Advantages of a Gabled Roof

Gabled roofs are one of two main roof types used in domestic home building. Because of there universal appeal, relatively minor problems and affordability, gabled roofs are the most common type of roof used in both the United States and Europe. There are many advantages to using a gabled roof design when building a home.

Identification

A gabled roof is a common roof type that is characterized by a roof with same-angled slopes. From a pointed tip, the gables angle down to create a roof that looks like a triangle. Technically, "gable" refers to the triangular portion of the wall that sits under the sloped roof. Gabled roofs are usually built with a 20 to 45 degree angle gradation, though it isn't uncommon to have a steeper or more level slope as well. A gabled roof allows for an additional half-story of space on the top level of the home. Gabled roofs are the most common roof type in both the United States and Europe.

Benefits

Gabled roofs were designed to help water runoff. The angled sides act as a slide, using gravity to help water flow off of the roof. They are also very useful in climates with heavy snowfall. The weight of snow on a roof can cause damaging effects to the roofs structure and it can also cause a roof to cave in, but the steep slopes of gabled roofs help to alleviate the pressure and weight of heavy snow and rainfall. Another major benefit to gabled roof design is that they can often be used to subvert building restrictions. In communities that hold strict building codes, especially in historic districts, storied houses are banned in order to maintain the style of the community. Gabled roofs, however, can be used to add a partial story without looking like another story has been built. One of the most important benefits to gabled roofs, however, is the cost. Gabled roofs are the most common roof design in the United States. This popularity means that there is competition in the market, which drives down the cost. Modern building technology and pre-fabricated roofs are also a factor in there affordability.

Function

The main function of a gabled roof is in the ease of installation. Gabled roofs are easy to construct, work in most climates and are the cheapest roof to install. The traditional gable roof is of a simple design, constructed with two slopes, which utilize gravity in order to protect the roof from the elements. Gabled roofs help to add space to a home, without taking space from the housing lot. When urban developments became increasingly more expensive in the late 1800s, people began to construct upwards in order to save money, utilizing the air space on a small housing lot.

Types

There are several different types and variations to gabled roofs that are dependent on the slope pattern, varying gradations and ornamentations, among other variables. Side-gabled and front-gabled roof types are determined by where the front door is located. Side-gabled is when the door is on the non-gabled side and front-gabled is when the door is on the gabled wall. Cross-gabled roofs occur when there is more than one section having its own separate peak. The sections are perpendicular and create a valley in the roof intersection. Crow-stepped gables are a type of gabled roof thats slopes are created using a stair-step design. Ornamental gables, like those that are common for Cathedrals, are called Wimpergs. The French gable or Mansard is a type of gabled roof that is characterized by its unique bell shape. French gables often look like the pinnacle has been cut off.

Warning

While the benefits of gabled roofs are vast, there are some climates that see gable roofs as a liability. Because of the design, a gabled roof acts similar to a sail. Heavy winds will create lift under the eaves that can force the roof to peel completely off of its frame. It is for this reason that gabled roofs are highly uncommon in areas that run a high risk of hurricanes and tornadoes. Steep slopes are less likely to see this effect and newer gabled roof designs employ the addition of a vertical edge that helps to eliminate this dangerous effect.

Resources

• How to Build a Gabled Roof