New England roofing has come a long way since its early days. Back then, roofs were made of hay and local vegetation, commonly called thatch.
Today, roofing provides year-round protection from the elements and even helps homeowners save significant energy. From roof styles and shapes to pitch and slope, this ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about New England roofs.
What are the Common Roof Styles in New England?
New England is full of homes in every style, from quaint cottages to sleek modern builds. Roofs play a big part in shaping that charm. When it comes to New England roof styles, here are some of the most common you’ll see:
Gable Roof
Imagine two slopes coming together at a peak, like an open book standing on its spine—that’s a gable roof.
This style is simple and recognizable with its triangular shape. It’s quite effective at shedding snow and rain, making it a popular choice in areas that experience heavy winter storms.
You’ll often see this roof style on Cape Cod homes, charming cottages, and suburban houses. Its classic shape perfectly complements traditional architecture.
Quick Facts:
Cost: $5–$8 per square foot
Average Lifespan: Around 40 years
Maintenance Needs: Moderate
Best Climates: Temperate and snowy regions
Efficiency Features: Good ventilation
Other Benefits: Simple, affordable, and offers excellent drainage
Hip Roof
A hip roof slopes on all four sides and comes together at the top to form a ridge. Think of it as a more sophisticated version of the gable roof, with all sides sloping downward to the walls—no vertical ends here.
This design provides stability and durability, which is great for windy regions. Hip roofs are often seen on ranch-style homes and larger, colonial residences, where their refined look enhances the overall aesthetic of the house.
Quick Facts:
Cost: $8–$12 per square foot
Average Lifespan: 40–50 years
Maintenance Needs: Low
Best Climates: Windy areas
Efficiency Features: Good insulation
Other Benefits: Excellent wind resistance and a stable, sturdy structure
Mansard Roof
A mansard roof is a bit more complex, featuring two different slopes on each of its four sides. The lower slope is particularly steep, almost vertical, while the upper slope is more gentle.
French architecture originated this style, which allows for additional living space under the roof that can serve as a full attic or living quarters. Victorian homes typically feature mansard roofs, adding a touch of elegance and old-world flair.
Quick Facts:
Cost: Typically on the higher end due to complexity
Average Lifespan: 30–50 years
Maintenance Needs: Moderate to high
Best Climates: Suitable for a variety of climates, but especially where additional attic space is valuable
Efficiency Features: Maximizes usable interior space
Other Benefits: Adds sophistication and increases living area
Gambrel Roof
Picture the roof on a classic barn—that’s a gambrel roof. It features two different slopes on either side: the lower part of the slope is steep and the upper part is much shallower.
This design not only looks distinctive but also provides extra space underneath, which is why it’s perfect for storage or living areas. Gambrel roofs are most commonly associated with Dutch Colonial and Georgian style homes, where they help create a spacious and inviting atmosphere.
Quick Facts:
Cost: Moderate, varies based on materials
Average Lifespan: 30–50 years
Maintenance Needs: Moderate
Best Climates: Well-suited to areas with heavy snowfall, thanks to excellent drainage
Efficiency Features: Maximizes attic or loft space
Other Benefits: Classic look, ideal for larger upper floors or storage
Other Noteworthy Roof Styles in New England
While the above are the headliners, New England architecture sometimes also features:
Flat Roofs: Found more often on modern homes or urban buildings, these can support rooftop gardens or patios but require more maintenance.
Butterfly Roofs: Rare but striking, these are modern, V-shaped roofs ideal for solar panels and rainwater collection.
Curved and Domed Roofs: Occasionally seen on coastal or custom homes, these unique shapes offer aerodynamic benefits and a distinctive profile.
Each style brings its own advantages in terms of cost, longevity, and suitability for our unpredictable New England weather. Whether you favor tradition or modern flair, there’s a roof style to match every taste and need.
