Top Trends and Innovations in Residential Roof Design

Top Trends and Innovations in Residential Roof Design

Lately, there have been countless trends popping up in residential roof design, from flat roofs to eco-friendly roofing material options that combine style and sustainability. At Maupin Roofing, we like to stay ahead of the curve by keeping tabs on the latest roofing system innovations so we can offer our clients options that meet their preferences and fit the architectural styles of their homes. Here, you’ll find some of the most exciting residential roofing trends to watch out for, including different types of roof designs and materials.

1. Green and Eco-Friendly Roofing

House with green roofing.(33)

These days, homeowners aren’t just looking for roof types that look great from the street, but they’re also looking for a type of roof with a positive environmental impact. Given how much climate change is affecting the world, many homeowners are leaning toward eco-friendly roofing materials and roof styles.

Green roofs, for example, have seen a surge in popularity as of late. More people are considering it because aside from their unique and eye-catching appearance, they also have benefits like insulation which can help lower energy consumption and costs. Additionally, there are a lot of sustainable roofing materials like recycled asphalt shingles, clay tiles, and concrete tiles. Using these sustainable materials is the first step toward cutting down waste and conserving natural resources, making it a great option that not only benefits your home but also the planet.

Smart roofing with solar panels.

We can definitely see proof of technological advancements in the roofing industry when we look at smart roofing. Simply put, it’s a roof style that comes with sensors designed to track various data like temperature, moisture levels, and even potential roof leaks. More than that, you can also integrate smart roofs with home automation systems. This means you can easily control different functions from your phone, such as ventilation and solar panel commands.

All in all, smart roofs are probably one of the most impressive trends lately. They allow homeowners to catch roofing issues without even having to climb onto the roof for physical inspection. Their convenient accessibility and energy-efficient features also make them a top choice for those looking to save up on energy bills.

3. Energy-Efficient Roofing

A professional installing solar panels on a roof.

Energy-efficient roofing materials and options are slowly becoming a big thing in residential roof design—and for a good reason!

A solar panel roof converts natural light into power, which can then be used in the household. As a result, people who use solar panels or solar shingles don’t have to worry too much about electricity bills and get to save money. However, it’s worth noting that getting a solar roof is an investment, meaning you’ll have to think about a significant upfront payment. Still, it’s an investment that definitely pays off over time due to its energy-efficient features.

On the other hand, cool roofing materials are a more budget-friendly alternative if you’re looking for energy-efficient roofing. These roof types are specifically designed to reflect sunlight off its surface and retain less heat. This can make a huge difference in keeping homes cooler during hot summer months and saving up on energy bills since your air conditioning will run more efficiently.

4. Modular Roofing

Roofers assembling a modular roof.

Modular roofing is the answer if you’re looking for a quick and easy roof installation. Basically, modular roofing refers to pre-fabricated materials like panels, roof beams, and tiles. These ready-to-assemble materials are put together on-site, which reduces construction time and overall hassle.

Additionally, modular roofing is customizable. For example, if you want more roof space, you can have extra panels or sections added. There’s also a wide range of colors and styles to choose from. This flexibility makes it possible for you to design a roof that perfectly fits your home’s architectural styles as well as your needs and preferences.

5. Climate-Resistant Roofing

Client-resistant roofing covered in snow.

Many homeowners prioritize their roof’s weather resistance, which explains why climate-resistant roofing has become quite prominent lately. This type of roof is specially made from materials that can withstand harsh climates without taking any major damage.

For example, impact-resistant shingles are constructed from polymer-modified asphalt, making them a sturdier, upgraded version of traditional shingles. So, if you live in a region that regularly experiences harsh weather that often leads to roofing issues and expensive repairs, climate-resistant roofing is the way to go.

6. Metal Roofing

Close-up of metal roofing.

Metal roofing is a staple in the roofing industry and remains one of the top trends in residential roof materials because of its undeniable benefits. For starters, metal roofs have a long lifespan, most of them lasting for 50 years or more. With a metal roof, you can also expect it to handle different weather conditions well, including high winds, heavy rain, and hail.

On top of all that, metal roofing is also energy efficient. The metal panels do a great job of bouncing sunlight off its surface, which prevents the absorption of too much heat during warmer seasons. In turn, this reduces energy consumption and lowers electricity bills.

7. Flat Roofing

A patio on a flat roof.

While flat roofing is commonly used for commercial properties, many homeowners are now opting for it as a stylish and sturdy choice for their residential roofs. In terms of appearance, a flat roof gives off a modern vibe that many homeowners seem to be leaning toward lately. Now, in terms of practicality and functionality, flat roofs are appealing because they offer a lot of extra space that can be repurposed for things like rooftop gardens, solar panels, and patios.

Aside from that, flat roofs are quite easy to install compared to more traditional types of roof designs. Flat roofs typically use roof materials like modified bitumen or rubber which are engineered to be weather-resistant and long-lasting, meaning less worries about leaks or damage from harsh weather.

8. PVC Roofing

PVC on a flat roof.

Made from polyvinyl chloride, PVC roofing is a membrane that’s rolled out and installed on the roof surface. After properly fastening them to the roof deck, you’re left with a strong, waterproof barrier that can last for more than 20 years when properly maintained.

What’s more, PVC is a recyclable material which makes it an eco-friendly option compared to traditional roofing materials. Also, PVC roofing has plenty of color and style options, so it’s easy to find something that fits your home’s appearance and aesthetic.

