking into account the planned eaves overhangs.
- The length of the rafters and the expected pitch from the installation will make it possible to determine the cross-section of the material suitable for their manufacture, taking into account the expected loads on the roof. Or, conversely, based on the available material, select the optimal step and place additional support points - by installing the reinforcement elements mentioned above.
The listed parameters will allow you to draw up a diagram and drawing of the rafter system as accurately as possible, and correctly position all its elements. Using the existing diagram it will be much easier to calculate how much and what material will be needed for installation.
- Need to find out total area roof slopes. This is necessary to purchase roofing material, hydro- and vapor barrier membranes, and insulation if thermal insulation of the roof is planned. In addition, the area parameter is also important for determining the amount of material for arranging the sheathing for the selected roofing covering.
To make it clearer when explaining the calculation procedure, the main quantities are shown schematically in the illustration below:
D- the width of the house (the size of its gable wall);
VC- the height of the roof at the ridge above the plane of the mauerlat or floor beams, depending on what the lower ends of the rafter legs will be attached to;
A- the angle of steepness of the roof slopes;
WITH- working length of the rafter leg, from the ridge to the mauerlat;
ΔС- lengthening the rafter leg to form the planned eaves overhang;
Sh- step of installation of rafter legs.
Let's begin by considering the issues listed above in order.
The ratio of the steepness of the slopes and the height of the roof ridge
These two quantities are closely interrelated. AND Totheir calculation You can approach it from different angles, taking one or another criterion as the initial one.
- For example, the owners see their house with a high roof, something vaguely reminiscent Gothic style architecture. It is clear that with this approach the height of the roof at the ridge increases sharply and, accordingly, the steepness of the slopes. However, one should not forget that such roofs experience maximum wind loads due to their pronounced “windage”. But the snow will practically not linger on such slopes. So it’s worth initially taking these two factors into account. Perhaps, for an area sheltered from the winds, but with a predominance of snowy winters, this option will generally be the most acceptable.
Steep slopes and a high ridge are pronounced - snow does not stay on such a roof at all, but the impact of the wind becomes maximum But let’s not forget that the longer the rafter legs, the more difficult the system itself will be to install, which will require a lot of reinforcing parts.
- Another consideration for making the roof higher is often the desire to have a functional attic space, even to the point of equipping it as a full-fledged living room.
For an attic room, a broken rafter system is certainly preferable. But if a gable roof is still planned, then a lot of space is consumed by the corner zones along the line connecting the rafters with the mauerlat. We have to increase the steepness of the slopes (see above).
True, there may be an acceptable solution here too. For example, the Mauerlat is not located at the ceiling level, as in the “classic” version, but on the side walls, which are deliberately raised above the ceiling to a certain height. Then, with a great steepness of the slopes, and without particularly complicating the design of the system, Magnon can achieve very spacious attic spaces.
Prices for metal tiles
metal tiles
By the way, this is exactly the option that will be considered below, when the story turns to the installation of the rafter system.
- It happens that the owners of the future home, on the contrary, decide on the minimum roof slope angles. This may be caused by materials-saving structures, lack of need for usable space in the attic, or local conditions - for example, a very windy, but not particularly snowy area.
True, with this approach we must not forget that any roofing has certain lower limits for the steepness of the slopes. For example, if you plan to lay piece tiles, then it is necessary to ensure a slope angle of at least 20, and for some models even 30 degrees. So if the plans already include this or that roofing covering, you should correlate its characteristics with the height and steepness of the roof.
So, how is the calculation carried out? Our constant value is the width of the house along the gable wall ( D). Using a known trigonometric formula, it is easy to find the height ( VC), starting from the planned steepness of the slopes (angle A).
Sun = 0.5 × L × tg a
It is clear that to calculate a symmetrical gable roof, half the width of the building is taken, that is 0.5 ×D.
One more nuance. When calculating using this ratio, the height difference is taken as the difference in the heights of the ridge point and the plane of the mauerlat. That is, it does not always mean an excess over the attic floor - this should be kept in mind.
The mentioned formula is included in the proposed calculator.
Calculator for the ratio of the steepness of the slopes of a gable roof and the height of its ridge
Fashion today dictates the rules in all areas - clothing, shoes, interior and exterior design, garden design. She didn't even go around the roof. More recently, decorative turrets were popular, but now multi-level ones complex designs, under which children's rooms or dressing rooms, gyms, home theaters, billiard rooms, etc. are arranged. But fashion is a capricious and changeable lady. And if you rely entirely on it, you will have to renew the roof of the house every 2-3 years, which not everyone can afford. It’s better to listen to your taste, taking individual stylish fragments as a basis. And in order not to drown in the ocean of diversity, you should familiarize yourself with ready-made projects beautiful roofs private houses.
Roofs for private houses: which one to choose
The appearance of modern roofs is a flight of designer’s imagination and one of the motivators, and not the most important, that determines the roof design for a particular building. The main thing is engineering developments for a specific shape - tasks that a particular roof configuration should perform as best as possible.
An unusual mansard roof with asymmetrical lines will emphasize the refined taste of the owner of the house and will allow you to get additional room under the roof
For example, a flat usable roof and a broken mansard roof have different purposes. The first is suitable for creating a greenhouse on the roof, the second is for having additional living space.
On the flat roof of a private house you can create a beautiful green area
But the main functions for all roofs are the same:
- protecting the building from rain, snow and winds;
- good resistance to mechanical stress and ultraviolet radiation;
- effective self-cleaning;
- environmental friendliness;
- ease of arrangement and repair;
- economy in construction and operation, as well as durability.
Country house for seasonal living with a simple gable roof - classic design never goes out of style
Therefore, you should choose the shape of the roof based on your needs: what you want to get in the end. In addition, you need to take into account the load-bearing load that the roof will exert on the walls and foundation of the house. A complex multi-gable roof, and even covered with natural tiles, will not suit a light frame building, no matter how much one would like it to be so.
Fans of original design build a multi-gable roof for the sake of beauty and the ability to equip several small side attics at once.
Conversely, a simple gable roof covered with ordinary slate will not look good on the intricate facade of a large building.
Even the location of the house plays a significant role when choosing a roof. If the building is located at the very beginning of the site, then it makes no sense to make fashionable slopes almost to the ground. This form requires space, and in cramped conditions it will not play as expected.
