Crow-stepped gable
A crow-stepped gable, also known as a stepped gable or corbie step, is a design for a building’s triangular gable end. It takes the form of a stair-step pattern at the top of the stone or brick parapet wall which projects above the roofline.
Used as decoration, as well as being a convenient method for finishing brick or stone courses, crow-stepped gables were traditionally used on Dutch houses, Danish medieval churches, and Scottish buildings dating back to the 16th century. They were also a feature of the northern-Renaissance Revival and Dutch Colonial Revival styles of 19th century America.
Crow steps are commonly made of sandstone or brick, which, due to their porosity, generally have to be capped with lead or a stone coping, or sealed with other materials.
In addition, as the roofing slates do not reach the outer face of the gable with crow steps, several techniques had to be employed in order to maintain the water-tightness, including:
- Raising the last slate using a wedge and laying mortar over the edge to seal the gap.
- Cutting a groove approximately 25 mm (1 inch) deep to the inside edge of the steps and inserting a lead abutment flashing.
- Lead flashings placed into the joints between bricks as they are laid.
See also: Crow-step.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.