Rafters perform a number of significant roofing functions. They set the configuration of the future roof, absorb atmospheric loads, and hold the material. Among the rafter's responsibilities is the formation of smooth planes for laying the covering and providing space for the components of the roofing pie.

In order for such a valuable part of the roof to flawlessly cope with the listed tasks, information is needed about the rules and principles of its design. The information is also useful for those who are constructing the rafter system gable roof with their own hands, and for those who decide to resort to the services of a hired team of builders.

In the construction of the rafter frame for pitched roofs, wooden and metal beams. The starting material for the first option is a board, log, timber.

The second is constructed from rolled metal: channel, profile pipe, I-beam, angle. There are combined structures with the most heavily loaded steel parts and wood elements in less critical areas.

In addition to its “iron” strength, metal has many disadvantages. These include thermal qualities that are unsatisfactory to the owners of residential buildings. Frustrating need to apply welded joints. Most often, industrial buildings are equipped with steel rafters, and less often, private cabins assembled from metal modules.

In the matter of independent construction of rafter structures for private houses, wood is a priority. It is not difficult to work with, it is lighter, “warmer”, and more attractive in terms of environmental criteria. In addition, to perform nodal connections you will not need welding machine and welding skills.

Rafters - a fundamental element

The main “player” of the frame for constructing a roof is the rafter, which among roofers is called a rafter leg. Beams, braces, headstocks, purlins, ties, even a Mauerlat may or may not be used depending on the architectural complexity and dimensions of the roof.

Rafters used in the construction of gable roof frames are divided into:

• Layered rafter legs, both heels of which have reliable structural supports under them. The lower edge of the layered rafter rests against the mauerlat or the ceiling crown of the log house. The support for the upper edge can be a mirror analogue of the adjacent rafter or a purlin, which is a beam laid horizontally under the ridge. In the first case, the rafter system is called a spacer system, in the second it is called a non-spacer system.
• Hanging rafters, the top of which rests against each other, and the bottom is based on an additional beam - a tie. The latter connects the two lower heels of adjacent rafter legs, the result is a triangular module called a truss. Tightening dampens the tensile processes, so that only vertically directed load acts on the walls. Although a structure with hanging rafters is braced, the bracing itself does not transmit to the walls.

In accordance with the technological specifics of rafter legs, the structures constructed from them are divided into layered and hanging. For stability, the structures are equipped with struts and additional racks.

To support the top of the layered rafters, planks and purlins are installed. In reality, the rafter structure is much more complex than the elementary templates described.

Note that the formation of the frame of a gable roof can generally be done without a rafter structure. In such situations, the supposed planes of the slopes are formed by slabs - beams laid directly on the load-bearing gables.

However, what interests us now is specifically the structure of the rafter system of a gable roof, and it can involve either hanging or layered rafters, or a combination of both types.

Subtleties of fastening rafter legs

The rafter system is fastened to brick, foam concrete, aerated concrete walls through a Mauerlat, which in turn is fixed with anchors.

Between the Mauerlat, which is a wooden frame, and the walls made of the specified materials, a waterproofing layer made of roofing felt, waterproofing material, etc. is required.

The top of brick walls is sometimes specially laid out so that along the outer perimeter there is something like a low parapet. This is so that the mauerlat placed inside the parapet and the walls do not push apart the rafter legs.

The rafters of the roof frame of wooden houses rest on upper crown either on ceiling beams. The connection in all cases is made by notches and is duplicated with nails, bolts, metal or wooden plates.

How to do without mind-boggling calculations?

It is highly desirable that the cross-section and linear dimensions of wooden beams be determined by the project. The designer will provide clear calculation justifications geometric parameters boards or timber, taking into account the entire range of loads and weather conditions. If the home craftsman does not have a design development at his disposal, his path lies on the construction site of a house with a similar roofing structure.

You don’t have to pay attention to the number of floors of the building being constructed. It’s easier and more correct to find out the required dimensions from a foreman than to find out them from the owners of a shaky self-construction. After all, in the hands of the foreman is documentation with a clear calculation of the loads per 1 m² of roof in a specific region.

The installation step of the rafters determines the type and weight roofing. The heavier it is, the smaller the distance between the rafter legs should be. For laying clay tiles, e.g. optimal distance between the rafters there will be 0.6-0.7 m, and for corrugated sheets 1.5-2.0 m is acceptable.

