Types of roofs: discover the different solutions and their applications
There are different options that can be adapted to the characteristics and needs of each location. The material, shape, amount of light entering or level of insulation are some of the factors that can influence which roof is most suitable for the project.
A roof does not have to be used only for an industrial building. It can also be used to cover padel and tennis courts, sports facilities, aircraft and helicopter hangars or equestrian facilities.
In this blog, we will explain the main types of roofs, look at how they are used and what advantages they can offer in each case.
Types of roofs according to the type of covering
There are different roofing solutions that can be used depending on the needs of the project. For this reason, we will explain which types of roofs can be used:
Standard textile membrane roof
The standard textile membrane roof is one of the solutions offered by Okatent for its pavilions.
It is made of a high-density polyester fabric coated with PVC and has a translucent structure that allows natural light to be used to illuminate the interior. This feature can help reduce the need for electric lighting during the day.
It is a solution used, among other cases, in small-format industrial buildings, temporary warehouses and sports roofs for individual courts.
Opaque membrane roof
Another possibility is to use an opaque membrane roof, made with PVC-coated polyester membranes and an inner black thread that blocks the passage of light. This prevents external light from entering and provides greater control over the lighting of the interior space.
This type of roof can be interesting for projects where the aim is to limit the entry of natural light or control indoor conditions.
At Okatent, we include opaque membranes among the upper enclosure options for pavilions, allowing the solution to be selected according to the needs of each project.
Pressurised roofs use a double membrane between which an air chamber is created. This configuration favours the thermal insulation of the structure and can be particularly interesting for projects located in areas with high temperatures.
In our case, this solution is developed through the OKCAS® system, which uses two layers of polyester textile membrane coated with PVC and a system that maintains internal pressure. The air chamber contributes to improving the thermal insulation of the roof and increases its resistance to wind.
In addition, at Okatent we have OKCAS FIBER, an evolution of the system that incorporates synthetic fibres to further improve the thermal and acoustic insulation of the installation. This solution can be particularly interesting for projects where, in addition to thermal control, the aim is to reduce noise transmission.
We use these systems in larger-scale applications, such as padel stadiums, megafactories, hangars and industrial facilities, adapting the solution to the needs of each project.
Roofs according to design and ventilation
In addition to the type of membrane, roofs can be configured according to the climatic conditions and ventilation needs of the project. At Okatent, different solutions are considered:
- Continental Roof: a compact structure with good thermal performance, suitable for climates with moderate temperatures and humidity.
- Mediterranean Roof: incorporates visors to increase the shaded area, improve comfort conditions and reduce glare. It is especially designed for sunny climates.
- Tropical Roof: combines the roof with visors and a natural ventilation system that promotes convection and air circulation. It is a suitable solution for hot climates with high humidity levels.
The choice between these solutions will depend on the climatic conditions of the location and the characteristics of each project.
Roof customisation
In addition to choosing between different roofing solutions, Okatent allows the pavilion to be customised according to the needs of each project.
Among the possibilities is the option of creating transparent pavilions, designed for projects where the aim is to maximise the entry of natural light. It is also possible to choose the colour of the canvas according to the company’s branding and add lettering to the roof canvas to adapt the structure to the corporate image of each project.
Types of roofs according to their shape
In addition to the material and enclosure system, the shape of the roof can also vary depending on the characteristics of the project, the dimensions of the space and the use of the structure.
Gable roof
The gable roof has two slopes and is a configuration used in different structures.
This design makes it possible to cover large spaces and facilitate the drainage of water and snow.
Curved roof
Curved roofs have an arched shape and can be used especially in certain sports facilities.
This type of roof allows the necessary dimensions for different sports to be respected and can be applied to this type of project.
Polygonal roof
Polygonal roofs are made up of different planes and allow large interior spaces to be created.
This type of solution can be used in large industrial buildings, multi-sports courts, padel pavilions and Olympic swimming pools.
The shape of the roof can therefore also be an important factor when designing a structure.
What benefits does a roof provide depending on its application?
Not all structures have the same needs. A roof intended for storing goods must meet different requirements from one used for practising sports or storing an aircraft.
Therefore, in addition to knowing the types of roofs, it is important to analyse what benefits each solution can provide depending on how the space is used.
Roofs for industrial buildings
In an industrial building, the roof must protect the space intended for activities such as storage, production or logistics.
One of our advantages is the possibility of adapting the roof to the needs of the project. This allows different solutions to be considered depending on the characteristics of the activity carried out inside.
In addition, at Okatent we use OKCAS® pressurised roofs in large-scale industrial projects.
What can a roof provide in this type of project?
- Protection of the workspace and storage area.
- Possibility of making use of natural light with certain roofs.
- Options with greater insulation through pressurised systems.
