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Gambrel Roof | Gambrel Roof House | Complete Guide

Gambrel Roof

This article has explained everything about the gambrel roof, its history, advantages and disadvantages, and how to build a gambrel roof house.

The roof is an important part of any structure that will help us protect from aggressive environmental conditions. It is a structural component that helps to protect your structure from aggressive environmental conditions.

Due to the essential nature of roofing in the construction of buildings, different types of roofs are made and used around the world.

The roof of the structure is a unique architectural feature of the building that sets it apart. There are certain types of roofs that directly impact the value of the property, so if you are looking for a new roof design, it is crucial to choose an attractive and unique structure.

With its nostalgia and extra floor space, the gambrel roof is rapidly gaining new interest among homeowners looking for a spacious, functional chair.

Contrary to popular belief, roofing is not only used in sheds and gambrel roofs. It is also found in Dutch Colonial-style mansions and homes.

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What Is a Gambrel Roof?

Gambrel style house is a type of roof that is basically a  top of the structure with two slopes on each side. Typically, the bottom hole is very high in a gambrel roof, while the top slip is at a relatively low angle.

The primary purpose of building this roof is to increase the inside height of the upper floor of the building and reduce the high ceiling feature of the building.

The cross-section of the barn-style roof is the same as that of the top of the gambrel roof. The only difference is that the gambrel roof has vertical gambrel ends, and the building structure is not attached to the four corners.

The gambrel roof is laid so that it hangs at the front of the building. The upper part of the gambrel roof is formed at an angle of 30 degrees, while the other part gambrel roof is formed at an angle of 60 degrees. However, it can be modified and customized as per the user’s needs and requirements or the developer.

Gambrel roof provides an aesthetic look to the structure. In addition, it maximizes the space above the building structure. One reason for its popularity is that complete construction can be completed within limited financial or economic resources.

History of Gambrel Roofs

Although the exact origins of the Bacon ceiling design in the United States are unknown, it is believed that the gambrel roof was first created at Harvard in 1677.

But the gambrel roof was soon influenced by Europeans who chose it for their Georgia homes. You can find this type of roof in the colonies of Holland and Georgia and various construction styles in the world.

Some see this gambrel roof design as a distinctive form of roofing, but its length, which is several hundred years, is undeniable. The original painters provided more living space on the third floor of the building, hence their reputation, while the modern version is preferred for its visual benefits.

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Gambrel Roof Construction

The construction of a gambrel roof begins with the construction of a frame. The framework involves building a series of separate trusses that are usually the same size. The number of gambrels required depends largely on the size of the roof being constructed.

The shingles are then assembled on a smooth surface, and roof beams are provided on each side of the pitched roof that is properly secured with the assembled board. Once all the gambrels are complete, they are immediately mounted on the building structure. Then the support is placed on the floor.

Finally, the roof is covered. Roof decks made of wood, metal, asphalt, or shingles are commonly used for covering tiles.

How Much Does a Gambrel Roof Cost?

This price has been updated as of September 2021 and may vary by location or country. These rates of the gambrel roofs are calculated based on costs in European and American countries.

Generally, building materials and Gambrel Roof framing labor costs can range from $8 to $14 per square foot. Cost estimates range from approximately $16,000 to $28,000 for a 2,000-square-foot space.

Covers such as shingles, wood, asphalt, metal, etc., can range from $4 to $20 per square foot. So the total cost of construction material is around $8,000 to $40,000. Therefore, the estimated total cost of 2,000 square feet ranges from $24,000 to $68,000, including labor and construction materials.

You should know that high-quality materials lead to higher construction costs. Due to the current scenario created by COVID-19, Commodity prices have risen. So, if you want to build this roof, wait till December 2021. You can save 10-20% of the total cost if you do this later.

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How Long Is the Life of a Gambrel Roof?

The life span of a gambrel roof house depends on the design, installation, weather conditions, construction materials, maintenance factors, etc. On average, gambrel limits can vary between 30 and 40 years of age.

According to survey reports, thatch roofs maintained or covered with durable materials such as sheet metal and installed efficiently and professionally can last up to a century. On the other hand, a gambrel house covered with a material such as wood or asphalt has a shorter life span than that of a metal gambrel Roof.

Variations of a Gambrel Roof

The basic gambrel-style house may vary depending on individual needs. Here are the types of gambrel roofs: 

1. Classic Gambrel Roof

The most common gambrel roof design is commonly seen on warehouse and shed roofs. The main advantage of the Classic Gambler is its two-patch design, which allows the homeowner to maximize attic space.

2. Mansard

The French-style roof is similar to a gambler board in that it offers flexibility in stadium design and integration. 

3. Wall-Supported Gambrel

The wall-supported gambrel design is very beautiful. There are no ledge panels in this roof design. However, the lower patch limits the possibility of adding more space, making it unpopular with homeowners who need the extra storage space.

Now that you know a lot about the advantages and disadvantages of the gambrel roof, you are ready to learn how to build this roof for your home or cottage.

Gambrel Roof Advantages and Disadvantages

There are some Advantages and Disadvantages of Gambrel roof, which are as follows

Advantages of Gambrel Roof

Gambrel Roof Advantages

There are various advantages of gambrel roof advantages which are as follows

1. It Presents a Unique Historical Figure

This gives the structure a special historical character. Therefore, it is commonly used in Georgian, American, and Dutch cultures. Due to the historical environment that the gambrel roof provided, it was widely used during the colonial period in the United States.