Maintenance and Installation Challenges for Popular Roof Types
Each roof style has unique charm, but also unique challenges for installation and upkeep. Homeowners should consider these factors carefully before choosing a style. And if you’re planning DIY maintenance, think twice before climbing the ladder with a toolbox on a crisp autumn day.
Hip Roofs
Hip roofs look stately with their four-sided slopes, but their complex angles make installation challenging. Cutting rafters, placing underlayment correctly, and sealing ridge joints take more time and materials. Patience is a must.
Long term, the valleys and ridges collect leaves and debris easily. Keeping gutters clear and inspecting for leaks is critical, especially after storms.
Gable Roofs
Gable roofs are the most popular style thanks to their simple design, but they still require maintenance. Sharp angles and extended eaves can catch strong winds, especially during nor’easters. This puts shingles and flashing at risk.
Regular inspections along ridges and valleys help prevent water leaks. In windy areas, reinforcing connections is essential. The good news is that gable roof repairs are usually less labor-intensive compared to more complex styles.
Flat Roofs
Despite their name, flat roofs always have a subtle pitch for drainage—but one clogged drain and you’re hosting a rooftop swimming pool. Proper installation is key: watertight membranes require precision, and seams are vulnerable spots for leaks. Flat roofs, such as those surfaced with built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen, or EPDM rubber, are also more exposed to the elements, meaning routine clearing of debris and regular professional inspections are part of the deal if you want to avoid costly repairs.
Butterfly Roofs
Butterfly roofs make a dramatic statement, but the “V” shape creates a central valley that’s notorious for trapping water and debris. Installation takes some engineering know-how, as precision is non-negotiable for preventing leaks at the valley and seams. These roofs need consistent maintenance, especially after heavy rains or autumn’s leaf fall—otherwise, that elegant trough becomes a breeding ground for trouble.
Curved Roofs
Curved roofs bring architectural flair and a nod to coastal barn history, but crafting those graceful arcs isn’t for the faint of heart (or wallet). Installation typically calls for custom materials and specialized contractors, driving up costs. All those angles can funnel rain and snow in unexpected directions, so maintenance means paying close attention to seams and gutters, and keeping an eye out for damage to the finishing materials.
Domed Roofs
Domed roofs have stood the test of time thanks to their evenly distributed weight and striking good looks, but they present some distinctly modern challenges. Fitting new features—think skylights, chimneys, or vents—can be tricky and usually requires a professional touch. Maintenance routines tend to be less frequent thanks to their rugged shape, but repairs or modifications are best left to the experts, as working with curved surfaces is more complex than the average roof patch job.
Whether you’re restoring a Victorian with a mansard roof or dreaming up a mid-century modern with a butterfly design, knowing the quirks behind each type helps prevent future headaches—and keeps your New England home ready for whatever the skies (or the squirrels) might bring.
Domed Roof
Domed roofs harken back to centuries-old cathedrals and grand civic buildings, but these days, they’re making a quiet comeback in residential architecture thanks to their striking silhouette and impressive structural capabilities.
What sets a domed roof apart is its smooth, curved profile. This arch distributes weight evenly across its surface, making the design especially resilient during New England’s notorious storms. The aerodynamic shape stands up well to high winds, and its natural slope prevents snow and rain from accumulating—a real boon when winter delivers its worst.
There are several perks to this style:
Exceptional durability: The curved structure handles stress and resists cracking over time.
Energy efficiency: The even shape promotes consistent temperatures, which can help with heating and cooling costs.
Weather resistance: With no flat planes, wind, snow, and water have a tough time gaining a foothold.
However, domed roofs aren’t without their quirks. Modifying the interior space or adding features—notably chimneys, skylights, or dividing walls—can be a complicated affair that often requires a specialist’s touch. Construction costs also run higher compared to more traditional styles like gables or hips, partly because the design and installation typically call for expert architectural input.
Ultimately, if you’re drawn to bold architectural statements, want exceptional durability, and don’t mind enlisting extra help for the build, a domed roof can add a touch of drama and a lot of resilience to your home.