A gable roof is simple and reliable, but there are several complex hybrid forms, for example, a half-hip design - when the end slopes do not reach the eaves, and the side slopes are located low to the ground
Why spend money then, when you can choose something simpler and save significantly on construction. By the way, classic gable roofs have not gone out of fashion for centuries. And that means a lot.
Video: unusual roofs of private houses
Beautiful roof design: options
Roofs of houses vary in design and type of covering material.
Flat roofs
In private housing construction, flat roofs are quite rare. The main reason is the large snow load compared to a sloped one, which falls on a flat shape, and low self-cleaning ability. It is believed that with a slope of 0–1°, water will constantly stagnate on the roof and this will sooner or later lead to damage to the roofing. That is, a flat roof requires much more maintenance.
A flat roof combines favorably with overall design and is complemented by various small geometric details
Moreover, such a project cannot be called economical. Rafter system, monolithic floors, insulating materials, arrangement of smoke and ventilation ducts, drainage and drainage - everything must be durable and of high quality.
Minimalism and clear geometric lines produce the effect of stability and solidity
Therefore, a flat roof is usually made when it is planned to be used - for a terrace, greenhouse, sauna or swimming pool, etc. This is where they are indispensable. If not, then it is better to abandon the flat roof.
In a modern individual residential building in the Moscow region, green spaces are located on a flat exploitable roof
A private house with a flat roof is unusual and interesting: an extraordinary roof creates unique style and completes the overall image of the building.
Video: how to make a flat roof usable and how much it will cost
Pitched roofs
The construction of pitched roofs is more expensive for owners of private houses: more roofing is required, and a more powerful supporting structure is needed. However, they are more reliable, do not require frequent maintenance and are very diverse in shape:
- single-pitched;
- gable (straight, sloping roofs or mansard);
- hipped (tent, hip);
- spherical;
- multi-pincer;
- cone-shaped;
- combined, etc.
Video: pitched roof designs for a private house - 10 ideas
Design of houses with a pitched roof
Such roofs are also called mono-pitched. They have one slope, supported by load-bearing walls of different heights, which results in very interesting projects.
The installation of a pitched roof is inexpensive, since the entire installation consists of supporting the sheet on the external walls of the building of different heights
If previously the lot was monoslope roofs - terraces, outbuildings, cellars, today - this is one of the trends of minimalism, which gives the building a futuristic look.
The roof beautifully flows around the building, performing several important functions at once: it creates an unusual design shape for the entire house and delicately hides the second floor
Modern mono-pitch roofs are a whole complex of components and connections that can withstand climatic disasters and protect the building. Therefore, it is increasingly possible to see pitched roofs in private households.
The building attracts attention and captivates the eye beautiful design and skillfully selected cladding colors
In addition to the stylish airy design, pitched roofs are lightweight and inexpensive to install. Anyone with at least a little knowledge of construction can install such a roof, even if they have never done anything like this before. The main thing is to comply with the technology and specifics of their device.
Both edges of the rafter legs have reliable support and belong to the category of layered
The definition of a pitched roof reflects the essence of its design - one pitched plane is formed by a rafter system.
Video: do-it-yourself pitched roof installation
Monosloped roofs, due to their configuration, come in a variety of forms, for example, canopy roofs, which are so loved by the residents of Australia, known for their commitment to all sorts of fashionable manifestations.
Today, Australians, known for their bold fashion legislation, are confidently asking new trend application of canopy roofs in construction
Shed roofs can be attic or non-attic, hemispherical, as well as shed - sawtooth, which rarely, however, can be seen crowning a private house. And completely in vain. Thanks to their design, with skillful approach, you can achieve all the benefits of passive solar heating and good natural light.
The architect Howard Alan got a good result when he transformed the roof of an ordinary Chicago house. The new roof became shed (sawtooth). Tests at the end of construction showed that with an outside temperature of -18.3 °C on a sunny winter day, the internal temperature was about +21.1 °C.
With the transformation of the roof into a shed, the height of the attic spaces increased and their natural ventilation was simplified
Beautiful gable roofs of private houses
Gable roofs are the most popular types of roofs for a number of reasons:
In terms of functionality, gable roofs are in no way inferior to single-pitch roofs; they are just as simple and reliable. They consist of two slopes, which rest, as in a monoslope roof, on load-bearing walls (or post-and-beam support system), but the same height. The slopes are connected by a ridge ridge. The space between them is called the pediment or gable.
Large windows and roofing with window openings create good lighting and look interesting against the background of other buildings
Until recently, the slopes themselves were traditionally the same length. But fashion makes its own adjustments and now they are often made in different sizes, which gives the house a unique appearance.
The gable roof serves as a roof for the house, smoothly transitioning into a summer canopy for a parking lot or a place where you can relax and hide from the sun.
Moreover, a drainage system is not installed under long slopes, since water and melted snow quickly drain from such roofs. On the one hand, this reduces the cost of construction and guarantees a long service life for the roofing covering. But on the other hand, such a roof needs a good drainage system around the entire perimeter of the house so that the foundation does not flood.
Video: roofs of private houses
Types of gable roofs
Gable roofs are unlimited in terms of supporting structure and covering material, so there is plenty of room for designer imagination to run wild here.
The Dormer roof adds a dormer window to the attic, which serves to illuminate and ventilate the attic space, and also improves the appearance of a private home
So-called hybrid forms have appeared - more complex in design, but certainly much more effective. For example, half-hip structures with end slopes that do not reach the eaves.
A half-hip roof is more difficult to install than a regular gable roof, but it looks much more original
The Danish form of a gable roof and the Dutch one are interesting, the difference between them is in the method of cutting the hip - the Danish one offers small gables, and the Dutch one offers regular-sized gables in the form of a trapezoid.
The difference between the Danish and Dutch design lies in the way the hip is cut - from the top or bottom
Such designs have their strengths and weaknesses. The first ones include:
- greater rigidity of the frame due to the corner ribs;
- ability to withstand considerable snow loads;
- good protection of the gables of the house from bad weather and the ability to install a regular window in the attic (attic).
Disadvantages of half-hip roofs:
- the complexity of the design requires accurate calculation of the rafter system;
- greater consumption of lumber and roofing sheets.
