tetti

Tetti is the plural of tetto in Italian, meaning the exterior cover of a building that protects interior spaces from weather. The term derives from Latin tectum, indicating a covering or roof.

Architectural forms of tetti vary by region and climate. Common classifications include tetto piano (flat roof) and tetto spiovente (sloped roof). A tetto a due falde has two main slopes, while a tetto a una falda has a single slope. A mansard roof, or tetto a mansarda, features a steep upper slope and a lower, usually flatter, section. Roofs may incorporate dormers, eaves, and chimneys, and their pitch influences drainage, snow load, and heat gain. In snowy or mountainous areas, steeper pitches are typical to shed snow; in Mediterranean and arid regions, flatter or low-pitched roofs are more common and may provide usable outdoor space.

Materials and construction have historically reflected local resources. Traditional coverings include clay tiles (tegole or coppi), slate, and wooden shingles. Modern roofs often use metal sheeting, bituminous membranes, and composite panels, crafted to balance aesthetics, durability, and insulation. The roof system comprises structural framing, waterproofing layers, insulation, and finish coverings, with maintenance focusing on sealing joints, replacing damaged tiles, and clearing drainage paths.

In cultural contexts, tetti contribute to a region’s architectural silhouette and climate adaptation. The term may also appear in names and phrases beyond everyday use, reflecting the central role of roofing in building design and urban aesthetics.