Choose a roof for your home. What is the best roof for a house - professional advice

At the initial stage of construction, it is desirable to have a clear idea of what kind of roof to choose for your dream home. After all, if the laid foundation, walls and rafters have a good margin of safety, you will have the opportunity to install any roof for your home.

The roof is not only the protection of the building itself and residents from various manifestations of nature, it is the main decoration of the house.

The roof of the house carries not only the protective function of the house, but is also the main decoration of the house.

It is built for many years, and therefore it is very important that the roof you choose has excellent characteristics: it is durable, frost-resistant, has sound insulation, withstands a lot of snow, and is beautiful.

What are the criteria for choosing a roof?

1. Bituminous slate (ondulin). 2. Composite tiles. 3. Metal tile. 4. Seam roof.

When choosing the look of the roof, you need to consider in which region you live. How often does it rain, with what force does the wind blow, how much snow falls?

A clear idea of what will suit the overall look of the house and what will look ridiculous will help you choose the material for the future roof. After all, the roof is the crown of the entire building and it must correspond to the appearance of the building.

But at the same time, it should be understood that if you need for outbuildings or gazebos, you should not choose a roof “for centuries”.

All currently existing roofing materials are divided into three groups: economy class, business class and premium class.

The most affordable economy class includes asbestos cement sheets (slate), galvanized and non-galvanized steel sheets (corrugated board), ondulin (corrugated bitumen sheets). These are traditional roofing materials widely used in construction.
The business class includes soft roofing and metal tiles. These materials are distinguished not only by their durability, ease of installation, but also by the presentable appearance of the house.
The premium class includes ceramic and composite tiles. Roofs with such a coating look luxurious and expensive.

Characteristics of ceramic tiles

Installation of a roof from a natural tile demands serious skills and a certain experience.

In the manufacture of natural tiles, clay is used, which is molded and fired in kilns at a temperature of 1000 degrees. After firing, it acquires a characteristic red-brown color. If glaze is applied to the tile before the firing process, then such a tile will better resist various atmospheric phenomena and the service life will increase.

The standard size of one tile is 30x30 cm, it weighs up to 2 kg. According to the method of manufacture and location on the roof, several types of ceramic tiles are distinguished. It happens: ceramic ordinary, tape flat, tape slot, stamped slot, 1-wave, 2-wave, grooved.

Recommended when laying ceramic tiles from 25-35 degrees to 60 degrees. If the slope is less than 25 degrees, both waterproofing and ventilation will have to be strengthened. With the recommended roof slope, fastening occurs as standard. If the slope is more than 60 degrees, the tiles must be fixed with additional screws.

The tiles are fastened to each other with the help of special locks; for fastening to the crate, each tile has special holes for screws. When laying tiles, the effect of a roofing carpet is obtained, leakage is excluded.

Ceramic tiles have the longest service life - 100-150 years. It looks appropriate on stone, wooden and brick houses, it is used for any number of storeys of the house.
The price of ceramic tiles varies from 20 to 50 US dollars per 1 sq.m. If you have the opportunity to choose such a roof for your home, you will not regret it.

Pros of choosing ceramic tiles:

Minimal maintenance. A preventive inspection of the roof once a year is enough (clean the gutters, valleys).
Excellent noise reduction.
The material is non-flammable and does not corrode.
Frost resistance is calculated on 1000 and more cycles.
External appeal of the roof, a large selection of colors and shapes.
The roof "breathes", and the moisture that appears quickly evaporates.

Cons of choosing ceramic tiles:

Has a lot of weight. During the construction of the roof will need to be reduced.
The material is very fragile.
With a complex roof structure, a large amount of fastening material will be required.

Characteristics of shingles

By production of a bituminous tile fiberglass, cellulose, polyester is used. This material is reliable. When laying, a continuous roofing carpet is obtained, which only strengthens under the influence of sunlight. You can choose both colors and shapes. The size of 1 sheet is 1 m by 30 cm. The weight of one square meter is 8-12 kg.

Due to the plasticity of bituminous tiles, they can be used in the most intricate roof structures, they are resistant to precipitation, they can be chosen for roofs with a minimum slope of 12 degrees. The maximum level is unlimited. It is necessary to lay this type of roof on waterproof plywood using a lining layer of waterproofing.

It is widely used for private houses, cottages, garages and gazebos, for public buildings. If it is necessary to reconstruct the old roof, it is advantageous to use it, since the old waterproofing layer is not removed and bituminous tiles are laid directly on it.
The price of shingles varies from 8 to 10 USD/sq.m.