However, even if the pitch required for proper installation of the roof is exceeded, there is a way out. This is a reinforcing counter-lattice device. True, it will increase both the weight of the roof and the construction budget. Therefore, it is better to understand the pitch of the rafters before constructing the rafter system.

Craftsmen calculate the pitch of the rafters according to the design features of the building, simply dividing the length of the slope by equal distances. For insulated roofs, the pitch between the rafters is selected based on the width of the insulation slabs.

You can find it on our website, which may also help you a lot during construction.

Rafter structures of layered type

Layered rafter structures are much simpler to construct than their hanging counterparts. A reasonable advantage of the layered scheme is to ensure adequate ventilation, which is directly related to long-term service.

Distinctive design features:

• It is mandatory to have support under the ridge heel of the rafter leg. The role of support can be played by the run - wooden beam, resting on racks or on the internal wall of the building, or the upper end of an adjacent rafter.
• Using a Mauerlat to erect a truss structure on walls made of brick or artificial stone.
• The use of additional purlins and racks where the rafter legs, due to the large size of the roof, require additional support points.

The disadvantage of the scheme is the presence of structural elements that affect the layout of the internal space of the attic in use.

If the attic is cold and organization is not expected in it useful premises, then the layered structure of the rafter system for installing a gable roof should be given preference.

Typical sequence of work for the construction of a layered truss structure:

• First of all, we measure the heights of the building, the diagonals and horizontality of the upper cut of the frame. When identifying vertical deviations of brick and concrete walls, we remove them with a cement-sand screed. Exceeding the heights of the log house is cut off. By placing wood chips under the mauerlat, vertical flaws can be combated if their size is insignificant.
• The floor surface for laying the bed must also be leveled. It, the Mauerlat and the girder must be clearly horizontal, but the location of the listed elements in the same plane is not necessary.
• We process everything wooden parts structures before installation with fire retardants and antiseptics.
• We lay waterproofing on concrete and brick walls for installation of the Mauerlat.
• We lay the mauerlat beam on the walls and measure its diagonals. If necessary, we slightly move the bars and turn the corners, trying to achieve the ideal geometry. Align the frame horizontally if necessary.
• We mount the Mauerlat frame. The beams are joined into a single frame using oblique notches; the joints are duplicated with bolts.
• We fix the position of the Mauerlat. Fastening is done either with staples to wooden plugs installed in advance in the wall, or with anchor bolts.
• Mark the position of the prone position. Its axis should retreat from the mauerlat bars at equal distances on each side. If the run will rest only on posts without supports, we carry out the marking procedure only for these posts.
• We install the bed on a two-layer waterproofing. We attach it to the base with anchor bolts, and connect it to the inner wall with wire twists or staples.
• We mark the installation points of the rafter legs.
• We cut out the racks to uniform sizes, because... Our bed is exposed to the horizon. The height of the racks should take into account the cross-sectional dimensions of the purlin and beam.
• We install racks. If provided by the design, we secure them with spacers.
• We lay the purlin on the racks. We check the geometry again, then install brackets, metal plates, and wooden mounting plates.
• Installing a trial rafter board, mark the cutting places on it. If the Mauerlat is set strictly to the horizon, there is no need to adjust the rafters on the roof after the fact. The first board can be used as a template for making the rest.
• We mark the installation points of the rafters. For marking, folk craftsmen usually prepare a pair of slats, the length of which is equal to the clearance between the rafters.
• According to the markings, we install the rafter legs and fasten them first at the bottom to the mauerlat, then at the top to the purlin to each other. Every second rafter is screwed to the Mauerlat with a wire bundle. In wooden houses, the rafters are screwed to the second crown from the top row.

If the rafter system is made flawlessly, the layer boards are installed in any order.

If there is no confidence in the ideal structure, then the outer pairs of rafters are installed first. A control string or fishing line is stretched between them, according to which the position of the newly installed rafters is adjusted.

The installation of the rafter structure is completed by installing fillets, if the length of the rafter legs does not allow forming an overhang of the required length. By the way, for wooden buildings the overhang should extend beyond the contour of the building by 50 cm. If you plan to organize a canopy, separate mini-rafters are installed under it.

Another useful video about building a gable rafter base with your own hands:

Hanging rafter systems

The hanging variety of rafter systems is a triangle. The two upper sides of the triangle are folded by a pair of rafters, and the base is the tie connecting the lower heels.

