What is a Gable Roof?

gable roofs

Different types of gable roofs | Difference between a hip roof vs gable roof | Advantages of a gable roof | Disadvantages of gable roofs

A gable roof is a roof type that is most recognizable by its triangular shape. This shape is achieved by comprising two equal roof planes in a way that creates a slope opposite of the roof ridge. The sloping starts from the ridge and falls toward the ends of the roof.

Gable roofs are also known as ‘peaked’ roofs because of the characteristic A-shaped design of the homes. In most cases, these roof designs can be found in areas with winter conditions as they can shed water or snow very easily.

Different Types of Gable Roofs

Depending on the shape of the property as well as the preferences of the clients there are several gable roof types on the market.

Side Gable Roof

Side gable is the basic pitched roof design. A house with a gabled roof has a front door under one of the two sides of the roof slope.

Front gable Roof

Found amongst Colonial-style homes, the most recognizable feature of this roof type is the place of the front door, which typically is under the gable.

Dutch Gable Roof

The Dutch gable roof is a combination of hip roof and gable roof. These type of roofs have the gable on top of the hip roof and is a great solution for a property with multiple owners.

Crossed Gable Roof

Consisted of two gable roof sections that are perpendicular to each other, this roof design is the best solution for a home with separate wings.

most common roof shapes
Most common roof shapes

Difference between a Hip Roof vs Gable Roof

The main difference between the gable roof and the hip roof is the shape. The hip roof, also known as the ‘pyramid roof’, is sloped on all four sides and instead of a ridge, the slopes meet in a peak. This roof style comes as a better solution in high wind areas compared to the gable roof and is made to endure heavy snow.

You can expect more living space by installing a hip roof, especially when a dormer crow’s nest is added. Providing all of these advantages, hip roofs cost more compared to gable roofs.

Advantages of a Gable Roof

Gable roofs are very simple to design and build therefore you will not spend a lot of money to install them. Having in mind that they can be constructed with any type of roofing material like metal, clay, or concrete tiles, asphalt shingles, gable roofs are the cost-effective and budget-friendly solution for your project.

This type of roof design is suitable for cold weather conditions as it easily gets rid of the excess amount of snow. Gable roofs allow more ventilation with gable vents and provide more attic space compared to the hip roof.

Disadvantages of Gable Roofs

Gable roofs can easily collapse in high wind areas especially if the frames are not properly supported. Another threat to gable roofs is cracking. As they are composed of frame and tile, during the time after longer exposure to sun and rain, the surface may become vulnerable and will require repair.

Even it is not likely to leak because of the sloping sides, sometimes this roof will not be able to withstand the rain. To prevent any risk of damaging your gable roof, make sure to pay attention to the installation process. It is recommended to use 40 degrees roof angle so that the water can easily flow downward.

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