Advantages of choosing shingles:

There is no scrap both during transportation and installation.
The ability to cover the roof of any shape.
Good roof insulation.
It does not rot, is not subject to corrosion and rust.
Little waste is left during installation.

Cons of choosing shingles:

High flammability of this material.
Burns out in the sun.
During the cold period, installation is not possible.
Considered "not elite".

Characteristics of metal tiles

Scheme of a metal roof.

The metal tile lives up to its name, as it really looks like a tile. But, unlike real tiles, these are textured metal sheets, from 0.4 mm thick, of various sizes and colors. The minimum should be 15 degrees, the maximum slope is not limited. With a slope of up to 20 degrees, the joints must be sealed without fail.

Metal tiles are easy to mount using both roofing screws and ordinary nails. The overlap along the slope should be at least 250 mm, across - by 1 corrugation.
This type of roofing is used very widely both in individual construction and in the construction of industrial facilities, high-rise buildings.

If you want your home to look prestigious, but are not going to spend money on ceramic tiles, then metal tiles are the most suitable option.
The cost of a metal tile varies from 7 to 15 US dollars.

Advantages of choosing a metal tile:

Simple and fast installation.
The material is resistant to mechanical damage.
Light weight (3-5 kg/sq.m).
Does not break during transportation.

Cons of choosing a metal tile:

During installation, a large amount of waste is left.
Bad soundproofing.

Characteristics of asbestos-cement slabs (slate)

Scheme of a roof from a standard slate.

In the production of slate, 85% Portland cement and 15% asbestos are used. These are rectangular sheets measuring 120x70 cm (there are variations), the wave is 28 mm. Weight 1 sq.m - 10-15 kg. Slate sheets are laid on a standard crate, sealing material is usually laid before laying, the slate is fastened with nails with a wide galvanized hat.

The roof slope for slate is recommended from 12 to 60 degrees. Asbestos-cement slabs are recommended for use on objects of minor importance, although it is still used for private houses, cottages and summer cottages. It is used when they want to save money.

A few years ago, it became possible to extend the life of this type of roof and give such a roof a more presentable look. We are talking about a special slate paint, which began to be produced by some defense plants in our country.
The cost of asbestos-cement boards varies from 2 to 3 US dollars.

Advantages of choosing a slate:

It has decent strength properties.
Convenient for installation.
Easy to cut if needed.
Low price.

Cons of choosing slate:

Asbestos harms the human body.
Fragile material.
Over time, it accumulates moisture, both moss and fungus begin to grow on it.

Characteristics of metal roofs

Metal roofs (corrugated board) are divided into:

corrugated board;
steel seam roof;
copper seam roof;
aluminum seam roof.

Decking - metal corrugated or profiled sheets. Available with and without polymer coating. It comes in different sizes, the waves also have different configurations. Recommended - 10 degrees. The maximum is not standardized. When laying it is necessary to use a gasket made of glassine. This increases the waterproof properties. The corrugated board is fastened to the crate with self-tapping screws.

The joints are overlapped by 20 cm. It is desirable to treat each joint with a sealant. Decking is used for outbuildings, for industrial construction, but it is also often used for individual construction.
The cost of corrugated board depends on the shape and height of the wave and ranges from 8 to 10 US dollars.

Pros when choosing corrugated board:

Flexible and durable material.
Installation is easy and fast.
Very durable.
Low cost.

Cons when choosing corrugated board:

Very low sound insulation.

Steel seam roofing is smooth steel sheets, which can be galvanized or not, with or without a polymer coating. - 20 degrees, the maximum is not provided. The sheets are interconnected with the help of hooks with a special tool, a seam is formed at the joints. In the form of a gasket, an anti-condensation film is used. It is applied at installation of roofs of churches and ancient estates and on industrial objects.

Copper and aluminum seam roofing is a very expensive material, and at the same time very beautiful, it is not used in conventional construction. It is mainly used in the restoration of cathedrals, churches, historical buildings. The cost of a steel seam roof varies from 5 to 7 US dollars.

Characteristics of bituminous slate

The sheets look like slate, but have a different structure and color. In the manufacture of bituminous slate, cellulose impregnated with bitumen, treated with special resins, pigments and additives under high pressure and temperature is used.
Another name for bituminous slate is "flexible slate".