The use of tightening allows you to neutralize the effect of the thrust, therefore, only the weight of the sheathing, roof, plus, depending on the season, the weight of precipitation, acts on walls with hanging rafter structures.

Specifics of hanging rafter systems

Characteristic features of hanging type rafter structures:

• The obligatory presence of a tie, most often made of wood, less often of metal.
• Possibility to refuse to use the Mauerlat. A timber frame can be successfully replaced by a board laid on double-layer waterproofing.
• Installation of ready-made closed triangles – trusses – on the walls.

The advantages of the hanging scheme include the space under the roof free from racks, which allows you to organize an attic without pillars and partitions. There are disadvantages.

The first of them is restrictions on the steepness of the slopes: their slope angle can be at least 1/6 of the span of a triangular truss; steeper roofs are strongly recommended. The second disadvantage is the need for detailed calculations for the proper installation of cornice units.

Among other things, the angle of the truss will have to be installed with pinpoint precision, because the axes of the connected components of the hanging rafter system must intersect at a point, the projection of which must fall on the central axis of the Mauerlat or the lining board replacing it.

Subtleties of long-span hanging systems

The tie is the longest element of a hanging rafter structure. Over time, as is typical for all lumber, it becomes deformed and sags under the influence of its own weight.

Owners of houses with spans of 3-5 meters are not too concerned about this circumstance, but owners of buildings with spans of 6 meters or more should think about installing additional parts that exclude geometric changes in tightening.

To prevent sagging in the installation diagram of a rafter system for a long-span gable roof, there is a very significant component. This is a pendant called a grandmother.

Most often it is a block attached with wooden pegs to the top of the truss. The headstock should not be confused with the racks, because its lower part should not come into contact with the puff at all. And the installation of racks as supports in hanging systems is not used.

The bottom line is that the headstock hangs, as it were, on the ridge assembly, and a tightening is attached to it using bolts or nailed wooden plates. To correct sagging tightening, threaded or collet-type clamps are used.

The tightening position can be adjusted in the area of ​​the ridge assembly, and the headstock can be rigidly connected to it by a notch. Instead of a bar in non-residential attics, reinforcement can be used to make the described tension element. It is also recommended to install a headstock or hanger where the tie is assembled from two beams to support the connection area.

In an improved hanging system of this type, the headstock is complemented by strut beams. The stress forces in the resulting rhombus are extinguished spontaneously due to the correct arrangement of vector loads acting on the system.

As a result, the rafter system is stable with minor and not too expensive modernization.

Hanging type for attics

In order to increase the usable space, the tightening of the rafter triangles for the attic is moved closer to the ridge. A completely reasonable move has additional advantages: it allows you to use the puffs as a basis for lining the ceiling.

It is connected to the rafters by cutting with a half-pan and duplicating with a bolt. It is protected from sagging by installing a short headstock.

A noticeable disadvantage of the hanging attic structure is the need for accurate calculations. It is too difficult to calculate it yourself; it is better to use a ready-made project.

Which design is more cost effective?

Cost is an important argument for an independent builder. Naturally, the price of construction for both types of rafter systems cannot be the same, because:

• In the construction of a layered structure, a board or beam of small cross-section is used to make rafter legs. Because layered rafters have two reliable supports underneath them; the requirements for their power are lower than in the hanging version.
• In the construction of a hanging structure, the rafters are made of thick timber. To make a tightening, a material with a similar cross-section is required. Even taking into account the abandonment of the Mauerlat, the consumption will be significantly higher.

It will not be possible to save on the grade of material. For the load-bearing elements of both systems: rafters, purlins, beams, mauerlat, headstocks, racks, 2nd grade lumber is needed.

For crossbars and tensile ties, grade 1 will be required. In the manufacture of less critical wooden overlays, grade 3 can be used. Without counting, we can say that in the construction of hanging systems, expensive material is used in greater quantities.

Hanging trusses are assembled in an open area next to the facility, then transported to assembled form up. To lift weighty triangular arches from timber, you will need equipment, the rental of which will have to be paid. And the project for complex nodes of the hanging version is also worth something.

Video instruction on the installation of a hanging category truss structure:

There are actually many more methods for constructing rafter systems for roofs with two slopes.

