If you’re building or renovating a house, it’s highly likely that you’re thinking of gable roofs.
And we get it. The simplistic charm of its design is hard to resist! But before doing so, you’d want to take into account all the details. What are the different ways? How to tie two gable roofs together?
To answer these questions and more, here’s our guide on how to do it the right way. So, let’s begin!
How To Tie Two Gable Roofs Together?
For starters, let’s just say that gable roofs have relatively simple geometries. Sure, connecting two gable roofs leads to a more complex geometrical formation, but the good news is that the framing required for the intersection isn’t the most complicated procedure. On that note, here are some different ways to join two gable roofs together.
Parallel Additions
Parallel gable roof additions are one of the most commonly employed techniques if you’re looking to extend the roof structure in the building flow direction. Simply put, the gable roof should run parallel to the current roof design.
One of the first things that architects or contractors do is build the new roof high up on the downslope of the current roof. As the next step, you’d want the ridge of the new roof to also run parallel to the ridge of the existing one at almost the same height.
Likewise, the construction of the upslope should begin at a structurally sound spot, and the angles of the shorter and longer sides should match.
Horizontal Additions
As you may have already guessed, horizontal additions are usually preferred to add some length (instead of depth) to the existing gable roof design. The rule of thumb here is that the new gable should follow the layout of the previous roof. For connecting the two gable roofs horizontally, the ridge of the gable roof should be placed on the ridge of the addition.
Again, you’d want to ensure that the ridge of the new gable intersects the previous one at the same height. Otherwise, you’ll invariably end up with an uneven structure. Another thing to discuss with your architect or contractor is the angle of the slope from the ridge of the new roof. This should be compatible with the width of the overall construction.
Steps To Tie Two Gable Roofs Together
In the following sections, we have the various steps involved in the DIY tying of gable roofs.
Step 1
Just like any other construction or renovation, you’d want to start by planning out everything in detail. Put special emphasis on the two sections and how they should work with one another. A good way to do this is by sketching the design you have in mind and getting it checked by an architect, if possible.
Step 2
Once you’re done with the planning, it’s now time for preparation. Begin by removing the tiles from the old room, just at the location where the new roof will fit. Moreover, you may need to cut the new roof at the right angle to ensure a snug fit. It’s also important to prevent the formation of any gaps that may lead to water penetration.
Step 3
The next step is to install the new roof by nailing it through the board into the joists. This is perhaps the most crucial step in the process, so you’d want to do it very carefully. Make sure that the nails go all the way through the joists to hold the roof in place securely.
Step 4
Another step to secure the roof is by adding the rafters and covering the entire structure in plywood. Later, you can add the shingles on the plywood to create the finished look. Remember to trim the shingles at an angle to have the right fit against the original roof.
Step 5
Post-finishing, you’ll need to seal the joint between the old and new sections to weatherproof it completely. Use adequate amounts of roof sealing compound to seal the joints without leaving any gaps. Depending on the size of the roof, it may take slightly longer to accomplish this step.
Step 6
As the last step in the process, you can apply flashing to the gaps to make them waterproof and weathertight. We’d recommend checking the roof joints regularly to detect and repair any potential leaks.
Pros And Cons Of Gable Roofing
Before we wrap up this guide, we thought it’d make sense to discuss in brief the pros and cons of gable roofing:
Pros:
Cost-Effective
One of the primary reasons why gabled roofing is popular among homeowners is because it’s pretty cost-effective. Since the structure essentially comprises two roof parts joined together, you don’t require a lot of materials and tools. Plus, it’s easier to design and implement.
Better Weather Protection
The slopes on both sides of a gable allow water and other precipitation to drain away more efficiently.
More Attic Space
What we like the most about gable roofing is that it creates a practically vaulted ceiling, thereby making more room for storage and ventilation. Furthermore, you may even add a mezzanine to enhance the aesthetic appeal and usage of the space.
Cons:
Wind Risk
If you live in a particularly windy area, then a gable roof might not be your best option. Strong wind exerts a lot of pressure on the two overhangs, causing some parts of the roof to blow off. Hence, you may have to invest more for adequate structural support.
Narrow Upper Floor
Gable roofs with narrow pitch angles may lead to cramped spaces, especially if you’re planning to make it uninhabitable. We’d strongly recommend designing it with the help of 3D models to ensure proper lighting and ventilation.
Final Words
Hopefully, we have catered to the majority of your queries on how to tie two gable roofs together. Although it isn’t a very complicated construction, first-timers should definitely seek professional help for the purpose. Likewise, if you want to take on the job on your own, having professional insights will aid in perfection.
Need professional help when it comes to roofing services in Chino Hills CA? Contact us and get a quote now.