A gable is a triangular portion of a wall between the edges of intersecting roof pitches. It is the A-shaped section of wall between two intersecting sloping sides, which can be the same size or different sizes depending on the property. The shape of the gable and how it is detailed depends on the structural system used, which reflects climate, material availability, and aesthetic concerns. The term gable wall or gable end more commonly refers to the entire wall, including the gable and the wall below it. Some types of roof do not have a gable (for example, hip roofs do not) .
Gable roofs are among the most popular roof styles in the U.S. and have a familiar shape with sloping sides that form a triangle at the top known as a gable. Depending on their size and style, homes can include more than one gable. While a simple peaked roof with a triangular gable is what most people visualize when thinking of a gable roof, there are some variations that can be adapted to many home styles.
Gable roofs are so popular that they can be found on homes of nearly every style. The configuration of the roof will vary according to the architecture of the home. Residential styles that frequently have a gable roof include A-Frame, Swiss chalets, Queen Anne, and Victorian-style houses.
In addition to providing an elegant appearance, gable roofs offer several benefits. They are low cost, easy to construct, and offer exceptional water drainage qualities. The pitched shape of gable roofs means they offer the most space for an attic or vaulted ceilings, which can improve ventilation within the property. The additional space can also improve overall energy efficiency via solar panel technology and insulation.
In summary, a gable is a triangular portion of a wall between the edges of intersecting roof pitches, and it is a popular roof style in the U.S. due to its low cost, simple design, and exceptional water drainage qualities.