We have described only the basic varieties, which in reality are applicable for small country houses and buildings without architectural tricks. However, the information presented is enough to cope with the construction of a simple truss structure.

A gable roof is a popular roofing option for residential buildings. The design of such a structure can be various types, but each option has certain features.

Features of a gable roof device

A gable roof has two planes of slopes, which can have equal or different areas. Depending on this, the type of roof is determined, but in any case, a gable roof is the simplest of the options in demand in the construction of private houses.

Gable roofs are beautiful and practical to use

The design of a gable roof includes a set of elements that ensure the reliability and protection of the building. When constructing such a roof, the following details must be present:

• rafters, consisting of rafter legs, vertical posts and inclined struts;
• Mauerlat, which is a row of timber that serves to connect the walls and roof;
• ridge - formed by connecting rafter legs and represents the topmost edge of the roof;
• fillies - are additional elements that lengthen the rafter legs;
• a bench in the form of a horizontal bar, needed to distribute the load;
• roof overhang, which protects the walls of the building from moisture, preventing drips;
• sheathing - required for installation of insulation, roofing material, vapor and waterproofing.

The design of a gable roof is simple and not very heavy.

Each main roof element performs a specific function. For example, the rafter system is the basis for external roofing material, insulation, hydro- and vapor barrier. The rafters create the shape of the roof, and the gable roof is presented in the form of a triangle. Vertical posts, screeds, purlins and other details complement the rafter system and make it reliable. The basis of all this is the Mauerlat, which serves to connect the roof to the walls of the building.

Types of gable roofs

The planes of a gable roof are connected at an angle, forming a triangle. Depending on the fixation angle, you get different options roofs. Each type of gable roof is characterized by certain features, for example, the shape and size of the slopes.

The classic gable roof allows you to create an attic in the attic

Symmetrical or simple gable roof

The classic version of a gable roof is a symmetrical structure, the slopes of which have the same area and length. The angle of connection of the planes can be different. For example, steep slopes allow you to create an attic in the attic. In this case, the slope angle is 35–40 degrees.

In a symmetrical design, the slopes have the same area

A symmetrical roof has the shape of an isosceles triangle, and the length of the base can be different. The construction of such a structure requires the presence of all the main elements of the rafter system. In this case, the weight of the roof is evenly distributed over two walls, which serve as direct support for the slopes.

Roof of asymmetrical simple shape

An asymmetrical roof has two slopes of different sizes. Thus, the top rib is shifted from the middle to one side. As a result, a roof is formed in the shape of a triangle with unequal sides.

Designing an asymmetrical roof requires accurate calculation of the load on the walls

The roof with unequal sides looks modern and is suitable for various styles design, for example, modern. The attic space under such a roof is smaller in size than with a symmetrical design. Design involves a strict and accurate calculation of the load on the walls, since one side of the roof carries a greater load than the other.

Gable sloping roof structure

Broken design with internal or outer corner kink is the most difficult option. Independent construction of such a roof is extremely difficult and requires professional calculation of all parameters. This is due to the fact that when designing a sloping roof, it is important to determine the bend angle, load, and parameters of the rafter system at the point of curvature.

The broken-shaped roof looks impressive and is suitable for wooden or brick houses

A roof with an internal or external fracture needs not only accurate calculation slope of the slopes, but also proper operation. In winter, large volumes of snow can accumulate on the upper slopes, which should be removed in a timely manner. A broken roof allows you to create a spacious attic space, which is especially important when there is an external break in the surface. In this case, the height of the attic ceiling is quite comfortable.

Photo gallery: options for gable roofs

A symmetrical gable roof has a laconic appearance A symmetrical roof is optimal for a brick building A hip roof has a design similar to a gable roof The asymmetrical shape of the roof makes the building original A simple gable roof is suitable for houses made of any materials An asymmetrical roof does not require special maintenance Installation of the roofing material is carried out after the rafters are fully attached

During the design process, a sectional drawing of the roof structure is created. This allows you to display all the features of the structure, indicate the internal elements and their dimensions.

The scheme greatly simplifies construction

A detailed drawing greatly simplifies construction and allows you to take into account all the features of the structure. The cross-sectional design of the roof assumes a clear outline, displaying both external and internal elements.

Advantages and disadvantages of gable roofs

Symmetrical gable roofs are simple, practical and convenient. Comparing such structures with other options allows us to determine the pros and cons of gable structures. For example, hip or hipped roofs allow you to get a spacious attic space than two symmetrical inclined planes. At the same time, designing multi-slope options is more labor-intensive than creating a simple symmetrical structure.

