Explore the diverse world of Australian roof types, delving into the unique designs and materials that define and protect every home. From traditional to modern styles, discover what makes each roof special and how they cater to various needs and aesthetics.
By Design
Photo Credit: Architectural Digest
Gable Roof is the most common roof type, recognized by its triangular shape formed by two sloping sides that meet at a ridge in the middle.
Solar Consideration
Generally easy for solar panel installation.
Consider: Roof pitch and orientation to the sun are crucial for optimal energy production.
Installation Ease: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
2. Hip Roof
The hip roof is a roof where all four sides slope downwards to the walls, creating a more streamlined look without vertical gable ends.
Solar Considerations
Moderate: Multiple slopes can make installation trickier, and there may be limitations on panel placement for optimal sunlight exposure.
Notes: More complex due to multiple slopes and the potential for limited space.
• Installation Ease: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
3. Skillion Roof
Photo Credit: Mcdonald Jones Homes
Skillion Roof is a single, flat surface that slopes down in one direction, creating a minimalist and modern look.
Solar Considerations
• Excellent (If angled correctly): Skillion roofs are ideal for solar if they face the right direction (north in the Southern Hemisphere) and have a good pitch for solar access.
• Notes: Easiest installation if the angle is suitable for solar access.
• Installation Ease: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
4. Flat Roof
Flat Roof is a roof with a minimal slope (almost level) often found on commercial buildings and some modern homes.
Solar Considerations
• Very Good: Easy to install solar panels, but angled mounting systems are needed to optimize sunlight exposure.
• Notes: Easy installation but may require weighted ballasts for panel mounting.
• Installation Ease: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
5. Gambrel Roof
Photo Credit: Paul Uhlmann Architects
Gambrel Roof is A two-sided roof with each side having two slopes – a steeper lower slope and a shallower upper slope. This creates a distinctive barn-like look.
Solar Considerations
• Challenging: The change in slope and roof structure can make solar panel installation more complex, often requiring specialized mounting solutions.
• Notes: Challenging due to the change in slope and potential structural considerations.
• Installation Ease: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
6. Mansard Roof
Photo Credit: Trinity Architects
Mansard roof is a four-sided hip roof (slopes on all sides) where each side has two slopes, similar to a gambrel roof but on all sides.
Solar Considerations
• Very Difficult: The multiple slopes, angles, and valleys make standard solar panel installation extremely difficult and often impractical.
• Notes: Very complex installation due to multiple slopes and angles.
• Installation Ease: ⭐ (1/5)
7. Mansard Roof
Photo Credit: Sydney Roof Contractor
Sawtooth roof is a series of ridges on one side of the roof, resembling saw teeth. Common in industrial buildings and factories, allowing for north-facing clerestory windows.
Solar Considerations
• Potentially Good: Complexity of the roof requires careful assessment and specialized installation techniques.
• Notes: Can be suitable for solar, but angle and structural support need assessment.
• Installation Ease: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
8. Bonnet Roof
Photo Credit: Houzz
Bonnet Roof is Reverse gambrel - the lower slope is shallower, and the upper slope is steeper
Solar Considerations
• Notes: Similar challenges to gambrel roofs due to the slope change.
• Installation Ease: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
9. Curved Roof
Photo Credit: Western States Metal Roofing
Curved roof: roof with a curved or arched shape, commonly found in modern and contemporary architecture, sometimes on extensions or porches.
Solar Considerations:
• Installation Ease: ⭐ (1/5) to ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) (Highly variable)
• Notes: Complexity: Installing solar panels on curved roofs is very challenging and often requires specialized, custom-designed mounting systems.nge.
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