Roof Types 101: Which One Fits Your Charleston Dream Home?

When you’re buying or designing a home, the roof might not be the first thing on your mind — but it should be! Roof style impacts not just the look of a home, but also its interior space, maintenance needs, and long-term value. Today, I’m breaking down some of the most popular roof types you’ll see around Charleston and the Lowcountry — and sharing my two personal favorites: Gambrel and Mansard.

Today, I’m walking you through 12 common roof types (with the help of a handy visual guide!) so you can decide which one suits your lifestyle and aesthetic best. I’m also sharing the pros and cons of each roof type so you can feel confident when house-hunting or designing your dream home.

Gambrel Roof

Also known as the “barn roof,” the Gambrel has two slopes on each side — a shallow one on top and a steeper one below.

Pros:

• Maximizes interior attic or loft space

• Excellent water drainage

• Charming, traditional look

Cons:

• Can be less wind-resistant (important in hurricane zones!)

• More complex to frame and maintain

Mansard Roof

This French-inspired roof has four double-sloped sides and gives any home an elegant, historic feel.

Pros:

• Provides extra living space (great for finishing a full top floor)

• Elegant, timeless curb appeal

• Versatile for renovations and expansions

Cons:

• Higher installation cost

• Flat top section needs good drainage to avoid leaks

Saltbox Roof

This asymmetrical style slopes longer on one side than the other, creating a distinctive historic silhouette.

Pros:

• Adds unique character to a home

• Naturally sheds rain and snow

• Energy efficient — shorter side can help block harsh sun

Cons:

• Uneven ceilings inside may limit layout options

• More complex to build

Pyramid Hip Roof

A perfect pyramid shape with four equal sides sloping down to the walls.

Pros:

• Extremely sturdy — great for high-wind areas

• Offers a clean, symmetrical look

• Excellent for ventilation with a central point

Cons:

• Less attic space

• Slightly more expensive to build than simple gable roofs

Skillion and Lean-to Roof

A modern, single-pitch roof (or combination of two joined at different heights).

Pros:

• Great for contemporary homes

• Simple, cost-effective construction

• Allows for skylights and tall windows

Cons:

• Can look too modern for traditional neighborhoods

• May need extra drainage solutions due to single slope

Flat Roof

A true modernist favorite — though rarely completely flat, it has only a slight pitch for drainage.

Pros:

• Perfect for roof decks, gardens, or solar panels

• Simple construction

• Easy to access for maintenance

Cons:

• Requires very good drainage to prevent pooling

• Not ideal for heavy rainfall without proper design

Shed Roof

A single sloped surface, often used for smaller homes or additions.

Pros:

• Simple and inexpensive to build

• Clean, minimalist look

• Works well with vaulted ceilings

Cons:

• Limited attic space

• Can look out of proportion on larger homes

Butterfly Roof

Two roof surfaces angled downward toward the center, creating a “V” shape.

Pros:

• Striking, modern architectural look

• Perfect for capturing rainwater for collection

• Maximizes wall height for big windows

Cons:

• Requires precise waterproofing

• More expensive to build and maintain

Open Gable Roof

Your classic pitched roof with open ends.

Pros:

• Simple and cost-effective

• Great for ventilation

• Works on almost any home style

Cons:

• Exposed ends can be vulnerable to wind and water damage

• Offers less curb appeal variety

Box Gable Roof

Similar to the open gable but with enclosed ends for a more finished look.

Pros:

• Stronger than open gables

• More protection from weather

• Crisp, classic appearance

Cons:

• Slightly higher cost than open gable

• Still less wind-resistant than hip roofs

Dormer Roof

Not a full roof style on its own but an addition that pops up from the main roof, adding windows and space.

Pros:

• Adds natural light and ventilation

• Creates usable headroom in attics

• Adds charm and character

Cons:

• Requires extra flashing and waterproofing

• Can add to construction costs

M-Shaped Roof

Two gable roofs joined together, forming an “M” shape.

Pros:

• Adds unique architectural interest

• Allows for more windows and natural light

• Good for multi-unit homes or large footprints

Cons:

• Complex design with more valleys (which can leak if not maintained)

• Higher construction cost

Choosing the right roof style is about more than just aesthetics — it’s about function, maintenance, and how you want to live in your home.

My personal favorites? Gambrel (for its cozy, barn-inspired charm and extra loft space) and Mansard (because it turns any house into a little slice of Paris). Both make a statement and offer incredible functionality — perfect for Charleston homes that need to balance beauty and practicality.

If you’re house-hunting or designing a custom build and want to talk through roof styles and what works best in the Lowcountry, let’s chat! You can reach me anytime at hello@lemonlaneliving.com or find me on Instagram @lemonlaneliving.