The minimum recommended slope when using this material is 5 degrees. Maximum - not standardized. With a minimum slope, the crate should be solid. For this, moisture-resistant plywood or board is used. Starting from a slope of 10 degrees, the crate is made in increments of 45 cm. With a slope of more than 15 degrees, the crate step increases.

Rolled waterproofing is used as a gasket. Due to its flexibility, this material is used on curved roofs. It is used both for individual construction and for the construction of industrial premises, for the roofs of restaurants, cafes.

The cost of this roofing material is 5-6 US dollars.

Pros when choosing a flexible slate:

Very light material, 3-5 kg/sq.m.
Convenient to work.
Wide selection of colors.

Cons when choosing a flexible slate:

Very hot.
Blooms in the sun.
The roof can "lead" from the heat.
Low frost resistance.

The most important characteristics that a roof should have are reliability and durability.

The house can be recognized from afar - by the roof. It is its expressiveness that largely determines the appearance of the building. Not only the shape of the slopes is important here, but also the roofing. There are a large number of materials for roof finishing, and choosing the right one often becomes a matter of not only practicality, but also prestige.

To begin with, it is worth distinguishing between the concepts of “roof” and “roof”, often referred to as synonyms. The roof is a complex multilayer structure that protects the house from precipitation and other influences from above. Roof - one of the elements of the roof, its final layer. It is she who takes the brunt of the combined forces of nature. Therefore, the main requirements for roofing materials are simple: they must be reliable, strong and durable.

Modern materials for pitched roofs are conventionally divided into three groups:

Rigid. This includes all types of metal tiles, profiled and smooth-rolled sheets, asbestos-cement and corrugated bitumen sheets.
Piece. This group includes type-setting ceramic, bituminous, clay, cement-sand tiles, as well as porcelain stoneware and slate.
Exotic. Straw, reeds, turf, other natural materials and various designer finds.

Metal

This type of roofing is most popular today in low-rise and cottage construction. It uses aluminum and copper profiles, galvanized steel and titanium-zinc alloys. Metal tiles, corrugated board, sheet or roll roofs are produced from these materials.

Metal tile. Expressive lightness

The metal tile repeats the classic laying of natural tiles, pleasing to the eye. Such a relief is obtained by stamping galvanized steel or aluminum with a paint and varnish coating. The variety of colors and textures of polymer coatings, various forms of stamping and simple installation - all this makes metal tiles the most popular roofing material.

Advantages

The low weight of the metal significantly reduces transportation costs and does not create additional load on the roof frame.
Sheets of metal tiles are easily and quickly attached to the crate with the help of roofing screws - 2 people lay up to 100 m2 per day.
High resistance to corrosion, incombustibility and excellent color retention make this roofing material reliable and durable.
The metal tile is on sale with a full set of accessories and drains.
This material wins in comparison with bituminous or natural tiles both in price and in the cost of preparatory and installation work.

To disadvantages metal tiles often carry high noise during rain and wind. However, the matter is not in the material, but in the device of the roof itself. With properly executed flooring, metal sheets fit snugly against the crate and do not knock on it. The same applies to the organization of drainage. The fraction of drops and gusts of wind with a properly installed metal tile will not disturb even the inhabitants of the attic floor.

Decking

It is known that a stiffener adds strength to an object. It is on this principle that corrugated board is created - profiled or corrugated sheets of galvanized steel.

The disadvantages and positive properties of this roofing material are similar to the characteristics of metal tiles. But there are also a number of features:

Waves of corrugated board can be of different heights and have the shape of a trapezoid, a sinusoid, a semicircle, etc.
Coating with multi-colored polymers emphasizes the uniqueness of the configuration of this roof and makes it a completely independent product, one might even say - a competitor to metal tiles.

Decking or metal tiles are just a matter of taste, as many experts note.

seam roof

This coating is made of sheet or rolled galvanized steel, copper and zinc-titanium. It is also possible to apply a polymer layer. The peculiarity of the seam roof is the method of installation. The sheets here are bent at the edge in the form of a groove, which is called a fold. The groove-to-groove connection forms a reliable lock without through holes and completely eliminates roof leakage. Lying folds are used for horizontal fastening, standing - for vertical arrangement of sheets on a slope. After connecting the elements, the seam seam is rolled up manually using a mallet or special tools. There are also models with a self-locking lock.