Flat Roofs
A great number of homes, condos, and even some commercial buildings across New England feature flat roofs—though the term “flat” is a bit of a misnomer. These roofs actually have a subtle pitch, usually between a quarter-inch and half an inch per foot, just enough to encourage water to make its way to a drain instead of pooling on top. If you’ve ever admired a modern rooftop deck or a city garden oasis, chances are it’s sitting atop one of these.
But not all flat roofs are created equal. Here’s a quick tour through the common types you’ll encounter, each with their own quirks and benefits:
- Built-Up Roof (BUR): Think of this as the classic, layered approach—multiple plies of tar and gravel or asphalt, stacked like a hearty New England lasagna. BURs are known for fire resistance and durability, and they create a solid surface that’s perfect for rooftop lounging. The tradeoff is they’re heavy and can be tricky to install, especially in our variable weather.
Modified Bitumen Roof (MBR): These have a modern twist, using asphalt-based sheets rolled out in layers. MBRs are generally lighter and easier to put down, and they reflect a bit more sunlight (which helps keep attic temperatures in check). However, their lifespan isn’t as long as some other options, and they need a little extra care to avoid fire risk if installed using torch techniques.
EPDM (Rubber Membrane): Imagine rolling out a giant, sturdy yoga mat across your roof. EPDM roofs are popular for their flexibility and resistance to the harsh freeze-thaw cycles common in our area. They’re easy to install and can last for decades, but they can be more easily punctured by foot traffic or sharp branches, and—unless paired with the right coatings—they aren’t the best at keeping heat out in the summer.
Advantages and Trade-offs
The big draw for flat roofs is their versatility. They make installing solar panels a breeze, and they’re tailor-made for rooftop decks, gardens, and those trendy HVAC setups you see in city skylines. Because of their straightforward construction, they’re often more budget-friendly to build.
On the flip side, flat roofs typically have a shorter lifespan than their pitched counterparts, thanks to water tending to hang around longer after rain or snow. Staying vigilant with regular maintenance is a must, as even a minor drainage hiccup can lead to leaks. But with the right materials and professional installation, many New England homes enjoy all the perks these roofs have to offer.
Curved Roof
Curved roofs offer a striking departure from the straight lines of more traditional roof shapes, bringing a sense of movement and creativity to a building’s silhouette. Originally embraced by farmers aiming to maximize storage in their barns, these roofs really caught on in mid-20th-century design and now find their way onto everything from coastal homes to avant-garde public buildings.
You can spot curved roofs by their sweeping arches or wave-like profiles. Some feature a single, graceful curve, while others are cleverly segmented or show off scalloped edges, each lending a distinct architectural flair.
Noteworthy Advantages:
Eye-catching, modern look that can become an architectural focal point
Natural ability to deflect strong winds, making them ideal for breezy or coastal environments
Generous interior volume—perfect for spacious lofts, storage, or even creative living spaces
Potential Drawbacks:
Construction costs are generally higher due to specialized materials and expertise required
Engineering can be complex, usually demanding custom solutions
The multiple curves and crevices may mean more frequent maintenance work
Curved roofs add both personality and performance to a home, but they do come with their own unique set of challenges—best suited for homeowners seeking something out of the ordinary.
Butterfly Roof
If you’re looking for a roof that turns heads, the butterfly roof might be your perfect match. Named for its eye-catching V-shape—think of two roof slopes tilting up toward the sky, like wings in mid-flutter—this design is anything but shy. Inspired by modernist architecture, butterfly roofs are a favorite for homeowners who want to make a bold architectural statement while packing in some practical perks.
Benefits of Butterfly Roofs
Eco-Friendly Design: The unique inward slope naturally channels rainwater to a central point, making it easy to set up a rainwater collection system—ideal for gardeners or those interested in sustainable living.
More Natural Light: Higher exterior walls allow for larger windows, meaning more sunshine can brighten your home and cut down on the need for artificial lighting.
