Learn the key differences between these two popular roof designs.
Learn the differences between gable and hip roofs before you build or undertake a majorhome remodel.
Major Differences Between Hip Roofs and Gable Roofs
What Is a Hip Roof?
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On a hip roof, sloping sides form the entire roof, meaning there are no vertical wall extensions.
This, paired with the aerodynamics of the sleek, hipped design, translates to superior wind resistance.
This is one of the key differences between hip roofs vs gable roofs.
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Here are some notable disadvantages:
What Is a Gable Roof?
A gable roof has two parallel sloping sides that meet at the center to form a peak.
Two open triangular-shaped spaces remain on each end.
These spaces are often filled in with vertical extensions of the walls below them.
Types of Gable Roofs
Gable roofs come in many different styles.
Hip roofs are too low to build habitable space, though they do provide ample space for storage.
Which Is Better: Gable Roof or Hip Roof?
Converting a gable roof to a hip roof is an expensive, major project.
Though rare, it can be done.
Designing Wind-Resistant Roofs.Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Hip Roof vs Gable Roof.
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
South Carolina Department of Insurance.
Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings.
Federal Emergency Management Agency.