The more slopes, the more complex the design

If we compare gable roofs with other types of roofs, we can highlight the following main advantages:

• simple design and construction;
• easy care, rapid precipitation;
• quick installation of roofing;
• minimum number of joints, edges and connections;

A roof with two slopes allows you to create a fairly spacious attic space, but the ceiling height in the attic is small in the area of ​​the slopes. Therefore, to create a comfortable living space, they often build hip roof. And also a gable structure requires correct calculation of the load on the two main walls on which the inclined surfaces rest. This allows you to avoid skewing of the symmetrical type of roof.

Features of structural elements

Gable roof does not require the creation of particularly complex foundation systems and other elements. To build a reliable and durable roof, it is enough to take into account the features of the main components of the rafter and mauerlat system. The first component of the roof includes a set of elements that ensure the strength of the structure. The Mauerlat is the base of the roof, to which the rafters are attached, resting on the walls.

The project includes drawings that show the connection features of important elements

Rafter system options

Rafter systems can be suspended or layered. The main difference between these types is the method of attaching the rafters to the Mauerlat, as well as other features. The hanging rafters of the roof with two slopes rest on the side walls, creating a bursting force. As a result of this, the supporting walls are subjected to increased load, and to eliminate the negative impact, the rafter legs are connected with a special tightening. This reduces the load on load-bearing walls.

The diagram shows the main elements hanging rafters, which are necessarily constructed during the construction of the roof

An additional tie on top helps ensure the strength of the hanging system. In this case, a distance of 50 cm from the edge or ridge of the gable roof is maintained. Hanging systems are optimal when the distance between external load-bearing walls is no more than 10 m. In this case, there should be no internal load-bearing wall. Thus, hanging structures will be reliable and will protect your home.

The design of hanging rafters is simple, but calculation of the load on the walls is necessary

The layered version of the rafters is created when there is another load-bearing wall between the outer walls. In this case, there is a support beam that transfers the weight of the roof to the supporting structures. Instead of an internal wall, there may be columns. In this case, different types of rafters are alternated, that is, layered elements are supported on the columns, and hanging elements are mounted between the load-bearing elements.

The drawing allows you to determine the features of rafters for different buildings

The layered rafters are supported by a ridge beam and a mauerlat. In this case, the load is distributed not only on these elements, but also on the internal supporting structures.

Main stages of installation

Before installing the roof, drawings are prepared and project documentation which are used in construction. The drawings indicate the dimensions of the main elements, the type of their connection and other important points. Next, a set of works is carried out, which includes the following main stages:

1. Construction of the Mauerlat on brick walls. If the walls are made of timber, then the role of the Mauerlat is played by the upper crown, securely fixed. At this stage, the roof base is waterproofed.
2. When installing hanging rafters, they are assembled in advance, and then the outer elements are installed and only after that the intermediate ones are attached. The rafter elements are fixed with jibs, which are removed after installation.
3. After attaching the rafter legs, fix the fillies, tie-downs and other components of the system.
4. Installation of the sheathing is carried out after the rafters are completely assembled. Next, hydro- and vapor barriers, insulation, and external roofing are installed.

Video: simple do-it-yourself gable roof

A gable roof is practical and can be quite impressive in shape, but its creation requires accurate calculation loads. The durability and quality of the roof, which protects the building from climatic influences, depends on this.

Are you just about to build your house and are looking for an unusual and energy-saving project? Then it’s time for you to think about a pitched roof, which is also called asymmetrical or asymmetrical. This differs from a regular roof in that its two slopes have different lengths or angles of inclination.

Most often, a gable roof with different slopes is implemented when it is necessary to create a single complex from a house and an extension, although recently the classical canons of roof construction have begun to be forgotten and about ordinary architectural tasks. Want to know why? This is interesting!

American architect Frank Lloyd once said: “Great architecture is a testament to the greatness of humanity.” Indeed, the evolution of the roof from ancient times to today is amazing. What architects of different times have not done with the roof of a residential building!

And what forms they created. Although the architecture of the last century is especially surprising in its diversity, where in the pursuit of unusualness, originality and craziness of ideas, simple residential buildings in projects and implementations turned into real space objects.

