Gambrel Roof
A Gambrel roof has two symmetrical sides and features a central ridge. There are two sloping surfaces on each side of the roof.
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The upper section usually has a lower pitch of about 30 degrees and shorter in length. The lower slope is steeper and longer than the upper section of the roof. Gambrel roof is very common in rural America, the European plains, and some parts of Asia. It is a very simple roofing system with distinct country style look. It can also withstand severe weather condition and strong winds.
Ideal Uses for Gambrel Roof
There is a reason why the Gambrel style roofing system is popular in rural communities. Because of the unique construction of a Gambrel roof, it provides ample roof space which can be used as storage.
Typically, the Gambrel system is applied on barns, garages, cottage homes, and farm cabins. The wider space inside the roof can be used to store hay, farm produce, tools, and other farm materials. It is not surprising that this roofing system is also known as barn roofs or hay roofs.
Efficient Use of Roofing Materials
With the Gambrel roof system, the roofing materials can be used more efficiently. Short pieces of lumber are used to form the trusses. These pieces of lumbers are joined together in order to support the weight of the entire roof.
The trusses spread the weight of the entire roof and direct the stress areas towards the exterior structures. Because of this, there is no need for you to construct additional interior weight bearing structural support. So you will get a very wide and unimpeded floor area and an equally wider upstairs space.
More Room for Innovation
If you have a Gambrel roof, it would be very easy to add a dormer. A dormer is an additional structure to the slope of the roof. It could enhance the beauty of your roof and add more functionality to it.
A dormer can be used on any type of roofing but it is normally added to a Gambrel roof. It can be an extra source of lighting and could resemble the functionality of a skylight. With a dormer, you will further maximize headspace in your attic or upstairs rooms.