In some countries, these roofs are considered to suit the cultural tastes of the country and are still used for the roofs of buildings.

2. Low Requirements for Building Materials

It requires relatively little building material compared to other types of roofs. Gambrel roof designs do not need new construction methods like support columns or beams.

This allows homeowners to spend less on building materials and work when building a roofing system. Since then, gambrel roof construction requires only roof beams, and the entire design must be completed with a guesthouse, thus minimizing all the financial resources needed for construction. The price of a gambrel roof is much less than a mansard roof.

3. Making a Mansard Roof Is Easy

Relatively easy to make. There is a very simple way to make such a ceiling. Construction is also easier when more space is required for an upper floor or even when higher ceilings are required. The framing technique required is also simple enough that the business owner can easily use it.

4. Best Cleaning Facilities

It offers excellent exchange facilities. The high floor of the gambrel roof provides a good drainage facility even during heavy rains. Rain also comes from the edge of the building without hold. The problem of stagnant water, leakage, etc., has reduced considerably.

It also reduces long-term maintenance needs and costs. It also reduces the need for gutters and other additional rain management systems.

5. Long Duration

It can last for decades when properly constructed or installed using the right materials. Appropriately covered, it will withstand a plethora of adversity.

6. Max Position

Provides maximum space. For this reason, gambrel roofs are commonly used for terraces and umbrellas outside storage buildings.

7. Add Windows

It makes it easy to attach windows to the ceiling. Adding windows can be an easy way to add natural light to an additional space. It can also be used to enhance the overall aesthetic appearance.

8. Multiple Choices for Building Materials

The building materials needed to build a gambrel roof are diverse (for example, various materials can be used). Building materials that can be used include shingles, slate, or asphalt.

The use of metal as a building material can reduce the amount of protection required and increase suitability in any given geography. If the building or structure is built in an area subject to harsh climatic conditions, a stronger frame may be used.

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Disadvantages of Gambrel Roof

Gambrel Roof Disadvantages

There are also some disadvantages of Gambrel roof, which are as follows

1. Weak Snow Resistance

Offers weak resistance to snow accumulation. The gambrel roof slip design effectively lets snow through, but snow collects on top of this option. Therefore, long heavy snow can put a lot of pressure on the structure, causing the roof to collapse.

2. Uneven Fabrics Due to Different Weather Patterns

Alternating wind patterns can cause uneven destruction of the gambrel roof. Regular maintenance should be done to prevent air pollution.

3. Problems with Retrofitting

When reconstruction begins, significant challenges may arise. Highly skilled experts can only do retrofitting with suitable retrofitting methods.

4. Possibility of Wind Damage

It does not provide high resistance to wind loads and is therefore highly undesirable for areas with high wind exposure.

5. Water Proof Requirements

It should be waterproof, especially in the mountains, to prevent major damage caused by monsoon rains.

Gambrel Roof Vs Mansard Roof

Gambrels have two identical sides of the roof with slipways on opposite sides. Call each other around the gambrel roof where the red ones are. The gambrel’s roof is always steep, with a tall point on the main beam, while the mansard roof is lower.

Furthermore, a mansard roof is a four-sided, not a two-sided, structure. There is no ridge between the double roof mansard as the upper part is not very wide.

If you are considering a new roof design and are interested in a gambrel roof, it would be best to familiarize yourself with its advantages and disadvantages before building this structure for your warehouse or home.

Materials of Mansard Roof

Homeowners who choose mansard roofs often choose special designs to stand out from their neighbors. They can choose a particular roofing material, such as slate shingles in the form of a diamond or a shiny metal roof like copper.

Mansard roofs are the best choice for this type of roof. The softness of the mansard allows snow to pass through the roof quickly. Plus, mansard roofs come in various styles that can help make your home stand out from the crowd. Most roofing materials will work well with this roofing style, but homeowners should stay away from structure panels.

Materials of Gambrel Roof

Wood and slate are common, especially for thatch roofs, but almost any material will work. However, due to its durability and length, slate or sheet metal is one of the best materials for gambling decks. Metal roofs can last up to 40 years of lifespan and they also require less maintenance.

Heavy product materials such as metals reduce the risk of air damage and reduce maintenance costs over time. Choosing the style of your bedroom ceiling can be difficult, and as we saw above, many factors need to be considered. Some ceiling styles are perfect for a specific architectural style, but the choice will ultimately come down to personal taste.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Gambrel Roof

A gambrel or gambrel roof is usually a symmetrical double-sided roof consisting of two slopes on each side. (The common architectural term in eighteenth-century England and North America was “Dutch roof”.) The upper slope is located at a shallower angle, while the lower slope is sloping.

Barn Style Roof

The Gambrel roof is also known as the “barn style” roof.

Gambrel Roof Framing

Gambler roof framing is a symmetrical double-sided roof with two slopes on each side. The lower slopes are located at sloping angles while the upper slopes are more shallow. For a standard gamble roof, the peak is built at a 30-degree angle and the second slope is at 60 degrees.

Are Gambrel Roofs More Expensive?

Generally, building materials and Gambrel Roof framing labor costs can range from $8 to $14 per square foot. Cost estimates range from approximately $16,000 to $28,000 for a 2,000-square-foot space.

What Pitch Is a Gambrel Roof?

The angle, or pitch, of a roof, is calculated by the number of inches it rises vertically for every 12 inches it extends horizontally. For example, a roof that rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of the horizontal run has a 6-in-12 pitch. Calculate gambrel angles with graph paper and a protractor.

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