When planning a new build or replacing an old roof, the style you choose will shape not only the look of your home but also how it performs in vast weather conditions. In Christchurch, Canterbury and the West Coast, roofs have to cope with high winds, driving rain and occasional snow. The right design sheds water quickly, resists uplift, protects your walls and suits your lifestyle. Here’s a look at six popular roof types:
- Gable
- Hip
- Monopitch
- Flat
- Butterfly
Learn about their advantages, drawbacks and suitability for our unique climate.
Gable Roof
The gable roof is the classic pitched roof most of us recognise. Two sloping sides meet at a ridge, creating a triangular end wall. Gable roofs are simple to design, cost‑effective to build and excellent for shedding rain and snow. They also offer good ventilation and attic space, making them a sensible choice for homes in Canterbury’s varied climate.
The steep slopes mean water runs off quickly, reducing the risk of leaks and moss growth. On exposed sites, however, the gable ends can catch the wind like a sail. Proper bracing and high‑quality fasteners are essential to prevent damage.
If you’re considering a gable roof, talk to Huston Cross about new roof installation. Our experienced team will ensure your gable roof is built to withstand Canterbury’s weather while maintaining the traditional charm many homeowners love.
Hip Roof
A hip roof slopes down on all four sides and meets at a ridge or a single point. This design offers better stability and wind resistance than a gable roof. The absence of vertical gables means less surface area for the wind to catch, making hip roofs ideal for coastal properties or high‑wind areas around Christchurch.
Hip roofs are also visually pleasing, with clean lines and a balanced appearance. On the downside, they are more complex to build and require more materials and labour than a gable roof. The inward slope on all sides reduces attic space and complicates ventilation.
For commercial buildings or homes where stability and low maintenance are priorities, Huston Cross offers commercial roofing services that include hip roof installation. We use durable metal roofing profiles designed to handle strong winds and heavy rain.
Monopitch Roof
A monopitch roof, also known as a skillion or shed roof, has a single sloping surface. It’s a modern, minimalist option that lends a contemporary look to homes and extensions. Because it’s just one plane, a skillion roof is simple and quick to build. The steep pitch allows water to run off efficiently and creates an ideal angle for solar panels. This style works well for home offices, garages and additions where you want something sleek and unobtrusive. However, a mono roof can limit interior space and isn’t always suitable for large buildings. All the water runs to one side, so a high‑capacity guttering system is essential. When choosing a skillion roof, consider how it will connect with existing roofs and ensure you have adequate waterproofing. Huston Cross specialises in re‑roofing for Christchurch homes and can adapt mono roofs to your specific needs, integrating them seamlessly with existing structures.
Flat Roof
Flat roofs are popular on modern homes and commercial buildings. Despite the name, they are built with a slight pitch to allow drainage. Their biggest advantage is versatility: a flat roof creates usable outdoor space for a rooftop garden, terrace or solar array.
Construction is straightforward and often less expensive than pitched roofs. Flat roofs also make it easier to access HVAC units, skylights and other roof fixtures. The main challenge is drainage. Without a good membrane and properly installed gutters, water can pool and cause leaks. Flat roofs can also be more prone to heat gain in summer and require insulation to maintain comfort. Huston Cross has extensive experience installing flat roofs on both homes and businesses. We pair them with high‑quality waterproof membranes, and our team can integrate metal cladding and internal gutter systems to ensure reliable drainage and a clean finish.
Butterfly Roof
The butterfly roof is an eye‑catching modernist design where two roof surfaces slope inward to meet at a central valley. It resembles a V‑shape from the exterior and allows for tall windows along the outer walls, flooding the interior with natural light.
One of its biggest advantages is sustainability: the valley acts as an integrated rainwater collection system. Butterfly roofs also make a bold architectural statement and suit contemporary homes. However, they require custom engineering, specialist materials and careful drainage design. The central valley must be kept clear of debris to prevent water pooling, so maintenance is higher than with more conventional roofs.
In Canterbury, this style is rare but appealing for those building eco‑friendly homes with a distinctive look. Huston Cross works with architects and homeowners to install unique roofs and can advise on suitable pitches, waterproofing and guttering systems.
How to Choose the Right Roof
When deciding between these roof types, think about your property’s design, local climate, budget and future plans. No matter the style, professional installation and maintenance are essential. Huston Cross is a one‑stop roofing shop, offering everything from new roof installation and re‑roofing to roof repairs, guttering, downpipes and metal cladding. Our team understands Canterbury’s harsh weather and will help you choose a roof that’s beautiful and built to last. Contact us today to discuss the best roof type for your project and ensure your home remains safe, stylish and weather-tight for decades to come.