Advantages

Quick and easy installation. The thickness of the material varies from 0.45 mm to 0.80 mm. The sheets have a width of 60 to 80 cm.
The roof is resistant to corrosion over the entire area, as the sheets are tightly inserted into each other and do not leave the slightest chance for aggressive environments.
The smooth surface promotes good running off of water and a descent of snow.
The low weight of the material allows the use of lighter roof support structures.

disadvantages

Only highly qualified specialists with professional tools will be able to mount correctly.
Loses in appearance to any tiles.
Requires additional noise insulation and grounding.
You can't walk on the seam roof. If you need minor repairs, this is very inconvenient.

Classics and contemporaries: slate

Profiled sheet non-metal roofing is an economical option for covering pitched roofs of simple geometry.

Classical asbestos-cement slate is obtained from a mixture of Portland cement, asbestos and water, forming into corrugated sheets. Cement fiber slate is reinforced with cellulose, polyacrylic or short linen fibers.

Advantages

Low thermal conductivity.
Good noise reduction.
Not hot.
Ready for painting. This increases the service life.

The sheets are laid along the slope of the roof on a wooden crate and fixed with screws or galvanized nails, under the caps of which rubber washers are placed. Each sheet is overlapped by another by one wave and by 1.5-3 cm with a sheet of the upper row, it depends on the steepness of the roof.

At the stage of transportation and installation, the main disadvantages of slate appear:

Fragility.
Requires extremely careful storage, transportation and installation.
Leaks occur due to damage and displacement of individual elements, as well as loosening of roof fasteners.
Requires regular maintenance, repair and renewal.

Euroslate is recycled cardboard or organic fibers pressed into corrugated sheets and bonded with bitumen. Covered with a colored vinyl-acrylic polymer with good color fastness. Also, paint can be added to the material at the production stage.

Advantages

Lightweight and durable. Withstands snow up to 300 kg/m2.
Doesn't rot or rust.
Excellent noise absorption.
It bends. Suitable for surfaces with a radius of curvature from 5 m.

disadvantages

The material is very sensitive to ultraviolet radiation. Heats up quickly and can sag on the batten if not thick enough.
Bitumen crumbles under the influence of freezing and thawing water.
combustible
Due to the displacement of the layers, roof leaks occur.

Tiling: a living legend

Tiles have been established on the roofs of houses since time immemorial. More than 5000 years ago, it was already widely used in East Asia. In Europe, tiles became popular in the 16th century - and for a long time determined the architectural image of the Old World. Today it is still relevant - both classic clay and improved with the help of modern technologies.

Natural tile is a durable, strong and environmentally friendly material. According to the initial raw material, it is divided into cement-sand, polymer-sand and ceramic. All types have a service life of up to 100 years, they perfectly tolerate low temperatures, do not burn, and extinguish the noise of rain and hail.

Ceramic tiles are made from clay, molded under high pressure and fired at temperatures above 1000 0C. It turns out a sintered shard that does not allow moisture to pass through. There are several basic forms for different types of roofs and installation methods. The kit also includes special elements (end, passage, side, etc.), the number of which increases with the complexity of the roof geometry.

Advantages

Service life up to 100 years, manufacturer's warranty - 20–30 years.
The highest resistance to non-mechanical influences: humidity, ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes.
The type-setting principle allows literally wrapping shards around any bends of the roof.
Environmentally friendly material.
It is easy to replace the damaged item.
Good soundproofing.
Unconditional prestige.

disadvantages

Rather expensive material, especially high-quality glazed tiles.
Installation is done manually. This increases the cost of the work.
Large weight of elements. As a result, increased requirements for the strength of the roof frame.
Fragility. It manifests itself with a certain physical impact.
Suitable only for low-rise residential construction. In other cases, the use of a tiled roof is most often not rational.

Cement-sand and polymer-sand tiles made from sifted sand and fastened with a cement or polymer binder. Coloring occurs during the manufacturing process when an inorganic pigment is added to the solution. Most often, the colors range in brick tones - from yellow to dark red and brown, but green and black are also popular.

Cement-sand tiles are almost identical in properties to natural ones, but cost 2 times cheaper. Polymer-sand tiles have more unique advantages:

It is lightweight and durable. It weighs 2 times less than ceramics - 21 kg / m2.
Does not require reinforced rafters.
Does not break during transportation and installation.
The disadvantages include:
Toxic dyes added by unscrupulous manufacturers.
Poor-quality polymer-sand tiles manifest themselves after 2-3 seasons, when it starts to burn out.
Builders also complain about the lack of elements necessary for laying tiles.

