Looking for inspiration for your new home’s roof design but finding it difficult? Choosing the right roof for your home is about finding the right balance of functionality, budget and looks. In this article, we’re hip to the pros and cons of hip roof designs.
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What is a hip roof?
A hip roof or hipped roof is a roof design where all four sides slope downwards to the walls from the ridge. The angle of the slope is usually fairly gentle (especially when compared to a gabled roof design). Depending on the roof, they have trapezoid or triangular sides. Hip roofs lack the vertical sides found in a gable design.
On a rectangular plan, each slope of the building is likely to be even and have a symmetrical shape.
Hip roofs are very popular for Australian Homes and provide a stable structure against strong winds. Beyond functional benefits, well-designed hip roofs are aesthetically pleasing and can add to your home’s curb appeal.
How much does a hip roof cost?
Prices will vary from house to house, however, what we can tell you is that hip roof designs tend to be one of the more expensive roof types on the market. Some factors that will influence the cost of your roof include:
- Size of the roof
- Materials you use to build the roof
- The type of hip roof design you build and the complexity of the design
- Where you’re building
- Any additional expenses for the contractor are likely to come out of your pocket.
What are the advantages of having a hip-roof house?
Sturdy structure
Naturally, you want your new home to have a strong, durable and reliable roof and a hipped roof is one of the sturdiest roof structures available. It can resist strong winds better than gabled roofs can, making it a better choice for places prone to cyclones and tropical storms. No roof can be 100% damage resistant, but by playing the odds, you lessen your chances.
Cyclone resistant
Australia has more than its fair share of cyclone-prone areas, and the best defence for your home is preparation. A hipped roof style provides your home with a sturdy structure against strong winds and debris.
Excellent for Eaves
The shape of a hip roof is ideal for creating deep eaves for your home. Eaves direct water away from your home, potentially reducing water damage and increasing the lifespan of your property.
Stylish Look
The heavy, stable look of a hipped roof house is aesthetically pleasing to a lot of people, hence its popularity. Not only will you get to live in a stylish looking home, but it’ll also increase your resale value should you decide to sell.
What are the drawbacks of having a hip-roof house?
More expensive
A major downside of a hip roof house is it is a more complicated design, with means it’s a more expensive building project than a more simple roof type, such as a flat top roof.
Risk of leaks
The last thing you want on a rainy day is for your roof to start leaking on you. Hip roofs are sometimes prone to leaks, depending on the quality of the build and the design.
Can look clunky
Like any design choice, it needs to suit the main structure of your home. While a well-designed hip-roof house can provide a stylish finish to your home.
What are the most popular hip-roof home design ideas?
Regular hip
Sometimes referred to as the simple hip, a regular hip is the most popular design. The design has four sides on a rectangular plan and these sides are usually symmetrically the same.
Half-hipped roof
A half hip resembles a gabled roof but the upper point is replaced by a small hip that squares off at the top. This has the advantage of allowing gutters to be installed on every side of the house, improving your home’s drainage.
Cross-Hipped Roof
A popular design where the roof is shaped in an L-shape. Basically, the design connects two hip designs together, one horizontal and the other verticle. The seam between these two creates a valley. First popularised in Italy in the 19th century, this has since become a popular design across the world.
Pyramid Hip
Sometimes referred to as a pavilion roof, a pyramid hip creates a pyramid shape on the top of your roof. All sides are equal and meet at a point at the top. These roofs are more common on smaller structures like patios, gazebos and shelters.
Hip and Valley roof
Hip and valley roofs are usually chosen for irregularly shaped homes. Their versatility allows multiple hips across the roof connected by valleys.
Hip roof vs the competition
Hip roof vs gable roof
A gable roof design feature to sloping sides that meet at a point.
A gable roof is cheaper to construct and it’s angled all for rainfall to easily drain. This design however isn’t suitable for cyclone-prone areas as it’s vulnerable to strong wind damage.
Hip roof vs Dutch gable roof
A Dutch gable roof is a hipped-style roof with a small gable on top. This design offers your home a distinct look that allows natural light into your house. It’s however a more complicated design to construct and therefore, quite pricey.
Hip roof vs flat roof
The flat roof has a single surface that is either flat or on an angle. Usually a simple and affordable option, it’s a popular look for modern homes. The downside of this design is a potential risk of water pooling, leaks and heat absorption.
Hip roof vs curved roof
Curved-designed roofs offer a distinct look that will help your home look modern and stand out. However, they’re one of the most complicated roofs to design and build successfully. As you might expect this greatly adds to the cost. A hip roof in comparison is usually more affordable while still providing a visually pleasing look.
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