Gambrel Barn Roof Style: Features, Pros and Cons, and Important Considerations

A gambrel roof is a popular style of roof with historic charm. Commonly used in everything from quaint cottages to grand historic manors, the gambrel roof combines form and function with an appealing silhouette and an abundance of interior storage space.

Learn more about this historic roof style, its pros and cons, and what you need to know before considering a gambrel roof for your home or storage buildings.

What Is a Gambrel Roof?

A gambrel roof is a two-sided roof with symmetrical slopes on each side. Also referred to as a “Dutch roof,” gambrel roofs are popular for barn design, sheds, and other storage spaces. The lower slopes are almost vertical at approximately 60-degree angles. They’re steeper than the upper slopes, which are constructed with an approximately 30-degree angle.

The purpose of a gambrel roof is to maximize the interior space for storage, making these ideal for storage buildings like pole barns and sheds. This is due to the steep angle of the lower slope that creates more headroom below the roof line. Unlike traditional roofs that have limited attic space, the design of a gambrel roof creates a more functional area.

Types of Gambrel Roofs

Gambrel roofs are attractive, but they also offer a lot of functionality. They’re equally traditional and unique, especially when they have dormer curves, multiple roof lines, or ornamentation.

You can customize a gambrel roof from two slopes on either side to more stylish and unique designs. The types of gambrel roof styles include:

• Classic gambrel roof: Most common and traditional style for barns, sheds, and storage buildings.
• Mansard gambrel roof: Identical to classic gambrel style, but mansards have four sloped sides instead of two. The lower slopes are steeper than the upper slopes.
• Valley gambrel roofs: This style is often used on square houses and features two front-facing slopes and two sloped sides.
• Dormer gambrel roof: This style features windows on the side, dormers that allow natural light to filter in, and add depth to the exterior of the roof.

Gambrel roofs may use different materials, including asphalt shingles, wood, or slate, to suit the style of your home or building and your budget.

What Are Gambrel Roofs Used For?

Gambrel roofs are commonly chosen for barns, sheds, and storage buildings, but they may also be used for homes with distinct architectural styles like Georgian or Dutch colonial. The style is believed to have emerged in 1677 in Harvard Hall at Harvard University, starting a trend in coastal communities. Eventually, the style expanded to the whole country. However, some sources suggest that the Dutch brought the design to the U.S., leading to its popularity from the 16th to the 18th century.

Many sheds, barns, and detached garages use a gambrel roof for its functionality. The additional interior space maximizes storage with the ability to install shelves, making them ideal for increasing usable space without expanding the building’s footprint.

Pros and Cons of a Gambrel Roof

Gambrel roofs have unique features that may work for some buildings and not others. Here are the pros of gambrel roofs:

• More space from the steep sides that allow rooms, lofts, or storage areas in the upper floor.
• Classic look that lends a cozy and traditional appeal to buildings, including historic homes, quaint cottages, and detached garages or barns.
• Gable ends and dormers allow breezes to flow through the interior space, increasing ventilation.
• Steep angles that allow water and snow to slide off, preventing leaks or water damage.
• Design opportunities to customize a gambrel roof to different architectural styles and aesthetics.

There are potential drawbacks to a gambrel roof, however, including:

• Additional maintenance to keep the gutters, angles, and surfaces clean and free from snow or ice accumulation in snowy climates.
• Weight limits that may present challenges in areas with a lot of snowfall.
• Complex build and installation that may affect costs.
• Tall angles that aren’t as durable during windstorms.
• Restrictions on gambrel roofs in certain jurisdictions.

Gambrel Roof vs. Gable Roof

Gambrel roofs and gable roofs are often confused, but there is an important difference between them. Gambrel roofs are two-sided with two slopes on either side, while gable roofs have a steep slope with a classic roof shape and slopes that diverge in opposite directions.

How Much Is a Gambrel Roof?

The cost for a gambrel roof and installation can vary based on the framing materials, shingle type, roof size, the design elements, labor, your area, and the contractor you use. Based on research, the roof cost in 2025 can cost $11,000 on average, ranging from $6,000 to over $50,000.[1]

Gambrel roofs can have complex installation. The roofers must install identical trusses across the roof. The number of trusses depends on the size of the roof. Then, wood sheathing is placed on the outer face of the trusses, and the roof system is installed on top of the sheeting – including underlayment and shingles.

If you want to install a gambrel roof on your home or storage building, it’s best to speak to qualified contractors and get estimates and quotes.

Considering a Gambrel Roof?

If you’re interested in a gambrel roof for your pole barn, shed, or home, it’s important to work with an experienced roof contractor that can help you design the ideal roof for your building’s architectural style and functional needs.