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The most common slope range for roofs on houses in snowy areas is between 4/12 and 6/12, or 50%. A roof with a slope of less than 10%, or roughly a 2/12 pitch, won’t be effective at shedding snow. However, roofs that are too steep can allow large amounts of snow to build up and fall all at once, creating a hazard for those on the ground.

Trusses and rafters each have advantages and disadvantages, so one isn’t necessarily better than the other. For example, trusses are more affordable and often come in prefabricated kits, so they’re easier to build than rafters. However, rafters are available in a variety of designs, so it’s easier to find one that fits your style preferences. Plus, if you want to build an attic at some point down the line, it’s far easier to do that with rafters rather than trusses.

In some cases, yes, you can put a second roof layer over architectural shingles, but it depends on your home’s structural stability and the local building codes where you live. Architectural shingles are thicker and heavier than standard asphalt shingles, so you may need structural reinforcement or a structural engineer’s inspection before proceeding. Additionally, some building departments don’t allow for two roof layers, regardless of the roof type. You should ask a professional if ripping the old roof off before installing the new one is the best option for you.

Copper roofs last an average of around 100 years, making it one of the longest-lasting types of roofs. It’s significantly more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof, but it also lasts three to four times as long, providing great value for the money. You can extend the life of your copper roof by carrying out routine maintenance, like scheduling annual cleaning and roof inspections.