What Is a Gambrel?

Features

• Gambrel roofs feature a peaked ridgeline that are double sloped on either side. The first slope gently slants away from the peak and the second angles off more steeply, to a horizontal or near-horizontal pitch. It provides a spacious top story with a canopy ceiling, similar to a barn hayloft, which is suitable as living or attic space.

Considerations

• Altering the gambrel style requires changing the roof pitch and rafter length for both slopes and adjusting the purlin (horizontal beams bridging the rafters) spacing. Loft floors demand sturdier construction to support the weight for storage afforded by gambrel style roofs. This roof design directs the lateral forces to the outside walls, reducing the need for internal load bearing walls and opening up floor space.

Advantages and Disadvantages.

• Gambrel roofs provide greater ceiling clearances and increased storage capacity in the loft area. Forty year shingles extend the roof life, and reinforcing the outer walls strengthens their load-bearing capacity. The main disadvantage to Gambrel style architecture is the higher cost of construction.