An Overview of Shed Roofs
If you’re planning to design and build
your own garden shed, there are a number of
shed
roofs to choose from. The roof shape you choose will
be an important factor in determining the look of
your garden shed, and its storage capacity, so it’s
worth taking the time to look at your options.
Note that the term ‘shed roof’ is an
architectural term for a simple, sloping roof shape
often used for porches, or contemporary style homes.
Of course, if you’re building a garden shed, you can
choose to build the roof in any shape you choose.
Common Roof Shapes for
Garden Sheds:
Gable
A gable is the classic style of roof, which has two
sloping sides meeting in the middle in a ridge. Gable
roofs are the most common type of roof for sheds, and
the easiest to build.
Gambrel
Think of a barn roof, and you’ll be picturing a
gambrel style roof. A gambrel is similar to a standard
gable roof, but each side has two panels with a break
in between. The panel at the top has a steeper angle.
Gambrel roofs have a wonderful country barn look, and
they create extra storage space in the top of the
shed.
Salt Box
A salt box roof is also similar to a gable roof,
but one side of the roof is short and steep, while the
other is longer and flatter. This gives you more
headroom and storage space on one side. The name comes
from the shape of boxes used to store salt in colonial
times.
Hipped
A hipped roof is more complex, and best suited to
larger sheds. All four sides of the roof slope
inwards, either meeting at a point as in a pyramid, or
along a ridge. A hipped roof gives the shed a
cottage-style look.
For more information on different styles of sheds,
please read this article on
building your barn
style sheds.
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