Sometimes the embodiment of the designer’s wild imagination did not have a single, more or less recognizable architectural element- there is no roof, no walls in their classical sense... And at the turn of the century, the fashion for such buildings sharply declined - most likely due to the irrationality of the design solutions themselves.

But humanity has derived a lot of benefit from this: for example, with a light heart it moved away from the constant classics of roof construction, taking note of new rational ideas. As a result, they began to build truly beautiful, albeit unusual, roofs of private houses. For example:

• placing one slope to the south;
• the second at a different angle, or longer, to the north;
• correctly calculating all loads from wind and snow;
• wisely organizing interior space Houses,

Such a builder achieves much more efficiency from his creation than if he built an ordinary two-story house under a gable roof. Those. all the disadvantages were reclassified as advantages, and the originality remained at its best:

As modern architects have calculated, installing just one angle above 45 degrees significantly reduces the unused area of ​​the house. And this is worth a lot.

You might be surprised, but the asymmetrical roof is actually not that new. Even the ancient builders did not have modern computer programs and precise measuring instruments in their arsenal, as well as sufficient knowledge of stereometry. Therefore, they did not think too long about how perfectly level the roof still needed to be.

As the main measuring tool they used a long slingshot, and tied a cord and a plumb line to its ends. The slingshot was raised so that the plumb line pointed exactly to the middle end wall buildings. Next, the ends of the cord were stretched to the corners of the house. If necessary, the slingshot was raised higher or, conversely, lowered lower. Once the overhang was chosen, a special board was nailed to the wall of the house. The cord was attached to these bundles. This created a clear visual boundary for the future roof slopes.

Difficulties arose precisely with the second roof slope. The fact is that it was difficult to place the second board at the same height as the first because for a long time in Russia houses were built from round timber. It is almost impossible to distribute such walls in one plane to the horizon. Therefore, transferring the size of one board to the second was hopeless.

For more accurate measurements, a water level was already needed. Only with the help of this tool is the horizon of the future roof relatively flat, and the ridge is placed in the center. But in most cases, especially when construction took place in remote rural areas, the local residents were not spoiled with such tools, and therefore almost everything was done by eye. And yes, the slopes of the roofs were often really different.

What’s even more interesting is that a truly asymmetrical pitched roof was also found in Ancient Rus' as a separate specific type of architecture. Mostly these could be seen in wooden houses and palaces that belonged to rich people. Then it was with the help of architecture that the significance of the wealth of the owners of such buildings was conveyed:

Therefore, local architects of that time looked for every way to make the same tower different from a simple hut. Here it was already customary to cover each log house with a separate roof, even if the buildings were built by each other.

Each slope was directed and wrapped in a special way, using a variety of possible endings. Moreover, the log houses themselves were built at different heights, which is why the roofs were often noticeably lopsided.

But we note that the often encountered multi-slope roof, in which the slopes do not meet in one ridge at the top, cannot be called gable. These are rather two separate pitched roofs, which are built separately and each according to its own rules.

Advantages and disadvantages of pitched roofs

What is so good about an asymmetrical roof that for the sake of its benefits many are willing to risk both the strength of the house and the durability of the roof over their own heads? Let's list them.

Uniqueness and design

The asymmetrical roof always looks stylish in any location. In our country, after so many centuries of constant construction of gable gables, any such projects are already striking, causing surprise and leaving an indelible impression.

Moreover, if you want to create a completely unique house architecture, then the easiest way to realize your crazy idea is with the help of such a solution as different slopes.

Advantageous architecture

Note that working with an asymmetrical gable roof is more pleasant and interesting for any architect. After all, now he does not need to first draw the contours of the house - a typical rectangle, and only then fit everything that he and his customer planned there. Now there are no frames: first you design the interior space of the house, make it the way you want, and the shape your imagination tells you.

Now you can place a garage, a veranda, or any gazebo near your house, and you won’t have to worry about building it all on more than one foundation and attaching different roofs. Now, once your project is ready on paper, you simply draw the roof on top so that it covers everything.

And many more valuable advantages:

Most often, an asymmetric roof is built when the second floor of the house is planned to be incomplete. For example, the area of ​​the first floor is 120 square meters, and the second is only 60. In this case, the roof covers only two or three rooms on the upper floor, and the rest of the space remains open.