Bituminous tiles. Soft approach

Soft bituminous tiles - small flat sheets with curly cuts along one edge. The range of colors - from traditional red to decorative mosses. The color and roughness of the texture gives a stone or mineral powder. In terms of expressiveness, it almost surpasses other roofing materials.

Advantages

Solid waterproofing layer. When heated in the sun, bitumen softens and firmly glues all the elements together.
Complete absorption of the noise of the elements. The soft material perfectly dampens the impact of rain and hail.
Light weight.
Easy installation. Bituminous tiles fit perfectly even on roofs with complex geometries.
Due to its "rubber" properties, it does not attract atmospheric electricity. A lightning rod on such a roof is not needed.

disadvantages

Difficult repairs that require professionals. One sheet cannot be replaced.
A solid base and cushioning carpet is required. This leads to an increase in the cost of the roofing system.
Ventilation of the under-roof space is obligatory.
It is impossible to walk on the flooring in hot weather, as it is rumpled, stains remain. Need special holes.

It's good to have a roof over your head. But before comfort and peace reign in your private house, you have to make this very roof.

And for this you need to choose a roofing material that will not rust in a couple of years, not turn into a leaky sieve. Material on which the rain will not rumble, turning your life into a real extreme. We decided to disassemble each roof “down to the screw” and create the most independent and unbiased expert review.

About the metal tile frankly

Metal tile is one of the most popular roofing materials. Lightweight and strong enough sheets are durable, non-flammable. Such a roof will withstand both the scorching sun and severe frosts. Another benefit is the beauty of the new roof. It is possible to choose a coating of almost any color and shade that will be in harmony with the walls and the overall design of the site.

Disadvantages:

you will constantly hear the “drumroll” of rain and hail (even with good soundproofing);
it is necessary to carefully insulate the roof, because thin metal freezes through;
the coating is easily damaged, after which the sheets will begin to rust;

Ceramic tiles: expensive and cumbersome

Durable and solid material, frost-resistant, absorbs noise well. It is possible to cover the roof with an angle of inclination from 20-22 to 60 degrees.

Disadvantages:

expensive material;
heavy weight, gives a load on the walls and foundation and is not suitable for all houses;
requires a strong frame.

Bitumen is not subject to corrosion and does not rot, it itself is a good heat insulator. Such a roof will be silent and durable, subject to the installation rules (the angle of inclination of the roof must be more than 12 degrees).

Disadvantages:

you need to make a solid foundation, and these are additional costs;
fades and becomes soft in the sun;
in the cold, the material becomes brittle.

Decking is a thin and light material. You can cover the roof with it yourself, it is quite easy to work with it. Relatively resistant to mechanical stress. Tilt angle (minimum) - 12 degrees.

Disadvantages:

thin metal is susceptible to corrosion and can rot over time;
very much transmits noise, like a metal tile;
you need to make a good crate and expensive thermal insulation - otherwise in the attic in winter it will be the same temperature as on the street;
a lot of material goes to waste, so for all its low price, the material is not so profitable.

Ondulin - reliable and soundly

The roofing material has an official website:

Ondulin can be mounted independently, it is suitable for a roof with a slope angle of 5 degrees. The material is relatively light, does not give a large load on the walls and foundation. Ondulin can cover the roof of a complex structure - it bends well along the "wave".

The material is suitable for any climatic conditions, it protects well from frost and the scorching sun. Another advantage is the natural sound insulation.

Ondulin will not start to leak (manufacturers give a guarantee for water resistance up to 15 years!), It does not crack or collapse, and during operation it only becomes stronger, as it seizes “tightly”.

If after a while something happens to your roof, then it will be possible to replace the damaged area, and not block the entire roof. This is perhaps the best choice for a reasonable price - the merits of the material have already been appreciated by zealous owners. And experts praise it very much for its practicality and quality factor - it really serves up to 50 years.

Disadvantages:

fades over time, because it fades in the sun (not quickly);
you need to make a good crate to ensure the rigidity of the structure. But frankly speaking, this moment is also not a minus, since the correct crate is the key to the strength of the roof and the whole house. Subject to compliance with all requirements, an ondulin roof can withstand wind loads up to 225 km / h and snow loads up to 960 kg / m 2.

