Roof Styles

Once your building size is determined, the next decision is selecting a roof style. There are typically three options available, depending on the size of the building: Regular, Boxed Eave (A-Frame Horizontal), and Vertical roof styles. Buildings longer than 35 feet are limited to the Vertical roof option only.

Each roof style offers its own benefits and cost considerations. Regular and Boxed Eave styles are generally similar in price, while the Vertical roof style represents the largest upgrade. Often referred to as the “best” roof option, the Vertical roof provides enhanced performance and durability, making it a popular choice for larger or long-term installations.

A chart displaying five different styles of roofs for buildings or carports, including Regular Style, Boxed Eave Style, Vertical Roof Style - BEST, and two other styles shown in line drawings.
Diagram of a vertical roof style structure, showing both a detailed photograph and a line drawing of the building with a blue roof and open sides.

Vertical Roof Style (Best Option)

The Vertical Roof uses an A-frame design with steel panels installed vertically, allowing water, debris, and snow to shed efficiently from the ridge down to the eaves. This mirrors how steel panels are installed on residential and commercial buildings and provides the best long-term performance.

Vertical roofs include additional structural components, such as hat channel supports, vertical roof trim, ridge caps, and finished end trim, which add rigidity and durability to the building. Because the longest roof panel available is 35 feet, all buildings longer than 35 feet are required to use a vertical roof to avoid splicing panels. Horizontal roofs over this length are not covered by warranty.

Best for: longevity, drainage, large buildings, and premium performance.

Image showing two steel framed structures, labeled 'Boxed Eave Style,' one in a three-quarter view and the other in an isometric view, both designed as covered, open-sided shelters.

Boxed Eave Roof Style (Mid-Level Option)

The Boxed Eave (A-Frame Horizontal) roof also uses an A-frame design, but the steel panels are installed horizontally, running from front to back. The underside of the eaves is finished with boxed trim, giving the building a clean, residential appearance.

This style is more affordable than a vertical roof because it does not require the additional hat channel support system. However, because the roof panels run horizontally, water and debris do not shed as efficiently as with a vertical roof. As with other horizontal roof styles, buildings longer than 35 feet should be vertical to avoid panel splicing.

Best for: appearance, moderate budgets, and buildings under 35 feet.

Diagram comparing a regular style greenhouse with a red roof to a frame outline of the same greenhouse structure.

Regular Roof Style (Most Economical Option)

The Regular Roof features a radius-bend frame design with steel panels installed horizontally, running from front to back. Unlike the Boxed Eave or Vertical roof styles, the Regular roof does not include eaves. Instead, the roof sheet is curled over the corner of the legs, creating a smooth, rounded edge.

Because it does not include eave trim, ridge caps, or additional structural transitions, the Regular roof is the most economical roof option. While it provides reliable coverage, water and debris tend to remain on the roof longer than with a Vertical roof. For this reason, and due to panel length limitations, buildings longer than 35–36 feet are recommended to use a Vertical roof, as horizontal roofs over this length are not covered by warranty.

Best for: budget-focused projects, smaller buildings, and simple coverage needs.

Choosing the right roof matters. While Regular and Boxed Eave roofs offer solid coverage and value, many customers choose the Vertical roof for its superior drainage, added rigidity, and long-term durability—especially on larger buildings. It’s the most popular choice for customers planning to keep their building for years to come.