A gable roof is a roof with two sloping sides that meet in the middle to form a triangle.  The center ridge where the pitched sides meet should run parallel to the length of the house.

Gable roofs are constructed of rafters, roof trusses, or purlins and are the most common roof shape in cold or temperate climates. They are also a traditional and ubiquitous roof type in many homes.

Gable roofs offer a classical aesthetic, provide effective protection against the elements, and provide a larger space for your attic - but they do not perform as well as hip roofs during extreme wind. The gable is a flat surface that wind may hit directly, and the force of the wind could pull up the truss of your roof.

Fun fact: The word “gable” may have originated from an Old French word meaning "facade or front" or from an Old Norse word meaning "gable-end" or "gable".

A hipped roof, or hip roof, is a roof design where all sides slope downward to the walls, usually at a gentle angle. Unlike gable roofs, hipped roofs have no vertical ends, and their slopes meet at a ridge or a point, depending on the roof's shape.

Hipped roofs are known for their durability and stability, particularly in areas prone to high winds or storms, such as San Antonio, TX. Their aerodynamic design helps them perform better against strong gusts, as the sloped surfaces allow wind to pass over rather than creating pressure against a flat surface.

Fun fact: Hipped roofs have been used for thousands of years and were a hallmark of ancient Roman and Greek architecture, where their elegant slopes added both function and aesthetic appeal.

A low-slope roof, often referred to as a flat roof, is a roof with a slight pitch typically ranging from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch per foot. This subtle slope is designed to ensure proper drainage while maintaining the appearance of a nearly flat surface.

Flat roofs are common in modern architecture and are widely used in commercial buildings and contemporary residential designs. Their simple structure makes them cost-effective and easier to construct compared to steeper roof types. 

While flat roofs are durable and practical, they require effective waterproofing systems and regular maintenance to prevent water pooling, which can lead to leaks or structural damage. 

Fun fact: Flat roofs have been a staple of architecture for millennia, with early examples found in ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian structures, where they served as functional spaces for social gatherings and stargazing!