The upper element of the roof, which protects the house from the influence of natural manifestations and mechanical influences, is called the roof. Roof covering not only performs practical functions, but also creates a general appearance of the entire building. Therefore, the choice of the optimal material for covering the roof is very important. A variety of types of roofing for the roofs of private houses can make a person inexperienced in these matters confused. But having at least general knowledge about the quality and functionality of a particular type of material, you can successfully choose the right roofing.

What you should pay attention to:

Fire resistance and durability;

architectural solutions.

Metal roof

These types of roofing material for the roofs of a private house are lightweight, which makes it possible to lay them on lightweight roofs. The strength of the metal tile allows it to withstand human weight.

She possesses

Fire resistance and frost resistance;

It has a wide color palette, so with its help you can realize the most daring design ideas and make a private house original and unusual;

In addition, tiles can have a wave shape, be cascading, Roman, differ in size and thickness.

Color solutions for metal tiles

Cons of metal roofing:

Poor sound insulation of the house, which is especially noticeable during rain or hail;

A small level of thermal insulation;

A fragile protective layer that is easily damaged during transport or installation.

This is what the sheet looks like up close.

The cost of such roofing material varies from 200 to 700 rubles per sheet.

Roofing from corrugated board

Profiled metal sheets that have a wide color palette are called corrugated board. They are usually made of galvanized steel and given a recognizable wave shape to ensure rigidity.

Pros of corrugated roofing:

Light weight;

Long service life;

Ease of installation;

Environmental friendliness and versatility for any home;

Variety of colors;

Beautiful exterior of the house.

However, this roofing material also has a number of disadvantages:

The house heats up quickly in the sun;

May corrode if damaged.

Has a high noise level during rain;

If the installation of corrugated board was carried out by non-professionals, then the tightness may be broken.

The cost of corrugated board is small - from 150 rubles per linear meter.

Ondulin roof

For the manufacture of ondulin sheets, cellulose fiber, refined bitumen, mineral filler are used, and it is impregnated with a polymer resin. This material for the roof of a private house has high technical characteristics, which allows it to compete with other materials of this kind.

The main advantages of ondulin roofing:

Environmental friendliness;

High soundproofing properties of the house;

This option is resistant to UV rays;

Resistance to fungi, mold, insect damage;

Light weight.

The disadvantages of ondulin are:

Weak resistance to temperature fluctuations;

Low level of fire safety;

Relatively short service life (up to 25 years).

The cost of options for this material for roofing ranges from 300 to 600 rubles per sheet measuring 1.95 * 0.96 m.

Slate roof

This type of roofing material for the roof, like slate, has been very popular for a long time. It is made from a mixture of asbestos and cement. Sometimes slate is painted in different colors to match the color of the house, but most often used in its original form, that is, in gray.

Advantages of asbestos-cement slate:

Strength;

Does not warm up in the sun;

Does not conduct electricity;

Good maintainability;

Not combustibility;

Not susceptible to corrosion.

Slate replacement photo

The disadvantages of slate roofing include:

The fragility of building materials;

Great weight;

Ability to absorb rain and melt water.

As for the cost, it is quite low - from 150 rubles for a standard sheet.

Flexible roof tiles

The flexible tile has a high-tech and multilayer structure and consists of fiberglass impregnated with bitumen and various polymer additives.

Advantages of shingle roofs:

Environmental friendliness and safety;

Flexibility and plasticity;

Water resistance;

Durability;

Respectable appearance;

Resistance to mechanical influences.

Flexible tiles can be of different colors

This type of roofing for the roofs of private houses has some disadvantages:

It is difficult to replace a single element, the tile heats up quickly in the scorching sun.

Also, the high cost of such material can be added to the minuses - from 200 rubles per square meter.

Roll built-up roofing

Multilayer guide roll material is made on the basis of fiberglass, polymers or bitumen.

Its advantages:

High strength, which reduces the chance of tearing during styling;

Good vapor permeability;

Ease;

Environmental friendliness;

Variety of design;

Possibility of sealing seams by heat welding.

The disadvantages of this roofing option for the roofs of private houses include:

Not very attractive appearance;

Low fire resistance;

The possibility of slipping at large angles of inclination (30 degrees or more).

The price of such roofing material is small - from 350 rubles per roll of 9 m².

The roof is an integral part of the supporting structure of any home and performs important protective functions. It protects the building from the effects of environmental factors and heat loss, and is responsible for maintaining a comfortable microclimate inside the building. That is why its arrangement should be taken seriously, observing building codes and regulations.