Mansard roofs are also a type of gable roof. It would seem that in our time such roofs with broken lines would not surprise anyone. However, newfangled elements make modern mansard roofs not only respectable, solid, but also incredibly attractive and functional. For many, such a roof is a dream, despite the cost of its arrangement.
The rich decoration of the house is emphasized by the unusual roof
The courage of the architects is amazing. To ensure your home retains its individuality, choose unusual shapes and materials that will last for years.
The roof smoothly flows into the walls, creating a solid and complete image of the entire structure
Before installation mansard roof It is imperative to check the condition of the foundation and load-bearing walls to see if they can withstand the additional load.
Beautiful roofs of wooden houses
Frame or wooden houses unlike stone, brick, etc. buildings are lighter and do not need a powerful foundation. This must be taken into account when choosing a roof. In principle, this applies more to the covering material, since the roof can be given any shape. Before this, strengthen the load-bearing walls, strengthen the foundation, install decorative support beams near the house, to which the load from the roof will be transferred, etc. There are a lot of options, but it is still better to choose a lightweight covering material, do not overload the load-bearing structures of the house with natural tiles, For example.
Mainly for wooden buildings use:
- conventional gable roofs;
Wooden walls emphasize the quality of the house
- Saltbox roofs - asymmetrical gable roofs - allow you to expand the house by lowering a long slope onto the elements being added;
Asymmetrical gable roof frame house allows you to transfer the load through a long slope to the completed elements of the house
- mansard roofs in rustic style are a brutal fashionable trend designed specifically for wooden houses - a combination of simplicity and rough natural materials.
The roof made of roofing iron has an interesting shape: a regular gable roof, it unobtrusively changes the angle of the slopes, as if the building merges with the surrounding landscape
Beautiful roofs of complex structures
Recently, roofs of complex shapes have become very popular among private homeowners. This is due to the original look that such roofs give to buildings, as well as the ability to rationally use the space under the roof. This group includes:
- hip roofs;
An additional floor is hidden imperceptibly under the roof, while the building seems compact and coherent
- multi-pincer;
A strong and reliable multi-gable roof goes well with wooden beams and a chimney
- combined from different types;
The noble gray color of the combined roof favorably echoes the milky shade of the walls and decorative elements courtyard
- vaulted roofs, which are often installed on additional buildings;
- diamonds, tents and cones;
- M-shaped roofs - they are rarely used, only in special design solutions when you need to combine 2 buildings under one roof;
Two houses standing close together visually have separate roofs, but in fact they are connected by a common valley, the loads on which are very high
- Butterfly roofs look very tempting, but are complex in design.
The butterfly roof looks very beautiful and unusual, but is impractical due to the price, lack of attic space, and design complexity
Of course, this is an incomplete list of noteworthy roofs for a private home. In the world of construction fashion you can see stunning examples of engineering and design ideas.
In addition to the functional and aesthetic side, it would be good to also consider the practical aspect - the ability to use the roof surface to save energy. Is it possible to install solar panels without compromising appearance - this is by no means an idle question. Energy prices are rising with enviable regularity, so it is not difficult to install alternative energy sources on the roof own home it will be very useful.
Having your own energy sources is always useful, especially with the constant rise in energy prices
Which roof shape to choose is a decision that needs to be carefully considered. View all your favorite versions. Determine what difficulties the construction involves. Understand the operating and repair conditions, as well as what advantages this or that type of roof will provide.
Video: types of roofs - overview of pitched, gable and flat roofs
Which roofing material is more attractive?
The choice of roof covering most often depends on the angle of the roof. Therefore, first you need to choose best option slope of the roof. It is believed that the greatest snow load on the roof occurs when the slopes are sloping at 30°. Therefore, in order for the roof to clean itself well, the angle of inclination must be at least 45°.
However, there is no need to arbitrarily increase the angle of inclination according to the principle “the more, the better.” Not better. Especially in regions with an abundance of gusty winds.
When the slope of the slopes increases by 20–30%, the wind load on such a roof immediately increases 5 times.
But reducing the slope is not an option - the wind can undermine the roof literally from the inside, making its way through unprotected joints of the floors. So you need to choose the shape of the roof, taking into account the climatic conditions of a particular region, having previously calculated the angle of inclination using the formula: the length of the ridge ridge is divided by ½ the width of the house and multiplied by 100. The result obtained will be the desired angle of inclination.
Wind loads depend on the slope of the slopes
The greater the angle of inclination, the higher the cost of constructing the roof. This also needs to be taken into account when choosing a roof.
Video: how to make the right choice of covering material
So, roofing covering - which is better:
- Slate is an inexpensive roofing material. It is used at a slope of 13–60°. With a smaller slope, water will seep in at the joints, rendering the already not very durable coating unusable.
A private house with a slate roof looks very stylish, but the slate covering is highly dependent on the slope of the slopes
- Ceramic tiles are a beautiful and noble covering flooring, which is laid when slopes slope at 30–60°. If the angle of inclination is less, then additional ventilation and waterproofing of the roof is done.
For thousands of years, ceramic tiles have remained one of the most beautiful roofing materials.
- Metal tiles are perhaps the most optimal covering option. It fits almost any roof shape and, moreover, does not have a maximum slope value, and the minimum is only 15°. That's why this roofing material is so popular.
Metal tiles are a material for those who choose stylish solutions for reasonable money
- Bituminous shingles look beautiful on unusually shaped roofs with arched elements and a slope angle of less than 12°. The maximum slope value is not limited.
Bituminous shingles are suitable for roofs of unusual shapes
It is worth highlighting transparent roofs as a separate group - they are incredibly beautiful in appearance, but they will also require a lot of expenses for arrangement.
A transparent roof that allows light and air to pass through will become business card home, will give it fragility, sophistication and uniqueness
And, of course, premium roofs:
Advantages of copper and titanium-zinc roofs:
- prestigious with high aesthetic standards;
- environmentally friendly and plastic, thanks to which such coatings can cover any contours and form the most incredible designs;
- do not require special maintenance or painting;
- are distinguished by natural anti-corrosion protection due to the formation of patina (oxide film);
- lightweight, easy to install - attached to the base using folds rather than nails;
- withstand temperatures without loss of their qualities up to +150 °C;
- tolerate frosts down to -70 °C, therefore they are widely used in northern regions;
- mounted on roofs of any slope;
- durable - service life up to 150 years.