What is good about such construction, and what is attractive about such a project? First of all, the pressure on the foundation of such a house is much less than that of a full-fledged two-story building. And at the same time, the foundation itself no longer needs to be built too wide, designed for extra square meters.

Often an asymmetrical roof is also used to install any necessary equipment, for example, solar panels.

Resisting the Elements

A pitched roof is good because this design solves problems with strong winds and snowfalls. The fact is that if in a certain area almost the same direction of winds prevails, then it makes sense to build a pitched roof so that on the windy side it has a flatter slope, and on the quieter side it has a steeper slope.

This approach solves the problem of distributing the load from wind and snow at a time, whereas it is usually difficult to decide whether to make the roof peaked, thus getting rid of tons of snowflakes, or flat so that it does not get torn off in the first storm.

A real “salvation” for the attic

The fact is that a typical attic under an ordinary gable roof is the most disadvantageous and looks unpleasant, even psychologically oppressive. It's all about the geometry of the interior: the incomprehensible dark space under the very ridge completely detracts from the impression of the attic as a living space, and the sharp slope of the slopes and sharp corners certainly do not add comfort.

Of course, modern designers are enterprising and cunning, and have already learned to use all these shortcomings to their advantage, arranging wardrobes, and organizing such space as something profitable and stylish. If you look at this ready-made design interior of such an attic, the so-called “wow effect” immediately appears and it seems that living in such an attic is a sheer pleasure.

But in fact, for the most part, all this is beautiful - only in a glossy picture, but in life such an attic, as it turns out, has too little usable area. Therefore, a gable roof with different slopes is a much more optimal solution. Especially the roof, which has a displaced ridge.

In this case, the geometry of the attic is no longer so unusual, and one of the walls may well even be vertical if you, without regret, lose some half a meter of sharp space under this slope:

Some architects even recommend building for attic houses asymmetrical roofs, namely, gable roofs with different slopes. So that the cornice is brought forward and is a separate expressive architectural device. But, note, a gable roof with different slopes in 90% of cases is actually built without an attic.

To make or not to make such a roof?

Essentially, you have two aspects on the scales:

• On the first bowl: uniqueness, design and some functional advantages.
• On the second side: the difficulty of executing such projects.

Therefore, decide for yourself what is more important to you: uniqueness or simplicity, and whether you are willing to spend many long hours making a detailed drawing, calculating every little detail and risking, in fact, the whole building if you do not have enough experience. But in order to be proud of yourself and have extra things in the house comfortable space. Let's just say: in this regard, modern developers are becoming bolder and bolder!

Types of pitched roof structures

Note that the classic gable roof is the simplest constructive solution. Let us highlight the main types of pitched roofs:

• Asymmetrical. In this roof, the slopes are connected at the ridge and are located at the same angle of inclination. But at the same time, one slope can be significantly longer than the other, due to which such a roof is perceived as original and unusual. And sometimes the difference between the slopes is not great, and in such a roof asymmetry is not visible even at first glance.
• Partially broken. Such a roof differs from a classic gable roof only in that one of its slopes has a break - to cover an extension, for example. But, despite the similarity of the design with the usual one, the calculation of loads is carried out differently.
• Asymmetrical roof. This is the most original and unusual roof; this is the kind of roof that is built when they want the room on the second floor or in the attic to be spacious, more familiar and not have dark sharp corners. In this case, one slope has a different angle of inclination and length. There are many advantages to this design, believe me.
• Asymmetrical with offset center. This roof has almost the same design as the standard one, but its ridge is now located in the center with some offset. The length of the slope and the angles of inclination of such a roof will naturally be different. As a result, such a design causes the most surprise, but also has the most valuable advantages in terms of attic space, which does not have to be modest or uncomfortable.

For example, modern houses of the Solomon project are distinguished, first of all, by the fact that they have a gable roof with different slopes. And the good thing about designing residential buildings according to the “Solomon” type is that here you can make your own changes, refine the design and architecture of the house.

Review of the most successful projects and examples of construction

As you may have guessed, if you build a gable roof with different slopes, the architect doesn’t have much choice: the same slopes, but at a different angle, slopes of different lengths, but at the same angle, their variations, and the option with an offset ridge. And each of these projects has its own advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss separately.