Popular Contemporary Roof Designs for Residential Properties

Modern house.

Curious about what the most popular contemporary roof designs are in residential spaces? Here are some of the top designs that perfectly blend style with practical function:

Shed Roof or Skillion Roof

Shed roofs, also known as skillion roofs, have a very contemporary design that draws in a lot of modern-style architecture enthusiasts. Its appearance is unique, but it also serves a function—the one-sided slope makes rainwater drainage easier and helps prevent leaks and water damage. Shed roofs also result in a more spacious interior and higher ceilings, which once again fit perfectly into the modern aesthetic.

Butterfly Roof

If there’s a battle of unique roof shapes, butterfly roofs definitely take the gold medal. As the name suggests, this roof style resembles the wings of a butterfly in flight. It’s basically an inverted gable roof with two roof surfaces sloping inward to meet in the middle.

Many homeowners add large windows or skylights to their butterfly roofs to take advantage of the slopes’ inward angles and get as much natural light as they can. This roofing is mostly used for homes located in arid or desert climates for easy rainwater collection and ventilation.

Curved Roof

Curved roofs veer away from traditional roofing styles, making them stand out. For homeowners looking for something creative and distinct, curved roofs are a top choice. They make for an interesting interior space as the arch opens up the ceiling, making the space appear more spacious and elegant. The curved shape also makes it easier to deal with various weather conditions like snow and rain.

Sawtooth Roof

If you have a sawtooth roof, it’s definitely going to turn heads. Sawtooth roofs look like the teeth of a saw, hence the name. This style features multiple ridges and peaks that paint an interesting architectural design. They’re great for maximizing natural light and airflow, reducing the need for artificial lighting, and creating a welcoming interior.

A-Frame Roof

A-frame roofs are a classic and they’re making a comeback lately in contemporary residential roof design. They’re characterized by a triangular shape that’s just as steep and pointed as the letter “A.” They’re known for helping water and snow easily slide off, thus reducing risks of leaks and damage. Aside from that, the steep slopes make for an airier interior and extra attic space.

Hybrid Roof

When you combine a skillion roof with other roof types or a butterfly roof with other styles like a flat roof, a hybrid roof is what you get. The fun thing about combination roofs is that there aren’t any rules—as long as it’s functional and appeals to your tastes, you’re free to mix and match whichever roof type you’d like.

Trendy Traditional Roof Designs With a Modern Twist

Traditional home.

Various roof styles and trends are influenced by traditional roof designs. Nowadays, they all have a modern twist to them that makes them blend in well with contemporary designs. Here are some examples of trendy traditional roof styles with a contemporary touch:

Gable Roof

If there’s a roof design that never goes out of style, it’s definitely gable roofs. The front gable roof is a default pitched roof style in most places, and it’s also probably the first roof design you think of when asked to picture one. It’s simple design is something we’re all familiar with—a timeless, triangular shape with two sloping sides.

Though traditional and classic, gable roofs are still quite prominent today. The modern twist comes in how they now tend to feature sleek materials, larger overhangs, and interesting accents like metal roofing or exposed beams. You can also find asymmetrical gable roofs that give off a contemporary vibe.

Gambrel Roof

Gambrel roofs are basically barn roofs. They share similar styles with French roofs (or mansard roofs) as both styles feature a double slope on each side of the roof. Gambrel roofs are known for maximizing attic space and creating a distinctive exterior appearance. In modern designs, you might see a gambrel roof paired with big windows and polished siding for a more updated look.

Hip Roof or Hipped Roof

You’ll recognize hip roofs by their four sloping sides that meet at the peak. These days, architects are adding a modern touch to the traditional hip roof by combining it with open layouts and large, minimalist windows. This creates a bright and roomy appearance inside, which is one of the main characteristics of contemporary design.

Jerkinhead Roof

Jerkinhead roofs are a blend of hip roofs and gable roofs. It’s basically a gable roof, but it softens the edges of the slopes by angling them toward the ground, which is a hip roof characteristic. This gives it a smoother, rounded look that easily stands out. Nowadays, you might see modern materials and elements integrated into jerkinhead roofs, offering a fresh take on a classic style.

A similar roof style that combines hip roofs and gable roofs is the Dutch gable roof which has a gable roof on top while the lower portion of the roof slopes down like a hip roof.

Special Mentions

While less popular, these traditional roof designs are still relevant in residential roof design:

  • Dome Roof: With a rounded shape, dome roofs look like a half-sphere sitting atop a building. While often seen in gazebos and churches, some homeowners have included dome roofs in their residences to make a unique architectural statement.

  • Mansard Roof: Mansard roofs are a nod to French architecture that’s found new life in today’s homes. It features two slopes—the lower one steep and the upper one much gentler. It creates an interesting silhouette that many homeowners are drawn to.

  • Bonnet Roof: Characterized by its double slope, a bonnet roof not only looks charming but also offers excellent outdoor living space. It’s gaining popularity in modern southern homes and creates stylish covers for porches or patios.

Maupin Roofing: Dependable Residential Roofing Solutions

Looking for roofing OKC services? We’re the top roofing contractor in OKC, offering expert residential services to those in need. So, if you need to replace or repair your existing roof, we’re the pros to count on!

Give us a call at (405) 703-3843 to get started right away!