Video: copper roofing - the elite can be seen from afar
It is impossible not to mention the reed covering, which, like copper and titanium, can change color over the years, merging with the landscape.
Reed roofs are becoming more popular every year
And if previously it was believed that reeds were the lot of the poor, now this environmentally friendly, warm and durable natural material is preferred mainly by wealthy people.
Video: Charming thatched roofs
Chameleon roofs - as they are popularly called - are fabulously beautiful, reliable, cozy and unique.
Video: photos of beautiful and unusual roofs
Homes are so different. Even those built according to the same design, in the same area, some look like palaces, while others look like just buildings. And it’s all about a correctly selected roof shape and suitable covering material, which do not have to be trendy, but must comply with the canons of style. Then the house will receive a modern, beautiful “headdress”, and its inhabitants will receive comfort and coziness.
Many people want to have their own Vacation home, where you can go for a weekend and relax from the bustle of the city. Construction must begin with drawing up a project. However Special attention attention should be paid to creating a plan for the roof of the building.
Roof design
Roof designs today are created using special computer programs. If you have no experience in this matter, it is recommended to use the services of qualified architects, most of whom are able to offer ready-made roof options for private buildings. Suitable option should be chosen based on personal preference.
In the case of independently developing a roof construction plan, it is important to know its structure, as well as what materials should be used in a particular case. It is important to understand why each part of the roof is needed. If you don’t have knowledge of roof construction, you won’t be able to create a high-quality project. The main elements of the roof include the following:
- Lathing. Insulating material and roofing are attached to this part. The sheathing is attached to the rafter supports.
The sheathing serves as the basis for fixing the insulation and roofing material
- Internal supports. They are installed so that the load from the roof can be distributed equally over the entire building structure.
- Ridge run. The rafters will be attached to this part. It is a long, often composite, beam of large cross-section.
The ridge purlin sets the upper boundary of the roof and forms the junction of two slopes - Rafters. They form the roof frame and are the basis for the sheathing. Can be layered or hanging type. If you plan to make a project with hanging rafters, then the two outer supports should be used as the basis for them. Elements can work in bending and compression. Hanging rafters are used mainly for attic buildings. Rafter legs of the layered type should rest on both extreme points of the supporting parts and on several internal ones. Elements can only work in bending.
Layered rafters are installed if the house has a permanent partition - Diagonal ligaments. With their help, the rafters and mauerlat are fastened together. Also called braces.
- Mauerlat. These are special slats that are laid along the lower perimeter of the structure. The rafter system will rest on them. Mounted flush with the wall. The elements should be carefully waterproofed from the wall side.
The Mauerlat is laid along the upper end of the walls and serves as a connecting link between the building frame and the roofing system - Roofing material. The outer part of the roof, which performs a decorative function and protects the building from atmospheric influences.
Roofing material is the finishing coating for which the entire roof frame is assembled
The parts are fastened to each other by small pins called ruffs. In addition, in some cases, support niches are cut out under the rafter legs, which are fastened with steel wire approximately 4–6 mm thick.
To build a rafter system, you should use high-quality wood. Sometimes you can meet metal constructions, however, wood is a more affordable material. For rafter supports, timber from 40x150 mm to 100x250 mm is used. The choice of material sizes will depend on the distance between the supports, the design load and the design features of the roof. The cross-section of the rafters is determined based on their length.
Table: roof material parameters
Roof shapes
In individual construction, there are several roof forms:
- Flat roof. Such a design becomes advantageous if an attic space is planned underneath it, rather than a full-fledged attic. It can be warm: since the slope is minimal, it is possible to lay a large amount of insulating material. The roof can be used for buildings of any configuration, even those in which the pitched roof seems broken and large. Flat roof often made exploitable. Additional space for relaxation can be organized on it. However, the design of such a roof must include a snow melting system that will prevent the accumulation of snow and ice in large quantities. The design is not popular in Russia, so few companies are able to competently draw up a project for such a roof.
Flat roofs are often used for exploitation: they are used for gardens, greenhouses, recreation areas and even parking lots. - Roof with one slope. This design is the easiest to make. It is suitable for buildings with a span of 6–7 m. The tilt direction to the north will allow you to create large windows on the southern part of the facade. To the south, it is recommended to install solar collectors along the entire base of the roof. This type of construction allows the use of large sheet roofing materials. A roof with one slope is suitable for both large buildings and small buildings - garages or verandas. The project can provide for the presence of several structures with a single slope, which are combined into a single structure and have slopes in different directions. The slope should be small so that there is no need to build walls that are too high.
When installing a pitched roof, there is always a compromise: the angle of inclination cannot be made too large so as not to build a very high front wall, but it must ensure free drainage of precipitation - Roof with two slopes. This design is the most popular and affordable. The roof ideally covers any structure, forming a triangular-shaped superstructure. It is recommended to choose a gable roof if you need to arrange an attic space. Windows located in the gables will be able to provide the proper level of ventilation and illumination. For an attic room, a modified variation of a gable roof is quite often used - a broken structure, which is distinguished by a steeper slope of the lower part (70–80° compared to the upper 28–30°). This makes it possible to significantly increase the area of the attic. A roof with two slopes also includes a vaulted structure, which is built in a circle. This type of roofing can decorate the protruding parts of the building.
A gable roof allows you to arrange an attic space - Half hip roof. This option is reliable and low-cost in financially. The attic can be ventilated and illuminated using windows in the gables. Half-hip roofs are classified as types of buildings with two slopes.
The half-hipped roof structure has gables, with the help of which the attic can be illuminated and ventilated - Hip roof. It has good resistance to wind loads. Quite often, such roof designs are used to cover buildings of a significant area and improve their appearance. This is a complex product that must have hearing and skylights. They provide the necessary level of lighting and ventilation.
The hip roof must have dormers and dormer windows. - Hip roof. This is a subtype of hip roof. It is suitable only for square-shaped buildings - towers and gazebos.
Hip roof is only suitable for square shaped buildings - Broken hip roof. Unites in itself beneficial features two systems - broken and hip. It is advisable to build it if you plan to build a large, presentable house. The design is quite difficult to implement. Its main advantages include the ability to profitably manage the usable space of the attic and its excellent appearance.