Starting, the owner must decide on the type of future roof at the design stage. The strength, reliability, practicality and aesthetics of the future structure depend on this. What kind of roof to choose for the house? How to choose the right roof? And most importantly, how to be guided in the selection process? We will try to find answers to these questions in this article.

Which roof is better for a house: the main selection criteria

When deciding which roof is best suited for the building structure and which roof covering to choose, it is necessary to proceed from:
- placement of the house relative to sea level;
- climatic conditions and environmental pollution of the area;
- the planned functional purpose of the under-roof space;
- features of the architecture of the building;
- his design.

All of these criteria play an important role in the selection process, and the best roof for a house satisfies each of them.

So, if a building is erected at an altitude of less than 400 meters above sea level, then any structural type of roof can be used for it, if at a height of 400 to 600 meters, it is necessary to arrange only a two-layer, non-flat upper ceiling. In areas remote from the city, where the air is little dusty and polluted with emissions, all types of roofing materials, both thin and thick, can be used. In ecologically polluted areas, the best roof for a house is thick, solid, with minimal porosity and permeability. In regions with a hot climate, the roof should be covered with non-combustible, flame-resistant materials. In regions with a temperate climate, a roof should be used that can better withstand sudden changes in temperature. If an attic is planned under the roof, then the roof should also have an attic structure, if an attic is planned, then the covering of the house should be attic.

It is important that the roof matches the architectural and stylistic concept of the building. When deciding which roof color to choose and how to choose the shape of the roof, it must be remembered that both color and shape should be in harmony with the facade, emphasizing the external attractiveness of the entire building. The first impression of the house depends on this.

What is the best roof? Design Options

To decide which roof is better to make for your home or summer cottage, you need to know what constructive roof options exist today. The top covering of the house is horizontal (flat) or inclined, pitched. The horizontal structure has no slope. Its absolutely flat surface traps atmospheric precipitation and does not remove them from the roof. This leads to leaks, damage and rapid deterioration of the roof. The pitched structure is arranged at a slope, its parts are connected at an angle. Due to this, atmospheric precipitation does not accumulate on the surface of the pitched roof, the roof is not damaged and serves as the top floor of the house for many years.

Depending on the number of inclined elements, roofs are divided into one-, two-, four-slope, multi-gable and hip. Depending on the shape of the slopes on: hipped and domed with rounded inclined surfaces; conical with elongated and connected into a spire slopes and roofs of the original design. How to choose a roof for a house from the listed varieties? based on their strengths and weaknesses. They are listed in the overviews below.

Shed roofs. They are arranged from one inclined surface, which rests on two load-bearing walls of different heights and is located above the entire area of \u200b\u200bthe house. They are simple and inexpensive to install, they wear out more slowly due to the absence of stressed elements, but they resist the wind worse, exclude the possibility of building good thermal insulation, an attic or an attic.

Double pitched roofs. They are mounted from two equal slopes, which are installed on opposite sides of the house, rest on load-bearing walls and are interconnected in the ridge. They are practical, efficient in terms of water drainage, do not require the use of complex building technologies for installation, and have an attractive appearance. Under them, you can always place a heating system, organize an attic or attic. However, the dimensions of gable roofs depend on the parameters of the house, and the larger they are, the larger the size of the roof and the more material is needed for its construction.

Quadruple roofs. They are arranged from two triangular and two trapezoidal slopes. They are characterized by increased strength, reliability, resistance to external loads. Allows maximum use of the usable area of the under-roof space. But the weight of four-pitched structures is large, they can only be installed on thick and strong walls. When installing such roofs, additional engineering calculations and material costs are required.

Hip roofs. They are considered a kind of four-slope. They are arranged from a gable structure, which does not completely cover the length of the house, and two inclined hips that cover the remaining space.

Multi-gable roofs. They include a different number of pitched elements, have a complex structure and are most suitable for multi-level buildings. They look original and presentable. Thanks to the many slopes, they significantly increase the living space. However, their construction is costly and laborious. With an abundance of precipitation, snow and rain can linger on their surface, which accumulate in the corners between the slopes. And this complicates the process of water removal and requires the creation of a complex system for its removal.

Domed, hipped, conical and other unusually shaped roofs look beautiful, but have a complex truss system. Therefore, their installation is the most expensive.

