At the very beginning of planning your roofing renovation or construction project it is necessary to define what type of roof will be most suitable for your property. There is a wide variety of options for different buildings. Therefore, we will show you the main characteristics of each model so that you can choose the one that best suits the style and needs of your home!
Inclined apparent roof
This is one of the most used types of roofs in the country. It is composed of tiles over a structure that can be made of wood or steel. It is usually done on one or more slopes, whose minimum inclination must follow the specifications of the tile model chosen for the process.
Before starting the work, it is necessary to define the number of waters that will compose the roof, since this point is not only about aesthetics. Therefore, it is essential to take into consideration several aspects of the project – such as the direction in which the rainwater will fall or whether the house is a semi-detached house, for example.
One of the main benefits that this type of roof has is its water drainage, since it enables the distribution and drainage of the liquid outside the building. This can be done either with the use of apparent gutters or with eaves. Another advantage is its wide diffusion, making future maintenance or renovations much more practical.
Mansard Roof
This is another type of roof that is widely used. The mansard is used in construction projects that have attics or other types of internal environments on the roof. Thus, based on the project, it is possible to plan windows or other types of openings to facilitate entry and natural lighting, as well as additional space on the roof floor.
The great advantage of this type of roof is precisely its increase in the useful ceiling height of the house. There is a caveat in this model, as it requires a higher investment in thermal protection when compared to the others.
Therefore, it is necessary to perform a thermal insulation from the use of glass or rock wool. If these measures are not taken, the environments may become unsuitable for use because of the internal heat.
Salt Type of Roof
Here, one side of the roof is much larger than the other. Thus, besides this differential in the roof’s aesthetics, it is the best solution when the property has an extra floor on one side of the building, such as a mezzanine, for example.
Despite its more laborious and challenging execution, it allows for a differentiated and innovative design, and is an option for those who want a property that stands out in the neighborhood.
Built-in roof
The recessed roofs are the ideal option to give a refined look to the buildings, allowing a modern and contemporary design to the real estate. They have several aesthetic varieties, hiding the inclination of the building’s roof.
To execute this roofing model, it is possible to use waterproofed slabs with an asphalt blanket or even with tiles with a lower inclination that will be surrounded by an extension of the building’s external walls, known as a platiband. Thus, if you opt for a waterproofed flat slab, it is possible to set up an uncovered terrace environment that can be used for other purposes. This saves on woodwork.
In addition, if you choose the metal tile to compose your roof, you can count on an even faster installation, since in this process the number of materials is smaller, allowing a more practical installation.
The great disadvantage of this model is that, because of the verges, it is not possible to foresee possible problems on the roof, resulting in infiltrations and leaks.
Green Roof
The combination of aesthetics and the concept of sustainability enables several options for the customization of the roof with green roofs.
This solution works as a kind of garden directly on the roof of the buildings. Thus, it allows a much more pleasant environment for the residents. This happens because this type of roof is capable of providing greater thermal comfort for the residents, favoring the quality of the internal environments.
This sustainable solution is executed on a slab that is completely waterproofed and equipped with drains and treated for this purpose. The concept of sustainability and its capacity for thermal insulation are the main characteristics of a green roof. Green roof is able to absorb up to 90% more heat than other models.
What are the elements of a roof?
Now that you know the main types of roofing, let’s detail the elements that make up a roof so you can perfectly understand how to plan your renovation or construction!
Roof Structure
The structure is the skeleton of the roof. It is the one that gives support to the tiles, enabling the protection of the building’s internal environments. It is usually made of wood – mainly in residential buildings – but different materials can be used, such as metal.
The shape of the roof structure will vary according to the size of the building, the model of the tiles to be used, the trims, the aggressiveness of the environment, etc. Here, there are some essential elements that compose it, such as shears, purlins, beams, rafters, battens, and trusses.
Tiles
Roof tiles are one of the most important elements of a roof. They are responsible for the protection of the internal environments, as well as for the esthetics of the building. There are several models of different types of materials on the market. Therefore, knowing their characteristics is essential to adapt their use according to the project’s needs.
Ceramics
Ceramic tiles are the most popular. For this reason, it is possible to see them in practically any house in the cities. They offer great thermal insulation, besides inhibiting the external propagation of airborne sounds. They come in several models and different colors, enabling a charming look for your home.
Ecological
This is a great choice for those who want a unique style allied to the concept of sustainability. There are types of ecological roofs that are composed of recyclable materials and vegetable fibers. This guarantees a great resistance and durability, besides being light and flexible.
Translucent
Translucent tiles are the best choice for those who wish to apply sustainability to their project. There are several types of transparent tiles that make it possible to save on electricity use. They do it by enhancing natural lighting in internal environments because of their transparency.
Gutters and flashings
Gutters are indispensable elements for a roof. They are responsible for draining rainwater. This way it is possible to define where the drainage point of the roof will be. Thus, you will be avoiding problems with infiltrations and leaks in the internal environments.
Now, the ruffles are sealing elements between the masonry and the roof. They form a physical barrier that prevents the infiltration of water into the walls.