Which roof to choose: gable, hip or flat? And tiles or metal?

A roof is a 30–50 year investment, so it pays to choose carefully. The decision has two parts: roof shape (gable, hip, flat…) and covering type (tiles, metal, membrane). Both affect price, looks and future maintenance.

Gable roof — the Czech classic

Two sloped planes, a simple truss and a minimum of details where leaks can start. The gable roof is the cheapest pitched option, offers attic space and works with virtually any covering. For most family houses it is the most sensible choice.

Hip roof — elegance at a premium

A hip roof slopes on all sides, making the house look lower and more elegant. However, the truss is more complex, covering cuts are more expensive and attic usability is smaller. Expect roughly a 10–20% higher price than a gable roof.

Flat roof — modern minimalism

Flat roofs are no longer the trouble they used to be — modern membrane and bitumen systems seal reliably for decades. A flat roof enables a clean modern look, a green roof or a terrace. It does require regular inspection and quality detailing.

Concrete and clay tiles

• Lifespan: 50+ years, clay even longer.
• Pros: prestigious look, excellent noise damping (rain), easy local repairs — only damaged pieces are replaced.
• Cons: weight (requires a properly sized truss), higher labour cost, slower installation.

Metal roofing

• Lifespan: 30–50 years depending on coating.
• Pros: low weight (ideal for renovating older trusses), fast installation, lower price, suitable for low pitches.
• Cons: rain noise (solved with insulation), condensation risk with a wrong build-up, coating scratches.

Indicative 2026 prices

Prices are indicative excl. VAT and vary with roof complexity, penetrations and flashing work. Only an itemised budget determines the exact price.

How to decide?

For a new build with an attic we recommend a gable roof with concrete or clay tiles. For renovating an older house with a lighter truss, quality metal roofing is usually best. And if you're building a modern bungalow, don't be afraid of a flat roof — with today's materials it is a reliable, striking solution. We'll gladly assess your specific case on site.