Great for Solar Panels: The angled surfaces are perfect for mounting solar panels, maximizing sun exposure for renewable energy buffs.
Modern Aesthetic: If you’re drawn to striking, contemporary lines, the butterfly roof lends a dramatic, mid-century modern flair that stands apart from traditional styles.
Drawbacks to Consider
Waterproofing Challenges: The inward slope means everything runs toward the center, so extra attention is needed to make sure the central valley is sealed tightly against leaks.
Higher Installation Costs: The complexity of the design often requires skilled labor and specialized materials, making it more expensive and technically demanding to build than simpler roof styles.
Maintenance Needs: Those valleys where rainwater collects can also collect debris, so staying on top of cleaning and inspections is key to preventing potential damage.
Butterfly roofs aren’t for everyone, but for those craving a blend of sustainability, sunlight, and modern drama, they offer a compelling alternative to New England’s more traditional roof shapes.
Roof Shapes: Pitch and Slope
Now that you know the most common roof styles, let’s move on to two other key architectural components: pitch and slope. Both play a major role in the shape and style of your roof. They also impact weather resistance and even how much interior space your home has.
What is a Roof Pitch?
A roof pitch refers to the steepness or incline of a roof. It’s typically measured as a fraction, like 1/12.
When it comes to the function of a roof, the pitch affects how well a roof sheds water and snow. If a roof’s pitch isn’t on point, pooling water or snow can lead to a lot of problems, including roof leaks.
The pitch also influences the shape of a roof. For example, steeper pitches result in more pronounced, peaked roofs, while lower pitches lead to flatter, subtler roof profiles. This can affect the architectural style of the building. For instance, steep pitches are common in Gothic or Victorian architecture.
What is a Slope?
A roof slope gives us a lot of information about your home’s roof. It’s expressed as a ratio or as inches per foot. While the slope involves the roof’s incline, it tells us how the roof should be installed. For example, according to NACHI, asphalt shingles should be installed on roof slopes 2:12 or greater. Meanwhile, it’s best to install metal roofs on slopes that are 3:12 or greater.
The roof slope affects roof shapes as well, just like the pitch. However, low slopes are often seen in modern or industrial designs.
Selecting the Right Materials for Your Roof Style
When it’s time to install a new roof, you’ll need to consider roof style and shape when selecting your roofing materials. Some roofing materials are only suitable for roofs of a certain pitch or slope. Let’s take a look at how to choose the best roofing materials for your roof’s style, our climate, and aesthetic purposes.
What Type of Roof Is the Most Energy-Efficient?
If energy efficiency tops your wish list, the key is combining the right roof design with smart material choices. Light-colored roofs reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing heat. This keeps homes cooler during hot summer months.
Low-pitch or flat roofs—those with a slope of 2:12 or less—become especially efficient with modern membrane systems. Popular options include TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer).
These synthetic membrane roofs work well on flat or gently sloped buildings. They resist leaks, improve insulation, and boost energy efficiency. Many qualify as “cool roofs,” designed to reduce heat transfer and lower cooling costs throughout summer. For New England homeowners with modern or commercial-style properties, flat roof systems with white or reflective membranes offer standout energy performance—even on our hottest days.
Which Roof Style and Material Is the Most Budget-Friendly for Homeowners?
If you’re balancing style with your bottom line, a classic gable roof is often your most cost-effective option. Its straightforward design makes it easier (and quicker) for roofers to construct, which helps keep labor costs in check. Hip roofs rank close behind, offering slightly more complexity but still maintaining reasonable installation expenses.
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles come out on top as the most affordable choice. Not only are they easy on the wallet, but they’re also dependable—lasting about 20 years with regular upkeep. This makes asphalt shingles an excellent pick for homeowners who want both value and performance, without having to compromise on curb appeal.
The Impact of Roof Color on Energy Efficiency
Believe it or not, the color of your roof can play a big role in your home’s overall energy efficiency. Lighter-colored roofing materials—think pale grays, whites, or even light tans—are excellent at reflecting sunlight instead of absorbing it the way traditional dark asphalt shingles do. As a result, a lighter roof helps to keep your home cooler during those sunny New England summers and may even save you some money on air conditioning.