A sloping hip roof is suitable for large private houses
In the process of drawing up a project, it is necessary to take into account the material from which the roof is made. On this moment You can find many types of roofing coverings on sale:
- iron;
- cement-sand tiles;
- slate;
- reeds, straw or reeds;
- wooden shingles;
- metal tiles;
- roofing felt;
- metal profile.
How to determine roof slope
The slope of the structure is influenced by the type of roofing material. To simplify the calculation, you can use special scheme, which makes it possible to select the roof material based on its slope.
The slope of the roof depends on many factors, including the covering material. If the slope is from 0 to 25%, then materials in rolls can be used to cover the roof. If the angle of inclination is in the range of 12–25%, then installation of one layer is allowed, for example, material with filling. On roofs with a slope of less than 28%, it is possible to lay corrugated sheets of asbestos cement. Slate is most suitable. If the angle of inclination is more than 33%, then tiles are often used.
Once the angle of inclination of the roof and the material for covering the structure have been determined, it is necessary to calculate the height of the ridge. To do this, a mathematical method is used: you need to take the span width of the building and divide it by 2. The result is multiplied by a relative indicator, which is taken from the table.
Table: dependence of the relative indicator on the roof slope
For example, with a span width of 8 m and a slope of 25°, the height of the ridge will be 8 / 2 x 0.47 = 1.88 m.
In the process of drawing up a roof project, it is important to consider the following rules:
- The calculated wind load is 35 kg/m2. If the slope of the rafters is more than 30°, then an auxiliary structure should be installed in order to increase the resistance.
- The calculated snow load will depend on the slope of the slope. If it is less than 60°, then it will be at least 180 kg/m 3. If the slope is greater, then the load is most often not taken into account.
- To strengthen the structure, it is allowed to use iron elements. To protect them from moisture, rust or condensation, they should be treated with special means.
Designing the roof of a large house
If you plan to build a large private house, then it is not recommended to use a pitched roof. If you still want to make it, you should consider having several pitched roofs. They will need to be combined and placed at an angle different directions. If you do not want to build high walls, then the roof should not have a large slope.
From an aesthetic point of view, the best solution is the use of a hip sloping roof. It must be provided with dormer and dormer windows so that the roof can be ventilated.
If it is planned to make a hip broken roof, then care should be taken to install dormer windows In a similar design you can do attic floor, which will add usable space to the building. When placing dormer window care must be taken to:
- the roof angle was more than 35°;
- the dimensions of the valves ranged from 80x60 to 120x80 cm;
- the superstructure above the roof opening was removed from the outer walls a short distance.
To equip roof dormers, you can use the following facing materials:
- tiles;
- copper sheets;
- sheets of steel.
In the process of drawing up a roof project, you will need to make a separate drawing of the dormer windows. When creating a project, you need to consider the following nuances:
- the width of the opening for such a window should be more than half the width of the attic room;
- the supports must be the same thickness as the roof rafters;
- Frame elements should be secured with steel fasteners.
Video: roof dormer window project
Roof project for a chalet house
Chalet-style buildings were first made by residents of settlements in the Alps, but at the moment they can be seen in Western Europe, the USA, Canada and some regions of Russia.
A gable roof is suitable for a chalet-style house, but it must hang over the walls A distinctive feature of the appearance of a chalet-style building is the roof, which hangs strongly over the walls. Under such a shelter, the base, blind area, basement and walls of the building will be reliably protected from precipitation and sunlight. The roof can be extended up to 300 cm to ensure that water drains away from the building after rain. Removing the roof can also help prevent dampness in the basement and first floor. This will help increase the possible period of use of the building.
The chalet roof structure has large extensions in the form of canopies, which can protect the terraces located along the front part of the building from wind and precipitation, or form a usable area, which will also be reliably protected from atmospheric influences.
In winter, such a roof will retain snow and can provide additional thermal insulation. It is worth noting that although such a roof visually seems large, it does not make the building heavier. However, for reliability, consoles should be built along the walls, which will serve as additional supporting parts for the roof overhangs.
This is done as follows:
For a flat roof, the project must include a reinforced rafter mechanism, since the rafters will need to withstand a large load from snow. With a slope of more than 45°, the snow load can be ignored.
Most chalet-style building designs include a large veranda, which is an advantage for big family. It is important to remember that building such a house is an expensive process, but in the end the building will not only bring joy to the family, but will also highlight the status of the owner.
Chalet-style structures have the following features:
- A flat roof with two slopes, far protruding canopies and significant overhangs.
- A large terrace that extends beyond the perimeter of the building and is often supported by columns.
- High base made of stone.
- Second floor made of wooden parts.
- Balconies that are located under the roof overhangs.
There are no special requirements for the interior of such a house, which cannot be said about the exterior. However, projects most often comply with certain standards. The basic rule is the use of wood and stone. These natural materials will be able to create an atmosphere of warmth and comfort in the rooms. The ceiling and floor base are most often constructed from wooden parts. The walls of the lower floor can be plastered, whitewashed and decorated with decorative details.
Carrying out competent and complete load calculations will make it possible to obtain a strong and reliable roof that will meet all requirements. There are small projects country houses, where a “hut” type construction is used. The roof in these buildings practically reaches the ground, combining the functions of walls and roof. Such buildings have an extraordinary and beautiful appearance.
Program for designing a house roof
Roof calculations and project development are complex procedures. If you have no experience in performing such work, it is recommended to contact qualified specialists or use appropriate software. Today you can find a large number of specialized software, but it’s worth figuring out which one is the most convenient.
Many specialists traditionally make calculations manually, but it is worth understanding that the result of a computer program calculation will be more accurate and visual.
If the roof project will be drawn up for yourself, it is recommended to use FloorPlan3D. For specialists who engage in this activity on a regular basis, ArCon and AutoCad programs are more suitable.
Video: developing a project for a roof rafter system in ArchiCad
Independent development of a house roof project
The work on drafting the project is divided into 3 stages:
- Preparing a sketch. The work consists of determining the roof structure to be manufactured, visualizing the appearance and choosing the material for the covering. It is important to agree on the basic style of the building and the roof, and then determine the color of the structure. This stage is preparatory. All thoughts and ideas must be transferred to paper.
- Development of main design diagrams. You will need to perform calculations taking into account the expected loads on the roof, and then select the material for the rafter legs and their dimensions. After this, you will need to make a drawing of the roof and think through the main details. Next, an estimate is drawn up: the required amount of materials is calculated, a list of tools and materials is prepared, and the cost of equipment and work is determined.