- Adaptation of the solution to the dimensions and needs of the pavilion.
Roofs for aviation hangars
Aircraft and helicopter hangars need covered spaces that allow aircraft to be stored and maintenance work to be carried out.
One of the most important features is having a structure that adapts to the dimensions of the aircraft and their access requirements.
In addition, we manufacture customised hangars for aircraft and helicopters with different types of fuselage, with large spans and adaptable access points. The OKCAS® system is also used in hangars as one of the applications of its pressurised roofs.
What can a roof provide in a hangar?
- Protection of aircraft from external conditions.
- Creation of a covered space for storage and maintenance.
- Possibility of adapting the dimensions of the structure.
- Roof options suitable for large-scale projects.
Roofs for padel and tennis courts
Roofs for padel and tennis have a different purpose: creating a protected space where racket sports can be played.
At Okatent, we manufacture roofs for padel and tennis courts and have solutions adapted to this type of facility.
In these projects, the roof can help protect the courts from weather conditions and allow sports activities to take place throughout the year. Okatent describes its sports pavilions as solutions for practising sports 365 days a year regardless of the weather.
In addition, the OKCAS® system is used in large-format applications such as padel stadiums.
What can a roof provide for padel or tennis?
- Protection from rain and other weather conditions.
- Possibility of using the courts throughout the year.
- Adaptation of the structure to the dimensions of the courts.
- Different roof options depending on lighting and comfort requirements.
Roofs for sports facilities
Roofs can also transform an outdoor sports facility into a protected space.
At Okatent, we manufacture sports pavilions for padel, football, equestrian and other facilities, adapting the structures to the characteristics of each sport.
One of the main benefits is being able to practise sports regardless of weather conditions, which is particularly relevant for facilities that need to maintain their activity throughout the year.
Roofs for equestrian facilities
Covered structures can also be used in equestrian centres, stables and riding arenas.
At Okatent, we have pavilions designed to cover equestrian facilities, including riding schools, stables and equestrian arenas.
In this case, the roof allows a protected space to be created for carrying out activities and taking care of horses.
The advantages of having a roof in an equestrian facility include:
- Having a protected space for activities.
- Protecting the facilities from weather conditions.
- Adapting the pavilion to the dimensions of the arena or space to be covered.
- Creating a covered space for different uses within the facility.
How to choose the right type of roof?
There is no single type of roof that is better for all projects. The choice should be made taking into account the use, dimensions and specific needs of the space.
Some of the aspects that should be considered are:
- What will the space be used for?
The first step is to determine whether it is an industrial building, a hangar, a sports court, an equestrian facility or another type of project.
- Is natural light required?
If you want to make use of natural lighting, a translucent roof may be an option to consider. If you need to block the entry of light, opaque solutions are available.
- Is insulation required?
In projects where thermal insulation is particularly relevant, a pressurised roof such as the OKCAS® system can be considered, whose air chamber improves the insulating properties of the roof.
- What dimensions does the structure need to cover?
The dimensions of the space also influence the design. At Okatent we manufacture everything from lightweight structures to large-scale structures and adapt our pavilions to the needs of each project.
- What type of activity will take place?
A storage facility does not require the same solution as a sports court or an aviation hangar. Therefore, analysing the use from the beginning helps to select the most suitable roof.
Okatent roofs: solutions adapted to each project
As we have seen, talking about types of roofs does not mean talking about a single solution. There are different materials, shapes and configurations that can be adapted to different spaces.
At Okatent we have different roofing options for our pavilions, including standard textile membranes, opaque membranes and pressurised roofs, as well as different customisation possibilities.
These solutions can be used in very different projects: industrial buildings, aircraft and helicopter hangars, padel and tennis courts, sports facilities and equestrian facilities, among others.
The key is to analyse each project individually and choose the roof that best meets its needs.
Frequently asked questions about types of roofs
Are textile roofs waterproof?
Yes, the textile membranes used in this type of structure are designed to provide protection against water and weather conditions.
This allows the interior space to remain protected even when the structure is exposed to rain and other external elements.
Can a roof be installed over an existing structure?
In some projects, it is possible to adapt a roofing solution to an existing structure, although its characteristics, dimensions and condition must first be analysed. A technical study makes it possible to determine which system can be installed and what adaptations would be required.
Do Okatent roofs require maintenance?
Like any element exposed to the outdoors, roofs require regular inspections and maintenance to check their condition and preserve their performance. The specific requirements will depend on the type of roof, environmental conditions and characteristics of the installation.
What is the difference between a conventional roof and a pressurised roof?
The main difference lies in the configuration of the roof. A conventional roof uses a single membrane, while a pressurised roof incorporates two layers between which an air chamber is created.
This system makes it possible to improve certain structural performance characteristics, particularly in projects requiring higher levels of insulation and large dimensions.
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