If your current roof is dark and you’re concerned about heat absorption, you aren’t necessarily stuck. Some homeowners opt to coat or repaint their roof with a lighter, reflective finish to improve energy performance. Just be sure to check that your specific roofing material and local regulations allow for this kind of update.
Choosing a lighter color for your next roof replacement is a simple yet effective way to increase comfort inside your home while reducing your energy bills. Plus, many manufacturers offer energy-efficient options under programs like ENERGY STAR®, making it even easier to find the right match for your style and climate.
Best Roofing Choices for Hot Climates
If you’re building or renovating in a region where the sun rules the forecast—think Arizona, Southern California, or other sun-soaked locales—the right roofing material can dramatically impact your home’s comfort, efficiency, and longevity.
Materials that stand up well to relentless heat and arid conditions include:
Clay or Terra-cotta Tiles: With their distinctive curved profile and light color options, these tiles not only bring Mediterranean charm but also naturally reflect heat, helping to keep interiors cooler.
Concrete Tiles: Durable and fire-resistant, concrete tiles offer a similar heat-deflecting advantage as clay but with additional flexibility in color and style to suit various architectural looks.
Metal Roofing: Metal roofs (like galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper) are outstanding in hot climates. Their reflective surface bounces the sun’s rays away, and modern coatings in lighter shades enhance this effect, lowering attic temperatures.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Often used on flat or low-slope roofs, this synthetic rubber membrane withstands harsh UV exposure, resists cracking, and is a popular pick for energy-conscious buildings.
Green (Living) Roofs: If you’re feeling eco-friendly and adventurous, a green roof with drought-tolerant plants provides excellent natural cooling and solar protection, all while adding a splash of color and sustainability to your home.
Not all roofing materials handle extreme heat the same way. Traditional asphalt shingles, for example, are more prone to cracking or warping after long exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight. Choosing lighter-colored shingles and keeping up with regular maintenance can help. But if you want a more durable, low-maintenance option, consider materials designed specifically for hot climates.
By selecting the right roofing material for both your climate and your home’s roof design, you boost comfort and cut down on energy costs. You’ll also enjoy lasting protection—even on the hottest days of summer.
Metal Roofing
When you want durability and longevity in a roof, turn to metal. Metal roofs are ideal for New England’s variable climate. This roofing material works exceptionally well on steep roofs, such as the traditional Colonial homes. A metal roof truly enhances classic roof designs while providing practical benefits like quick snow and rain shedding.
The sleek lines of metal roofs will also complement modern and contemporary homes. Coming in a rainbow of color options, a new metal roof can last you roughly 70 years.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are perhaps the most popular roofing material in New England. They install easily for many different roof pitches and slopes. Asphalt roofs are also available variety of colors, with a charcoal shingle color being one of the most popular with our roofing customers. This roofing material is truly a flexible option for everything from historic homes to newer constructions.
Our roofing systems are designed for significant energy savings. We install asphalt roofs as a 6-layer system, equipped with ventilation, roof deck protection from water damage, and much more.
Not only do asphalt roofs perform wonderfully in wet and icy conditions, they are also engineered to resist algae and moss growth.
Keep in mind that asphalt shingles can potentially blow off your roof during wind storms–but the solution to this is to work with a roofing contractor who offers wind warranties. Coastal Windows & Exteriors offers an unlimited wind speed warranty, guaranteeing that your shingles will stay in place no matter the wind speed!
The Role of Maintenance in Extending Your Roof’s Lifespan
Regular roof maintenance isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential if you want to maximize the life of your roofing materials, especially in New England’s ever-changing climate.
