The basic hip roof is a pitched roof with four sloping sides. However, that’s not the only option available. There are other types of hip roofs.

This article will introduce you to six. Each of these six is unique in design and best suited to different types of buildings. So, keep reading to find the right type of flat roof for your building.

The Most Common Types of Hip Roofs

As promised, here are six types of hip roofs.

Standard hip Roof

This is the most basic, simple and popular type of hip roof. It’s the type I described in the introduction. The standard, aka simple hip roof, has four sloping sides that meet at the ridge.

This type of hip roof is perfect for all sorts of buildings, including contemporary and traditional. Usually, the building is rectangular.

Pyramid hip roof

A pyramid hip roof usually has four symmetrical sloping sides. This is usually because the building is square. Such a building is usually a cottage, small church or bungalow, gazebo or pavilion.

This type of hip roof is also called a pavilion roof.

Hip and Valley roof

A hip and valley roof comprises two hip roofs with a valley between them. Usually, this is because of house extensions. The secondary hip roof is for the extension. A hip and valley roof can also be used for L-shaped buildings.

Cross hip roof

A cross hip roof comprises multiple hip roofs crossing each other, usually at right angles. Each wing (of the cross hip roof) is for a different wing of the building. Therefore, this type of hip roof is mainly for L- and T-shaped buildings.

Half hip roof

A half hip roof is a hybrid with gables. Usually, the gable roof is on top of the hip. This improves headroom (because of the gables) while maintaining sturdiness (because of the hip).

This type of hip roof is popular in urban homes, rural cottages and Dutch colonial architecture. It is also known as the Dutch gable.

Mansard Roof

This is another hybrid type of hip roof. A mansard roof comprises two hipped roofs, one sitting on the other. The lower roof usually has a steeper slope.

This design also increases headroom without making the room less sturdy or stable. Mansard roofs are great for urban, contemporary and French architecture.

The Main Advantages of Hip Roofs

Here are six advantages of hip roofs.

Durability

Hip roofs are one of the strongest and most durable types of roofs. They can last up to 50 years.

Weather resistance

Hip roofs are great for locations with severe weather. Those sloping sides protect them from heavy winds, rainfall and snow loads.

A self-bracing structure

All four sides brace each other. The result is a sturdy, strong roof that doesn’t need additional support structures.

Good drainage

Water drains along the sloping sides. It can’t settle on the roof. Plus, you can install gutters on all sides, further improving drainage.

Curb appeal

Hip roofs make buildings look larger, elegant and eye-catching. Even the standard hip roof has a lot of curb appeal. Imagine how the more interesting types (of hip roofs) can beautify your home.

Ample loft space

Hip roofs create ample loft space that you can use as a storage, living or office space. If you want maximum loft space, consider the half hip or mansard types of hip roofs.

What to Consider When Choosing a Hip Roof

Each type of hip roof has strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, one type might be perfect for your house, while another isn’t. To choose the right hip roof, consider these five factors.

Architectural style

What is the design of your building? The roof should complement and fit that design. For example, if you have an L- or T-shaped building, you can use a cross hip roof.

The roof should also fit the general aesthetics of the property.

Your budget

How much will the roof cost? Consider the design and the roofing material. If you choose a complex hip roof and high-quality roofing material, costs will be higher.

Weather conditions of your area

Hip roofs generally do well in severe weather. However, some types of hip roofs perform better than others. For example, hip and valley hip roofs have valleys that could leak. Cross hip roofs have the same problem.

Maintenance and repairs

Complex roof designs are usually more high-maintenance and costlier to repair. They also usually cost more to install. So, if you want to reduce installation and maintenance costs, choose a simple type of hip roof.

Living space

If you want better headroom in the loft, choose mansard and half hip roofs.

How to Maintain a Hip Roof

Here are four things you can do to care for a hip roof.

Clean the roof and gutters regularly

Clear debris regularly. Clean the gutters, too, to avoid drainage issues.

Inspect the roof regularly

This will allow you to spot problems early. When you do find a problem, fix it as soon as possible. Inspect every part of the roof, including the drains, seams and flashings. 

Aside from regular inspection, you should also inspect your hip roof after bad weather.

Prune overhanging branches

Branches can fall on the roof, damaging it. They can also shed leaves on the roof. Prune overhanging branches to avoid this.

Hire a specialist to inspect your room twice a year

The specialist will notice things that you can’t. They can also help with roof maintenance and repairs.

Summary

The main types of hip roofs are standard, pyramid, hip and valley, cross hip, half hip and mansard roofs. They all have four sloping sides. However, they also have design qualities that make them unique.

So, one type of hip roof could be perfect for you while another is not. It’s crucial to choose the right roof. It’s even more crucial to hire a qualified and experienced roof specialist to install or repair your roof.

So, let me tell you about us. Fixmyroof is a roofing company with several years of experience. We build and repair all sorts of roofs, including hip roofs. We provide roofing solutions to people like you. Let’s talk.