There are many roof styles that you can choose for your home. Gambrel roofs, also known as barn roofs, are a popular roofing style for residential buildings.
At BRH Enterprises LLC, we are your local roofers serving Mayville and the surrounding areas of Wisconsin. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about gambrel roofs.
*Please note, price ranges listed in this article may not reflect the final cost of your project. Prices are subject to change based on various factors such as local labor rates, material quality, and more. All costs established in this article are rough estimates based on average industry rates.
What Is A Gambrel Roof?
Gambrel roofs are roof designs that have two slopes on each side.
The upper slope is positioned at a shallow angle, while the lower slope is steeper. This design creates the classic barn-like appearance, which you can see in the picture below.
Gambrel roofs originated in Europe and became popular in the U.S. during the 18th century, particularly in Dutch Colonial architecture.
Historically, this roof style was loved by farmers because it provided extra space for storing hay and equipment in their barns.
Over time, the practical benefits of gambrel roofs made them increasingly popular for residential homes, especially in Dutch Colonial and Georgian architectural styles.
Today, gambrel roof-style homes continue to be appreciated for both their aesthetic appeal and functional advantages.
What Are The Pros and Cons of Gambrel Roofs?
Now that you know what a gambrel roof is and its history, we will talk about the pros and cons of these roofs. After reading this, you will have a better idea of whether these roofs are the best choice for your property.
Pros
#1 Extra Interior Space
The beautiful design of a gambrel roof provides usable space in the upper level of your home. This extra room can serve as an attic, storage area, or even be converted into living space, such as a bedroom or an office.
Many homeowners appreciate this benefit because it gives them more square footage without increasing their home’s footprint on the property.
#2 Efficient Water Drainage
The steep lower slopes of a gambrel roof allow rain and snow to run off quickly and efficiently.
This design helps prevent water from pooling on your roof, which reduces the risk of leaks and water damage over time. Better drainage means fewer moisture-related problems for your roof structure and attic space.
#3 Cost-Effective Design
Despite their complex appearance, gambrel roofs can be relatively cost-effective to build compared to other complex roof designs.
The simple symmetrical structure requires fewer materials than some alternative styles while still providing significant space benefits. This makes the gambrel roof design an economical choice for many homeowners who want both style and function.
#4 Work Well On Many Architectural Styles
Gambrel roofs work well with various architectural styles and building types. You can incorporate them into homes, barns, garages, and sheds.
This makes them a good option whether you’re installing a new roof or considering a replacement for an existing one.
Cons
#1 Wind Vulnerability
The shape of gambrel roofs creates a larger surface area than some other roof styles, which can make them more vulnerable to high winds.
In areas with frequent strong winds or storms, this could result in damage if the roof is not correctly constructed and maintained. Special attention should be paid during installation to secure the roof properly.
#2 Snow Load Concerns
In regions with heavy snowfall, the upper portion of a gambrel roof may accumulate snow because of its gentler slope. This accumulation can place extra weight and stress on the roof structure.
You should ensure your gambrel roof is designed to handle the snow loads in your area to prevent structural issues.
#3 More Complex Installation
Installing a gambrel roof requires more expertise than simpler roof styles like gable roofs. The transition between the two slopes must be constructed carefully to prevent leaks and ensure structural integrity.
Because of this complexity, you may also face higher labor costs for installation and repairs compared to simpler roof styles.
#4 Potential Ventilation Challenges
Without proper ventilation, heat and moisture can build up in gambrel-style roofs. Ventilation is important in all roofing styles and without it, you could end up with problems like mold growth or reduced energy efficiency.
#5 Regular Maintenance Requirements
The joints where the two slopes meet require regular inspection and maintenance to prevent water infiltration. These points can be vulnerable to leaks if not maintained.
You should plan for routine professional inspections to ensure your gambrel roof remains in good condition.
What Are The Different Types of Gambrel Roofs?
When considering a gambrel roof for your property, you should know that there are several variations to choose from.
#1 Traditional Gambrel Roof
The first type, the normal barn gambrel roof, is the most recognizable. It has the traditional two-slope design that maximizes internal space while maintaining the iconic barn appearance.
#2 Wall Supported Gambrel Roof
Wall-supported gambrel roofs have eaves that extend beyond the wall line, creating a flat soffit around the structure that provides additional protection against the elements.
#3 Dormer Gambrel Roof
Another type of gambrel roof is the dormer gambrel roof, which features windows that protrude from the lower slope, allowing natural light to enter the upper level and creating more usable interior space.
#4 Valley-Style Gambrel Roofs
Valley-style gambrel roofs feature multiple slopes that form valleys. This type is often used in larger homes to create interesting visual features while maintaining the benefits of the gambrel design.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Gambrel Roof?
The cost of installing a gambrel roof differs based on many important things that you should know before planning to install one.
Generally, you can expect to pay between $8 and $15 per square foot for a basic gambrel roof installation. For a regular 1,500-square-foot roof, it would approximately cost $12,000 to $22,500.
This price range accounts for standard materials, such as asphalt shingles. However, if you prefer premium materials like metal, slate, or cedar shakes, your costs could increase by 50% or more.
The complexity of your particular gambrel roof design also impacts the final price, with features like dormers, valleys, or custom angles adding to both material and labor expenses.
Your location affects pricing too, as labor rates vary based on where you live. Also, the structural requirements for supporting a gambrel roof may require reinforcing your existing home structure, potentially adding to the overall project cost.
For the most accurate estimate, you should consult several local roofing contractors in your area who can assess your specific situation and provide detailed quotes.
How Long Does A Gambrel Roof Last?
As we mentioned earlier when discussing the pros and cons of gambrel roofs, maintenance plays a very important role in determining the lifespan of your roof.
A well-installed gambrel roof made with high-quality materials can last between 30 and 50 years with regular care and maintenance. The actual lifespan depends significantly on the roofing materials you choose.
Asphalt shingles, the most common and affordable option, typically last 15 to 25 years on a gambrel roof.
Metal roofs, although more expensive initially, can last for up to 40 to 70 years and provide excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. Cedar shakes provide a beautiful natural appearance but require more maintenance and generally last 20 to 35 years, depending on your climate.
The overall lifespan of your gambrel roof also depends on installation by experienced professionals who understand the different challenges of this roof style.
Regular inspections are also very important, particularly at the joints where the two slopes meet, as these areas are most vulnerable to leaks. You should schedule professional roof inspections at least once a year and after major storms to catch and address small issues before they worsen into significant problems.
Climate plays an important role too. Extreme weather conditions like heavy snow loads, high winds, or intense sun exposure can shorten your roof’s life expectancy if not properly accounted for in the design and material choice.
Get Professional Roof Installation In Wisconsin
At BRH Enterprises LLC, we are your local roofers. We are committed to providing professional roof installations in Mayville and the nearby areas of Wisconsin.
Our team has the right experience to install a gambrel roof, and we will make sure that your new roof not only looks beautiful but also performs well for years to come.
When you work with us, you can expect personalized service from the initial consultation through the completed installation. We take the time to understand your specific needs, preferences, and budget considerations before recommending the best solutions for your home.
We use only premium materials from trusted manufacturers, offering various options to match your home’s style and your personal preferences. Whether you’re building a new home, replacing an aging roof, or adding a gambrel roof to your garage or shed, our team has the knowledge and skills to complete your project.
To discuss your project with our experts, feel free to call us today at (920) 249-4228.
