How to Design a Gable Roof

Sketch the general outline of the house and roof that you're planning. The placement and engineering of rafters and joists can be customized to the overall look that you're seeking. Determining the pitch of the roof is an important part of the design process. Steeper roofs will create a house that looks more old-fashioned and traditional, while flatter roofs create a more contemporary look.

Lay out the design of the rafters after you have completed some drawings of the roof. The rafter pattern for a gable roof is very straightforward. The only major decision that you need to make is whether you'll build the roof with independent pairs of rafters or with a ridge pole that runs the length of the gable ridge.

Decide on any decorative effects that you may want to include on the gable ends. Traditional gable-roofed houses may feature fancy attic windows placed into the gable ends as an exterior accent.