Even a “flat” roof isn’t truly flat, it must have a slight slope so rain and snow can drain away.

In the United States, the most common type of roof is the asphalt shingle roof, prized for its low cost and ease of installation. Roughly 70–80 percent of American roofs use shingles.

Clay roof tiles are among the oldest roofing materials, dating back as far as 3000 BCE in China.

Slate roofs are exceptionally durable, lasting anywhere from 75 to 200 years.

Green roofs (rooftops planted with vegetation) are a growing trend. They help insulate homes, improve air quality, and reduce stormwater runoff.

Before the Great Fire of London in 1666, thatched roofs made from straw, reeds, or similar materials were common. Afterward, they were banned and replaced with tile for safety.

A complete roof replacement today can cost anywhere between $9,000 and $20,000.

Wood and cedar-shake roofs are renowned for their rustic beauty, but insurance companies often charge higher premiums for them.

Water leaking from a roof can travel a long way before showing up inside, so the spot where you see a stain on the ceiling is rarely the actual source on the roof.

Many businesses that sell solar panels are, in fact, roofing companies that have expanded into green energy.

Snow can be hazardous for a roof. A single cubic foot can weigh up to eight pounds, placing potentially catastrophic stress on the structure.

The American roofing industry is estimated to be a $70 billion business.

A metal roof does not make a house more likely to be struck by lightning; strikes occur at the highest point regardless of material.

Many do-it-yourself roof repairs create more leaks than they fix and even professional roofers sometimes encounter the same problem.