- Construction works. The project should be put into practice. During this period, you only need to carry out auxiliary calculations. They will be, since it is quite difficult to take everything into account. Certain adjustments will be made as the work progresses.
A private house on the plan should be divided into rectangles. Lines are drawn inside them, which indicate the junction of the planes of the slopes on the inside and outside. Next, you need to designate the placement of valleys and skates. Some of the parts will be located outside the boundaries of the external walls, since the roof must have an overhang. Projections of the front and side parts must be made taking into account the slope of the slopes. They are set when the entire house project is being drawn up, since it is important to take into account the purpose and type of structure, as well as the type of roofing material used.
On the roof drawing you need to indicate the exact location of the main parts, as well as indicate their dimensions and shape The graphic part of the project is prepared using computer programs. The plan must have coordinate axes. With their help it will be easier to navigate in space. For this you will need:
- Draw a line around the plan of a private house.
- Transfer the boundaries of the main walls and other lines of the building design to the roof drawing.
- Above each building rectangle, draw an image of a roof, starting with the largest.
- Mark the projections of the skates with lines.
- Draw the valleys.
The design must necessarily indicate the placement of channels for smoke removal and ventilation. If you plan to install skylights, they must also be marked on the plan. The lines should determine the slopes of the slopes, as well as the directions of the drains. The actual dimensions must be indicated along all axes and contours of the project.
Separate items in the project need to include drawings of the connection points of various roof elements:
- attaching struts, racks, tie rods and other elements;
- fixing the rafter legs to the mauerlat;
- fastening the ridge purlin, the place where the rafter legs are fixed to each other and to other parts.
The graphic section of the plan should contain a sketch of the roof that can give general idea about the roof. This is required primarily in order to evaluate aesthetics and appearance.
A sketch of the roof is needed so that you can evaluate its appearance. If you plan to cut in any elements, they need to be displayed on a separate drawing. It is imperative to indicate the shape of the notch and its actual dimensions.
In the process of independently drawing up a project, it is important to take into account the following rules:
- The intersection of the planes of the slopes should form a ridge or valley. The corner of the rectangle should be divided into 2 equal parts using the projection of the slopes.
- Through two lines that converge or intersect in one place, there is almost always a third line.
- The lines of the ridge and eaves overhangs should be parallel. The projection of the ridge line should pass through the middle of the building.
- A flat structure design consists of several lines. A roof with several slopes has many projections of valleys and ridges. Such roofs have a complex shape and require the preparation of a reinforced rafter system and a large slope.
Video: drawing up a roof plan yourself
Calculation of roof area
At the project preparation stage, you need to know the data on the area of the structure. This is required in order to be able to correctly calculate the amount of roofing material, insulation, fasteners and waterproofing.
Mistakes that are made when drawing up a project
Once the plan is developed, there is a desire to begin implementing it. However, it is recommended that you consult with experts first. If miscalculations are made during the preparation of the project, the rework may require a lot of time and money.
Quite often, designers make mistakes that can be divided into 2 types:
- design flaws;
- architectural miscalculations.
The latter are in most cases associated with shortcomings in the ventilation of roof elements. If the structure is insulated, it is important to pay attention not only to protecting the insulating material from moisture, but also to such details as the ventilation system for the eaves overhang or ridge.
The normal functioning of such mechanisms is influenced by auxiliary parts, which include attics, parapets, etc. If they are installed incorrectly, they can have negative impact for air intake. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the height of the vents or refuse to install some elements.
Another common mistake is an incorrectly designed drainage system.
The drainage system can be open or closed, but in any case it is necessary to correctly calculate the cross-section of its passage elements Quite often decorative gutters are used that are of insufficient dimensions. In this case, the water may overflow. This may result in damage to the façade of the building. Another mistake is a small roof slope. This quite often leads to a critical increase in the load on the rafter mechanism during frosts.
When choosing a material for covering a structure, be sure to take into account the following recommendations:
- for metal tiles, the permissible tilt angle is 30°;
- for corrugated sheets minimum slope is 8°;
- for slate, the optimal range of tilt angles is 25–30°;
- for flexible coating, the permissible slope is 5° or more.
Particular attention must be paid to drawing up a roof project, since if even minor miscalculations are made, the roof will be fragile. Accordingly, unplanned repair work may be necessary shortly after production.
Houses, like people, have their own soul and face, which reflects their internal way of life. And this affects roofs the most. They are the first to catch your eye, so they are the calling card of the house and its owners. If the roof is well-groomed and elegant, made with love, it means that peace and prosperity reign in the house, and its inhabitants live in comfort and coziness. Roofs for small houses, thanks to newfangled trends and modern technologies, have become real masterpieces of design art.
Features of one-story buildings
Before we talk about roofs one-story houses and their structure, we will find out the essence and features of low buildings. In recent years, the construction of low-rise cottages has become the most popular option for private housing construction, due to many advantages:
Video: projects of small private houses
Roof options for one-story houses and their arrangement
Based on the characteristics of low-rise buildings, roofs for them are selected accordingly. They should be light so as not to weigh down the shallow foundation. Uncomplicated in shape - complex broken structures will not fit into the architectural appearance low house, unless it is a roof with an attic.
A one-story house with an attic and two garages are located under one roof.
But at the same time, roofs must be beautiful, stylish, durable and, most importantly, perform their assigned functions perfectly:
- protect the house from bad weather;
- withstand snow and wind loads;
- withstand sudden temperature changes, solar radiation, chemical influences and combustion.
The structure of the roofs of one-story buildings does not differ from the structure of the roofs of high-rise private houses. They also consist of two blocks:
- load-bearing part - rafter system;
- enclosing structure - roofing.
These components of the roof are dependent on each other. If the rafter system is installed incorrectly, it is unlikely that it will be possible to lay the covering material correctly. And this is fraught with big problems, including failure of the supporting structure. And vice versa - with poor installation of roofing decking and the use of low-quality materials, at least roof leaks are inevitable. Which will entail dampness in the under-roof space, rotting of the rafters, the appearance of mold, mildew, etc. That is, repairs are inevitable and they will cost a considerable amount.
For one-story buildings, conventional gable roofs are preferable - they are the most reliable due to their design, since they have only two planes and one joint. However, many developers are not satisfied with the simplicity of the forms. I want something special, original even for a small house. And here architects came to their aid. They introduced into the structure of roofs for one-story houses stylish elements, making them worthy of admiration.
