Gambrel roof
A gambrel roof (also known simply as a gambrel), is a type of two-sided roof that is characterised by vertical gable ends and two slopes on each side. The upper slope is of a shallower pitch than the lower slope which is steeper.
It is similar to a Mansard roof but differs in that it is not hipped, but has vertical gable ends instead. It also typically overhangs the building façade, whereas a Mansard does not.
The etymology of the name is from ‘gamba’, a Medieval Latin term meaning ‘horse’s hock’ or ‘leg’. It was a design that was commonly used for barns and domestic roofs in America.
The advantage of the gambrel roof design is that it can provide an elegant aesthetic and allows for increased storage or living space beneath its steeper sides. It maximises headroom inside the upper storey of the building whilst lowering, what would if it were simply-pitched, be a very tall roof.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Building Safety Regulator appoints permanent director
And publishes three-year strategic plan.
Update on the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS)
Introducing changes to make it more effective from 2024.
2023 CIOB photography competition
Shortlist announced for 2023 public choice award vote.
The last of the Victorians. Book review.
Grimsby's Kasbah: where’s that?
An exotic name that is shrouded in mystery.
This weeks guest editor, Ankita Dwivedi of Firstplanit.
Fropm practice to research and the business of materials.
Terms, histories, theories and practices.
Types of work to existing buildings - repurposing of buildings
Alteration and everything else before demolition.
2023 HSE data on workplace injuries and ill health
And CIOB's response.
Building Safety Act and Secondary Legislation
Presidential update from CIAT's Eddie Weir PCIAT.
Starting pistol Statement for an election campaign?
Rates freeze, NI cuts, full expensing; early election?
Positive pressure or positive input ventilation
Could this be a remedy for condensation, damp or mould?
Unlocking a Healthier Tomorrow
Report on Social housing retrofit in Scotland 2023
Call for ministerial group and National Retrofit Delivery Plan.