Hip roofs are one of the three main types of roofing solutions that we use in the UK. They are sturdy, aesthetically pleasing, versatile and good with drainage. That’s why so many people choose them. That’s why you are on the internet, trying to learn about hip roofs.

I will tell you everything you need to know in this article. This includes vital information like types, advantages and disadvantages of hip roofs. I will even tell you how hip roofs compare to flat and gable roofs, the other two most common roofing solutions.

What Is a Hip Roof?

A hip roof is a roof with four sloping sides. The slopes rise from the base of the roof (at the top of the wall) and intersect at the ridge. This is what the standard hip roof looks like.

However, there are other versions. We will discuss five different types of hip roofs in this article. They are all slightly different from each other. However, the sloping sides are universal. All the sides of a hip roof are inclined, not flat.

Types of Hip Roof

Here are the five types of hip roofs.

Standard or simple Hip Roof

This is the basic type of hipped roof. It’s what people imagine when trying to describe what a hip roof looks like. So, some people also call this the traditional hip roof.

The standard/simple Hip roof has four sloped sides. All four sides connect at the ridge.

This type of hip roof is usually used for rectangular buildings. On the short sides, the roof looks like a triangle. On the long sides, it looks like a polygon.

Pyramid hip roof

The major difference between a pyramid and a standard hip roof is the shape of the building involved. The latter is used for rectangular buildings, while the former is used for square buildings.

So, that’s what a pyramid hip roof is? It is a hipped roof on a square building. Because all four sides are equal, the roof looks like a pyramid. This is where the name comes from. Some people also call it the pavilion hip roof.

A pyramid hip roof looks like a triangle on all four sides.

Cross hip roof

This type of hipped roof has two different wings/sections. 

Consider an L-shaped building as an example. It needs a roof that has two different wings. These two wings will cross each other at some point. That’s when you have a cross-hip roof. 

That’s where the name comes from. It means two or more hip roofs crossing each other. The cross hip roof Is also known as the hip and valley roof.

Half hip roof

This type of hip roof also has a gable on it. Actually, that’s exactly what this hip roof looks like. It is like a hipped roof with a gable roof sitting on it.

It’s a hybrid of the hip and the gable roofs. The half hip roof is also known as the Dutch gable roof.

Mansard Roof

The mansard hip roof looks like one hipped roof sitting on another. The upper roof is usually steeper than the lower one. So, there are two different levels of steepness.

What Are the Benefits of a Hip Roof?

Here are four main benefits of hipped roofs.

Good drainage

Because all the sides are sloping, water can drain off the roof. Snow and debris can’t build up either. Plus, you can add a gutter to all four sides of the roof.

Sturdy and stable

A Hip roof is very sturdy and secure. The structure can support itself. You also don’t have to worry about wind because the roof doesn’t have a flat side.

Versatile design

You can use a hip roof for most types of houses. From Victorian to classical and modern buildings, hipped roofs suit them all.

Aesthetic appeal

A hip roof is elegant and eye-catching. It will increase the aesthetic appeal and property value of your home.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Hip Roof?

Here are three main disadvantages of hip roofs

Relatively expensive

A hip roof is more expensive than the two other options available. Flat roofs are the cheapest, while gable roofs are also very affordable.

Complicated to build

The structure is relatively more complex than that of a gable roof. It needs skilled labour and more work hours. Material costs are also higher.

Leaks

This is mainly a problem for poorly installed and maintained roofs. However, it’s still something to keep in mind.

That is why you need a roof specialist like Fix my roof. A shoddy job will cost you more money in the long run. So, hire the best.

Conclusion

Once again, a hip roof has four sloping sides. That’s its major characteristic. It has many benefits, including sturdiness, drainage, snow load, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. There are disadvantages, too. After all, nothing is perfect.

Either way, a well-installed hip roof is an incredible addition to any property. So, let’s talk about how Fixmyroof can help you build one. We can also hire us to repair your current roof.