Ranch homes emerged in the U.S. after World War II. They were intended to provide affordable housing for returning soldiers with growing families and tight budgets.
Though the style originated in Southern California, homeowners fell in love with the split-level configuration and practical layout, and the style quickly spread across the country. Today, ranch homes are the most popular home style in 34 states — including Indiana.
Ranch Home Design Elements
Ranch homes are long, single-story residences that seek to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. One of the most notable elements of a ranch home is the low-pitched gable roof with asphalt roofing shingles, so keeping it in top shape is important.
Follow these design and style tips for helping your ranch home’s roof “pop” from the curb.
Roof Shingle Design & Style Ideas for Ranch Homes
Architectural Shingles
A ranch home is known for having a low-slope roof with a slight pitch — sometimes, the pitch is barely taller than the ceiling height. Because of this, you can see more of the roof from the curb than with other styles, such as two-story residences or homes with high-pitched roofs.
Choosing top-quality roofing shingles is critical for ranch homes because you will see the shingles “up close and personal.” We recommend architectural shingles because they have more weight, strength, dimension, and variation for overall curb appeal and longevity.
Solar Reflective Shingles
Because of the angle of ranch-style roofs, your asphalt roofing shingles endure direct sunlight at almost all times of the day. That is why choosing solar reflective shingles, like Ecoasis by Malarkey Roofing Products, is an economical choice for ranch homes.
These roofing shingles include cooling granules that help to reduce the temperature of your roofing system and clean the air of pollutants. By keeping your roof less hot in the summer, your home will stay colder, too, resulting in lower energy bills and a more comfortable home environment.
Seamless Color Transition
Because ranch homes have gently sloping gable roofs, the transition between the roofing system and siding is more gradual than other roofing variations.
To keep your exterior from looking “choppy,” it is wise to choose a roof and siding color that are similar — like beige shingles with brown siding — instead of starkly different shades — like black shingles with white siding. Similar shades also add to the home’s laid-back feeling instead of the visual sharpness of contrasting colors.
Cold Weather Capabilities
Since ranch homes have a low slope, it is more challenging for moisture to roll off your roofing system. This can lead to snow build-up during the winter months, which can result in ice dams and icicles, which can turn into costly roof damage.
When choosing asphalt shingles for your ranch home, selecting a durable, sturdy material that can withstand the elements is essential. It is also important to prioritize good ventilation and to keep the gutters clean in your ranch home for optimal weather performance.
Give Your Ranch Home a Makeover with JD Hostetter & Associates
If you live in an Indianapolis area ranch home and your asphalt roofing shingles are at least 15 years old — it may be time for a roof replacement. You can take this opportunity to create a design for your roofing system that is optimal for your ranch home’s curb appeal, longevity, and performance!
JD Hostetter & Associates installs durable asphalt roofing shingles from Malarkey Roofing Products and Owens Corning. Learn more about our roofing services for Indianapolis homeowners, and when you’re ready to get started, give us a call for a free estimate!
