Skillion roofs are more popular than ever in Australia. This is because their functionality and edgy design attract so many suburban homeowners.
This blog discusses this rising design phenomenon and if you should get one.
Skillion roofs are also called shed roofs or mono-pitched roofs. They differ from a standard roof: an average roof has two or more sloping sides.
These sides meet at an angle in the middle of the roof. Therefore, they peak at the center point of the roof/building.
On the other hand, a skillion roof has just one significant slope instead of two. As a result, it is generally steeper than a regular roof.
In relative terms, a skillion roof is a mix between a flat and a gable roof. They combine a flat roof’s minimalism with a gabled roof’s pitch.
A skillion roof, also known as a shed roof or lean-to roof, is a single-sloping roof surface, which stands out for its modern and minimalist design. This type of roof is gaining popularity in Canberra due to its sleek appearance and practical advantages.
Constructing a skillion roof involves using a rafter support system. Rafters are the long beams that provide the main support for the roof. They play a crucial role in the overall stability and integrity of the structure. The flat outer roofing material is placed directly on these rafters, ensuring a sturdy and reliable roof.
The simplicity of the skillion roof design, which consists of only a single sloping surface, makes it relatively easy to design and construct. This straightforward approach requires fewer materials and less labor compared to more complex roof designs, making it a cost-effective choice for many homeowners.
Moreover, the single slope of a skillion roof allows for excellent water drainage, which is particularly beneficial during Canberra’s rainy seasons. This design reduces the risk of water pooling and leaks, contributing to the longevity and durability of your roof. Additionally, skillion roofs can accommodate larger windows on the higher wall, allowing natural light to flood into your home and create a bright, airy living space. The high ceilings typically associated with skillion roofs also enhance ventilation, helping to keep your home cooler during Canberra’s hot summers.
Since they were traditionally made for extension buildings and tool sheds, skillion roofs are made to be more waterproof.
Keeping this in mind, they are made of streamlined roofing materials, with rubber skin and metal finishing. There is the option of making use of tiles instead of metal.
This reduces the waterproofing cost.
Skillion Roofs can be installed for a new build as well as a reconstruction project. Check out our Homebuyers Guide to Knockdown and Rebuild.
These roofs get their name from their shape, which appears to have two wings, looking remarkably like a butterfly’s wings.
Two roof sections are pointed towards the center, helping collect rainwater making them very suitable for rainwater harvesting.
If positioned correctly, they offer a great surface area, making the design of your building even more environmentally friendly.
Taking its name from its curved surface, they have a look that is more organic than industrial. Oval-shaped roofs give greater indoor area and are more resistant to wind, which can be an issue for skillion roofs.
However, they are more expensive, so they are not often preferred for homes.
It combines traditional gabled roofing and skillion roofing for the same home. One section is generally kept higher than the other.
In terms of steepness, this type of roof can slope in opposite and similar directions.
This is the most cost-effective option for building a mono-pitched roof. Instead of one single skillion roof, there are several smaller skillion roofs.
In addition, it is easier to make each individual section can be built and maintained one at a time.
The following reasons are why you should choose a skillion roof:
At ABM Homes, we specialize in building energy-efficient homes. That is why we offer the skillion roof as a part of our custom home building solutions.
Our engineers have years of experience designing and constructing skillion roofs for the main home structure and extension buildings.