Powerful rafter legs are extended far beyond the walls and rest against a monolithic fence; the slope simultaneously serves as a canopy for a large terrace
The basis of any roof is the rafter system. It is individual for each form and has its own design features. It will be much easier to choose a suitable roof frame if you have an idea in advance about what types of load-bearing roofing systems are used in the construction of one-story houses. Especially when they plan to build the roof on their own.
Shed roofs
Roofs with one slope are simple and economical designs. They attract with the lightness and speed of construction, as well as the minimal consumption of building materials. If previously such roofs were the lot of outbuildings, garages, verandas, today they can often be seen above residential buildings lovers of modernism, minimalism and hi-tech.
A pitched roof can add expressive dynamics to the architecture of high-tech houses
Despite the simplicity of the upper structure of buildings, there are many more options for constructing such roofs than it seems. This can be a classic rafter system - the rafter legs rest on two opposite walls of the building of different heights through the mauerlat. The support can also be a concrete reinforced belt, arranged in advance during the construction of walls, or the upper rows of log (wooden) boxes.
The rafter system for a pitched roof has several design options
An interesting system is based on one side on the wall, and the other on a support in the form of beams. The upper parts of the rafters are attached to load-bearing wall or through steel brackets to the wall itself, and the lower ones - to the frame of the beams. This is exactly what they do when they build sheds or extensions. Roofs can cover the extension together with the main building, or they can look like separate roofs.
When constructing single-pitched roofs of extensions and sheds, the upper parts of the rafters are attached to the wall
As a variation of this option, both sides of the rafter legs rest on the frame of the beams.
In another version of the construction of the rafter system, both sides of the rafter legs rest on the strapping of the installed beams
When the walls are the same height, to build a pitched roof, one wall is built up. But in this case, it will be faster and more reliable to use construction trusses made of wood or metal, either factory-produced or made independently.
The use of construction trusses greatly simplifies the construction of a pitched roof
It is necessary to note another type of rafter system, which is used to transfer the load from the walls to the floors. In this case, support posts are installed that support the rafters and rafter legs.
To reduce the load-bearing load on the walls of the house, support posts are used
And the latest architectural fashion for pitched roofs of low-rise buildings - the rafter system rests directly on the ground - a bright and bold design. Such a roof will certainly not go unnoticed.
A striking element of the design of a one-story house was the dynamic pitched roof, which rests the rafter system on the ground
Video: DIY pitched roof
If we talk about unusual pitched roofs, then there are:
- wavy roof shapes;
Roof one-story cottage has a non-trivial shape of a wave running onto the shore - this emphasizes the ultra-modern design style
- arcuate;
Beautiful small house with an arched timber roof and spectacularly curved beams - an example of what can be done with wood as a building material - no limits to your imagination
- sawtooth structures - for those who are looking for a way to fill their home with warmth and light, as well as visually increase the interior space;
A sawtooth pitched roof is an excellent option to fill the house with natural light and visually expand its interior space
- green pitched roofs, especially relevant for buildings near highways or large industrial enterprises, because they not only look picturesque, but purify the air and absorb noise;
A green pitched roof will give an additional boost of energy, add vitality, increase stress resistance and improve heart function.
- roof staircases for one-story long buildings;
The house in the UK fits harmoniously into its surroundings, thanks to the natural forms and smooth tonal transitions of the color scheme
- canopy roofs are very practical - the curvature of the slope can be bent taking into account the climatic conditions of a particular area;
The curvature of a shed roof can easily adapt to the weather conditions of any region and the architectural style of the house
- refracting roofs that merge into the façade.
Shed roof refracted and passing onto the facade - stylish trend who came from Europe
Of course, so far many of them look exotic due to their unusual, ultra-modern shape. But time will pass, new lean-to structures will appear, more unusual, and the current ones will already be decorating private houses with might and main.
Video: unusual roofs of private houses - ideas for construction
Gable roofs
Despite the many options, gable roofs for low-rise buildings remain the most popular because:
- such designs look expressive and neat;
A special highlight is the external chimney, typical of Victorian style houses.
- have a clear and uncomplicated rafter system;
The gable roof rafter system is simple and easy to install
- are distinguished by simplicity and thriftiness in arrangement, as well as reliability in operation;
- provide good ventilation, uniform heating of the attic space and rapid melting of snow, which is especially valuable for buildings in the northern regions;
- make it possible to use any materials and, if desired, equip the under-roof space relative to the angle of inclination into a utility room or into a full-fledged residential attic.
A one-story cottage with an attic and a multi-level gable roof looks impressive and solid
In addition, gable rafter systems are quite diverse, due to which the shapes of gable roofs sometimes turn out simply fantastic.
Surprising and wonderfully shaped roofs are obtained thanks to unusual options rafter system devices
Photo gallery: houses with gable roofs - a fairy tale in reality
The gable hip roof of a one-story cottage is decorated with various stylish elements 
Modern execution has created a charming Tudor one-story house with a gable roof 
A thatched roof can be given any look, even the most intricate and fantastic. 
The Japanese often create original, witty, and sometimes bizarre shapes of houses and roofs that captivate with their simplicity and intricacy. 
Distinctive feature English houses with an attic - a large slope of the roof slopes and several asymmetrically located gables
Nuances of one-story houses with a gable roof:
- the arrangement of the under-roof room affects the height of the rafter system, which requires strengthening the rafters, which means higher construction costs;
Under a gable roof you can arrange a residential or non-residential attic space
- the slope angle of the slopes depends on the size of the house itself and also affects the height of the structure;
- the presence of gable windows complicates the structure of the roof and increases the costs of its construction;
- When installing a roof, special care is required in the calculation of roofing units - chimneys and ventilation shafts.
The arrangement of the rafter system of a gable roof has various options
Video: original house design using a roof
Hip roofs
Roofs with four slopes are characterized by increased reliability. They are stable and can withstand winds very well.
One-story house with a hip roof and a large open veranda is distinguished by its stability and original appearance
Hip-slope roofs are made in the form of:
- tent structure, where all 4 slopes are combined at one point;
Hip roof is suitable for houses in the form of a square or regular polygon
- and hip (half-hip), consisting of two slopes in the form of a trapezoid and two triangular in shape, connected by a ridge beam.