Asphalt shingles, for example, are a beloved staple thanks to their affordability and versatility. While they typically last around 20 years, routine care can help you stretch that lifespan much further. Scheduling annual inspections, promptly addressing small repairs, and keeping gutters clear all go a long way toward preventing leaks and moisture damage. For those looking to get the most out of their investment, there are rejuvenation treatments available. These treatments can restore flexibility and granule retention, sometimes adding up to an extra decade or more of service.
If you live in an area prone to sweltering summers or the icy grip of winter (hello, New England), routine checks become doubly important. High temperatures can cause asphalt shingles to lose their natural oils, leading to brittleness and cracking. By catching these signs early and applying special treatments, you can prevent premature aging and stave off the need for a costly full replacement down the road.
Other roofing materials benefit from care, too:
Metal roofs: These can last upwards of 50 years with minimal maintenance. However, periodic checks for loose fasteners, surface rust (especially near the coast), and debris accumulation will help keep them looking sharp and working reliably.
Tile and slate: These elegant options boast outstanding longevity, sometimes surpassing 75 years. Still, routine maintenance to fix cracks, replace broken tiles, and clear organic growth ensures they stay in peak condition.
If you want your roof to go the distance—no matter the material—remember: a proactive maintenance plan, regular inspections, and quality repair work are your best tools for long-term performance and protection.
With the right approach, your roof will continue safeguarding your home and family year after year, all while keeping those unexpected repair bills at bay.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles offer a modern twist on traditional roofing materials, integrating with your roof while providing incredible solar power. Architecturally, they are sleek and less obtrusive than standard solar panels. This makes them an aesthetically pleasing option that doesn’t compromise the look of your home.
These shingles are particularly suited to roofs with good southern exposure and a pitch optimized for catching sunlight. A roofing contractor can help you determine if your roof has the right pitch or slope for solar shingles.
While New England may experience variable sunlight, solar shingles are still capable of generating significant energy savings. Our solar shingles power your home around the clock, even at night and on cloudy days. With solar shingles, you’ll get an entire roofing system installed along with the shingles. You can potentially save 100% on your energy bills with this option.
How to Extend Your Roof’s Lifespan
Your roof is a major investment, and it deserves proper care. Protecting it ensures you get the longest lifespan from your materials. The best part? A few smart maintenance steps can help you avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your roof—whether it’s asphalt shingles, metal, or even solar shingles.
Here are some ways to extend the life of your roof:
Regular Inspections: Schedule annual roof inspections, especially after harsh New England winters or major storms. Small problems, like loose shingles or flashing, are much easier (and more affordable) to address early.
Routine Maintenance: Keep your gutters clear of debris to prevent water backup that can damage your roof deck. Trim back overhanging branches—branches can scrape shingles, drop debris, or let animals access your roof.
Proper Ventilation: Healthy attic ventilation prevents ice dams, reduces moisture buildup, and prevents premature aging of both shingles and underlayment.
Algae and Moss Prevention: Choose roofing products—like those with algae-resistant technology or metal coatings—that are specially designed to withstand our damp, variable climate. Occasionally cleaning your roof can also help protect its surface.
Professional Treatments: There are natural roof rejuvenation treatments available that can recondition asphalt shingles, restoring flexibility and extending their useful life.
Act on Repairs Promptly: If you notice missing shingles, stains on your ceiling, or granules in your gutters, schedule repairs as soon as possible. Addressing issues quickly is key to avoiding more costly damage.
With the right care, your roofing system will look and perform its best for many years. And when in doubt, consult an experienced local roofing contractor for personalized advice.
Find Your Ideal Roof Style with Coastal Windows & Exteriors
From curb appeal to energy savings, there’s plenty to love about a new roof. If your home shows signs of age—such as leaks, mold growth, or missing shingles—reach out for a free estimate.
With every estimate, you can preview your home in 3D using the roofing material of your choice. This tool lets you see the finished look before the project begins.
Call us today to get started on your new roof!
Looking for a roofing solution that protects your home and boosts its value? Discover how GAF roofing systems in Reading, MA, provide unmatched durability, energy efficiency, and peace of mind
