Gable roofs are one of the most popular roofs in home design today. They’re sturdy, relatively easy to construct, and can significantly impact a home’s overall curb appeal. This post will discuss gable roof basics, different styles, materials, and more. Here’s a look at what you need to know about gable roofs.
Gable Roofs 101: What You Need to Know
Let’s start by talking a bit about what defines a gable roof. Developed in ancient Greece, a gable roof is defined by at least two sloped sides at each end, connected at the highest point on a top, forming a triangle. If you think back to a simple square home, similar to the one you might have drawn in elementary school while growing up, you likely were sketching a house with a gable roof. Or, if you think of an A-frame home, a gable roof helps its design truly pop and stand out.
Gable roofs can be built using various materials, including metal, asphalt shingles, terracotta tiles, and natural slate. These materials are long-lasting and can even last more than a hundred years with proper care and maintenance.
What’s neat about gable roofs is that they can be as straightforward or complex as a property owner desires. Combining different types of gable roofs can create genuinely unique designer homes.
Types of Gable Roofs
Various styles can help create a unique look on a property, from open gable roofs to flying gable roofs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the various gable roof styles:
- Open gable roof: This is the conventional gable roof design, where two sides meet at a single peak. Some may refer to this type of roof as a “pyramid roof.”
- Cross gabled roof: This type has two gable lines intersecting at a 90-degree angle.
- Flying gable roof: This is where the ridge overhang extends out beyond the eave overhang.
Gable Roof Advantages
Now that we’ve covered some of the basics and various gable roof styles let’s dig into some of the advantages of this type of roof design. Here’s a closer look:
- Good in rain and snow: Gable roof designs typically have a steeper slope than other types of roofs. The steepness helps transport rainwater runoff and snowmelt to the gutters faster.
- More affordable to build: While the total cost during construction varies based on materials used, size, and other factors, gable roofs generally cost less to build than different types of roofs. What’s more, is their design typically lends itself to more interior attic space for internal storage.
- Versatility: Many property owners like gable roofs for their versatility. Gable roofs are present in classic Victorian-style homes to modern-day contemporary, creating incredibly unique designs. The overall aesthetics can help with curb appeal and resale value.
Contact Signature Exteriors Today
While your roof is essential to the overall aesthetics of your property, it’s also imperative that it’s properly maintained. Regardless of the style, all roofs are likely to need maintenance and repair over their lifetime. Consider scheduling an inspection at least once a year, especially on aging roofs, to help identify minor problems before they become large ones and administer the necessary repairs. Of all the advantages of gable roofs, one common disadvantage is that they tend to require more maintenance than other types of roofing, so it’s essential to know a trusted contractor that you can rely on for maintenance when necessary. Contact us today to learn more about the gable style roof and roofing replacement and repairs.
