What gambrel roof means
A gambrel roof has two slopes on each side, a steep lower one and a shallower upper one, with gable ends. It is the classic barn roof.
Where it matters on a roofing job
The break between the two slopes needs its own flashing detail, and the steep lower slope is slow to work. Measure each plane on its own rather than from the footprint, since the pitch change throws off a simple area multiplier.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Roof measurement tool
- Licensing: Roofing license rules by state
- Tools, templates and guides: Free roofing resources