How to choose the angle of the roof and its height

The slope and height of the roof are determined by the architectural, stylistic features of the house. If it is built in a classical style, then it should have a large cover with a slope angle of 40-45º. The height of the roof should be 1/3 of the height of the entire building. When deciding how to choose a roof angle for a house built in the modern style, you should remember that modernity is characterized by smooth lines. Therefore, the angle of inclination should be less than 40º, and the height should be about 1/4 of the height of the entire building. If the house is being built in the Gothic style, then for its pointed roof you should choose a large angle of about 60º.

Architectural fashion is changeable, and today you can find buildings of intricate shape, original design and decoration. But, whatever the stylistic execution of the dwelling, the question of how to choose the height of the roof should be guided by several general principles. The principles of proportionality, practicality and aesthetics. The roof must not:
- "hang" on the windows;
- be "planted" too high above them;
- to give the impression of "pressing" on the whole house.
Excessively high coverage of the house will pull all the attention.

When deciding which corner of the roof to choose, one should take into account the peculiarities of the climate of the region. If the climate is windy, then the slope should not exceed 45º, so that the load on the roof is not too large, and should not be less than 10º, so that the roof does not tear off the roof during strong gusts of wind. If the climate is characterized by heavy snowfalls in winter, then the slope angle should be 40-45º. If it is less, the snow load on the roof will exceed the allowable one. In regions with low rainfall, the slope angle can be 30º.

Roofing for the roof: how to choose what it is?

The main role in the reliability of the roof is played by the roof, or rather the material from which it is made. The strength, durability and stability of the roof depend on the quality characteristics of this material.

The modern market of roofing materials offers consumers the widest range of products. Before you choose a roof for your home, you need to familiarize yourself with it.

All roofing materials are usually classified according to composition, release form and rigidity. Depending on what they are made of, they are divided into:
- mineral - made on the basis of natural slate, ardrogres and minerals (slate tiles);
- ceramic - produced on the basis of clay ();
- bituminous - made from oil refining products with the addition of organic substances (bituminous tiles, bituminous slate);
- metal - produced from zinc, copper and aluminum alloys (, galvanized profiled sheets);
- cement - produced on the basis of sand, asbestos, Portland cement (cement-sand tiles, slate);
- polymeric - are made on the basis of synthetic rubber and PVC (polycarbonate, polypropylene, membranes).

Depending on the form of release, roofing materials are divided into:
- piece (tile);
- sheet (profiled sheets, slate,);
- rolled (rolled membranes, polypropylene).

Depending on the rigidity, materials are divided into:
- soft - roll, polymer;
- solid - piece and sheet of cement, metal, ceramics, slate.

Which roof is better to choose? And what material is better to cover the roof? The answer to these questions cannot be unambiguous, because the universal concept of “the best material for a roof” does not exist. For each specific building, its own roof is selected.

How to choose a roofing material? Experts recommend that the analysis be based on the architecture of the roof, on the conditions of its future operation and the desired durability; proceed from the possible loads that will be exerted on the roof from wind and precipitation, as well as from their own material capabilities. If you take into account all of these factors, then you can easily determine the best roof covering.

What is the best roof? Overview of the most common materials

To understand which roofing material is better, and decide what is better to make a roof from, you need to know the features, advantages and disadvantages of roofing materials. Most often in private construction, tiles, slate and bituminous sheets are used. We provide a brief overview of them below.

Tiling. It is a 30x30 cm tile. It can be ceramic, metal, bituminous and cement-sand. The slope at which it can be used is 20-60º. Service life is about 20-30 years. It is characterized by a low degree of flammability, porous and "breathing" structure, high resistance to corrosion, low temperatures. When choosing what material is better to cover the roof, it should be borne in mind that the tile is a heavy, fragile material. When installing multi-gable roofs, it entails technological difficulties.

Slate. Represents rectangular embossed sheets of asbestos and Portland cement measuring 1.2x0.7m. The slope of the roof, at which it can be used, is from 12 to 60º. Service life is about 30-40 years. Differs in durability, resistance to loadings and low cost. When deciding which material for the roof is better, you need to remember that slate is able to accumulate moisture, and therefore is exposed to many biogenic factors.

Bitumen sheets (euro slate) Represent a rectangular corrugated material 2x1m in size. The minimum slope at which it can be used is 5º. The maximum slope is not standardized and can be anything. The service life is about 15-20 years. The sheets are distinguished by a variety of colors, attractive appearance, light weight and ease of installation. However, when determining how best to cover the roof, it must be taken into account that euroslate is characterized by low frost resistance and belongs to combustible flammable materials.