Looking at Roofs

A"roof over your head" roof performs the definitive function of a home -- it keeps off the rain out, protecting your person and property from the elements.  Roofing is a complex topic.  Just about any material you can think of has been used for roofing in one way or another.  But basically there are just two kinds:  low slope or so-called "flat" roofs and pitched roofs. 

The pitched roof is the traditional roof.  The covering may be shingles, tiles, or shakes.  The roofing itself is not waterproof, but it sheds water, usually into a gutter.  Low-slope roofs must be waterproof, just like a pool or bathtub.