Because there’s no set shape to a conservatory, they can take many forms, for example hip, flat or gable. Conservatory roofĬonservatory roofs fall into three categories: glazed, opaque and combination. However, with skylights or dormer windows, the top floor can still be light, airy and spacious. They are often used to create an extra floor, although it will only be half the size of the floor(s) below because the roof will be lower on one side.
Saltbox roofĪ saltbox roof is similar to a gable, but the two roof faces are different sizes, with one wall higher than the opposite, plus two gable ends with irregular shapes. Viewed from above, the house will have an X, T or L shape. Crossed gableĪ crossed gable roof is where two or more separate gable roofs project at 90 degrees from the main body of the house. It will usually project outwards at the gable ends by a small amount, and the ends will probably be boarded or tiled rather than brick. With box gable roofs, the main structure of the house consists of four rectangular walls, and the roof sits on top as a separate architectural part.
With open gables, the walls at the gable ends visibly reach the peak of the roof in a triangular form. Gable roofs also have larger loft spaces than hip roofs (see below), which is another added benefit. Because the triangle is the most stable shape in engineering, the gable forms a strong roof, making it one of the most popular choices for British homes. Think Monopoly houses and you’ll get the idea. This means the vertical walls on two opposite sides reach all the way to the apex of the roof, but on the other two sides they only reach the gutter. It consists of two equally sized sloping roof faces that meet at the top ridge in the middle on a rectangular house. The gable roof is the most basic type of sloping roof. Well that’s about to change – we’ll make a roof-spotter of you yet! Gable Roof The strange thing is, even though they’re fundamental structural elements, with functional as well as aesthetic purposes, most of us probably don’t pay too much attention to them, even when we’re home-seeking. Do you know your box gable from your open gable? Your bonnet from your gambrel? If you have no idea what we’re talking about, these are just some of the different types of roofs that sit atop the nation’s homes.