Interesting idea for modern country house- asymmetrical hipped reed roof in tandem with a corrugated wooden facade
Hipped hipped roofs are economical in the consumption of wall materials due to the absence of gables (gables). However, they have a complex load-bearing system and problems with fitting roof decks. Hip roofs look most successful, especially on one-story houses that are large in area. Such designs give the buildings solidity. In addition, hip roofs are more profitable than hip roofs in terms of the use of roofing materials. Their only drawback, like half-hip structures, is the complexity of roofing work.
The rafter system of a hipped roof is more complex than that of a gable roof
When choosing a hipped version, you need to pay attention to such a factor as the slope of the roof. The angle of inclination of the slopes allows precipitation to be freely removed from the roof, therefore it is a significant criterion for the aesthetic appearance of the roof, its safety and strength. His permissible value from 15 to 65° and depends on:
- From the climate of a particular area. If the house is located in a region with heavy rainfall and snow, then it is advisable to make the roof slope at least 45°. A lower roof slope is suitable for houses located in dry areas. A flat roof with a slope angle of up to 30° is suitable for areas with frequent gusty winds.
- From covering material. For roll coverings the angle of inclination is provided in the range of 5–25°, piece ones - at least 15°, and dimensional roofing materials such as metal tiles and slate are laid on roofs with a slope of 25° or more.
- From the presence of an attic room. Here it is especially necessary to accurately calculate the angle of inclination so as not to underestimate the usable area and, conversely, not to overestimate it and get unused space under the ridge. Optimal angle tilt 38–45°. If the slope is less than 30°, it is better to make an attic space.
Increasing the angle of the roof means increasing the length of the rafters and the area of the rafter system. That is, greater consumption of materials and more expensive construction.
Video: finished hipped roof - review
Chalet roofs
The distinctive properties of chalet structures are high reliability, the use of exclusively natural materials and large sizes.
The chalet roofs have large overhangs
You need to understand right away that such a roof cannot be cheap. This is a wide gable structure, most often wooden, with large overhangs, powerful rafters and roof beams extending 1.5–3 m beyond the surface of the walls. It is also gently sloping, with a wide opening angle and a short distance to the ground. Due to this, drainage is not installed under such a roof. Thanks to this structure, it performed well in the most extreme conditions.
Massive ones attract attention wooden beams supporting the roof - the design looks unusual and tempting
Advantages of a chalet roof:
Although the chalet roof looks impressive and heavy, it does not create particularly strong pressure on the foundation.
Therefore, this design is well suited to low-rise buildings with shallow foundations and is easy to make on your own. It is only necessary to observe the traditional size of the slopes. The easiest way to arrange a chalet:
- A strapping is attached to the ends of the beams, which will hold the bottom row of roofing.
The rafters are placed far beyond the walls - this is the peculiarity of chalet-style roofs
- Consoles are installed on the side walls. They perform a supporting function and are also decorative.
For chalet-style roofs, powerful consoles are installed around the perimeter of the side walls to support the rafters
An architectural feature of a chalet-style house is the roof overhanging the walls, which gives the appearance of the house extraordinary beauty.
Chalet style is a brand that has passed through time and won the hearts of many today's homeowners
Video: chalet-style houses and roofs
Hip roof
The key features of hip roofs are the presence of dormer and dormer windows. They provide natural ventilation of the under-roof space and high level illumination However, you need to understand that with equal house sizes, the area of the hip structure will be more area gable roof - construction will cost more, but the result is much more spectacular than the gable version.
If we compare the types of roofs of one-story houses, then buildings with a hip roof are among the first - even small houses with a hip roof look much more expensive and more impressive than the gable version
The most common options for hip roofs:
- half-hip (Dutch) design - built on the principle of a broken mansard with the only difference being that the lower half-hip roof has 4 slopes;
The hip roof can have hanging or layered rafters
Pros of a hip roof:
- has a rigid structure, which is why its deformation is unlikely;
- resists gusty winds well;
- large eaves overhangs protect the foundation and walls from flooding and are often used as awnings over terraces;
- visually makes the facade attic house lower.
Disadvantages of the hip design:
- complexity and high cost;
- reduction of attic space, which is especially inconvenient if you want to equip an attic;
- Dormer and dormer windows, on the one hand, provide additional lighting, and on the other hand, if the tightness is insufficient, they can allow moisture to pass through.
The hip roof for one-story houses has become a kind of standard, especially in steppe, forest-steppe zones and hilly areas with an abundance of strong winds.
Sometimes a structure with a bay window is deliberately increased to the second floor, but the roof of the extension with the hip roof of the house is not broken
This roofing option will not be cheap, but it will also last for decades, perfectly protecting the house from natural negatives.
Video: hip roof made of metal tiles
Multi-gable roofs
In recent years, multi-gable structures crowning one-story buildings have become increasingly common. The difference between such roofs is the complexity of their construction, which entails significant financial costs, but houses with multi-gable roofs look graceful and eccentric.
Among the variety of roofs, the multi-gable roof is considered the most complex and expensive design, but this does not stop those who want to decorate their home with a graceful, impressive roof
Any configuration and size of buildings are suitable for the multi-gable option, however, it is easier to construct such roofs on rectangular and square buildings.
Video: roofs of houses
Multi-gable roofs are made not only to protect the building from bad weather, but also for the sake of their beauty and original catchy design. Often such structures are used as part of combined complex roofs, for example, installed on attics to obtain additional lighting.
Such a roof requires a lot of expense and effort, but it will greatly decorate a private home and make it stunningly attractive in appearance.
Multi-gable roofs can be gable or multi-pitch with different slopes. The latter create a cross-shaped shape on the surface of the house.
Advantages of multi-gable roofs:
- strength, reliability and long service life;
- volume and beauty due to increased design potential;
- additional living space, well lit and ventilated.
Disadvantages include:
Before creating a multi-gable roof, you should initially calculate your own financial capabilities, since this design is the most expensive.
Video: installing a house roof - what you need to know
It is impossible to predict in advance what type of roof will suit a particular house, just as there is no universal design. Developers put forward their own requirements, desires and preferences. We can only say that when designing a roof yourself, look at all the options. Take into account the nuances in order to choose a high-quality, aesthetic and stylish roof in accordance with your capabilities.