Different angle of inclination, but equal length of slopes

In this example, the slopes have the same length, but are located at different angles: one is higher, the other is lower. This was conceived in order to place a spacious terrace on one side of the house, and a small utility block on the other. If the entire roof were as shallow as one of its slopes, then home owners would have problems with snow accumulation. But the utility block usually does not require a high ceiling.

Note that this option is the most gentle for designing a pitched roof and it exerts almost no different pressure on the foundation. And here’s how to build a gable roof with different slope angles of equal-length slopes:

The only disadvantage of this option is the design. Believe me, it is much easier to calculate the slopes that are at the same angle of inclination, and it is much easier to attach them to the ridge.

Different lengths of slopes, but one angle of inclination

In this option, one of the slopes is slightly or significantly longer than the other. Like in this example:

Here one of the slopes is much longer than the other, thanks to which the roof covered not only the house, but nearby attached veranda. And at the same time, the long slope itself rests not only on the house, but also on the extension, thereby maintaining a balance in the load from the roof.

Here's another one good example construction of such a roof, however, the longer slope here covers not the extension, but part of the house itself:

Another project:

But in this project, the roof of the house has the same slopes on one side, and different slopes on the other:

Slopes of different shapes and lengths

But this option is more rational in terms of evenly distributing the load on the walls of the house, because thanks to the fracture there is no longer one pushing force of the rafter system:

Please note that such a roof has additional supports under the refraction. And keep in mind that any kinks are always the most problem areas roofs.

The most unusual gable roofs

Such projects of pitched roofs no longer belong to those listed above due to their non-standard nature. But these are rare:

In this project, the whole point was to create a stylish and unusual second floor room instead of a typical corner attic. Interesting idea, don't you agree? Such cut floors exert half the pressure on the foundation, and therefore much less money needs to be spent on its construction (as well as on heating the entire house). And the foundation, as you know, costs at least 30% of the cost of building the entire house.

And one more project as an example, with one broken slope:

Gable roof with offset center ridge

It’s more difficult to figure out the skate, but everything is doable:

But especially carefully it is necessary to design the load from a displaced ridge on a timber structure. After all, the walls settle quite strongly in the first year, up to 15%, and therefore it is important to prevent the entire roof from skewing later:

How to build a gable roof with different slopes

So, as you already understand, a roof with different slopes is quite complex in its structure. Why is this so? The fact is that on such a roof the ridge is rarely located in the center and, as a result, the slopes do not transfer the load evenly. That is why the architect, when working with such projects, has to carefully calculate the rafter system, and according to completely different formulas than usual.

So, for example, the central load will no longer come from the ridge itself, and therefore the subcortex will have to be placed a little to the side. But, at its core, an asymmetrical gable roof still consists of two triangles - only this time they are unequal.

But this roof geometry also has your formula. Therefore, if you want to change something in one of the triangles, changes will occur throughout the entire asymmetrical roof. Keep in mind that when building such architectural delights, you will not be able to try everything on by eye. And even more so, then you won’t make any changes.

So how can you independently calculate and build an asymmetrical gable roof? Modern ones will help you computer programs, which are able to calculate required pressure rafters onto mauerlats and the exact location of the required central support. It will be difficult to calculate all this on your own, although it is possible.

So, if we're talking about about a symmetrical roof, which simply has different lengths of slopes, then keep in mind that the slope that is longer puts more pressure on the entire rafter system and on the wall of the building. Due to the fact that it took more building material and more roofing. Usually for strong walls of a house this does not play a special role, but if you are building a frame structure or walls made of blocks, create additional support for such a slope, for example, almost at the very eaves.

Just remember that a roof with different slopes is calculated using different formulas. In fact, here you will need to make two whole calculations of two pitched roofs, which are simply connected together with one ridge.

Load distribution on slopes

What we have listed is not the only option for constructing pitched gable roofs. In fact, today architects no longer adhere to strict rules regarding such design and give free rein to their imagination. Why they are valued as specialists.

Our main task is to ensure that your home is reliably protected from precipitation and cold. And all this is achieved with the help of a well-thought-out design, and it does not necessarily have to be standard, like a hut or a mansion. Despite the fact that a pitched roof is a little far from the design of a classic gable roof, its rafter system must also be carefully calculated.

Particular attention should be paid to loads and their correct distribution on the walls of the building. After all, the most important mistake in private construction is when the roof is designed in an unusual way, and even its ability to withstand wind and snow is calculated correctly by home craftsmen, but the roof covering is not included in the load.

What does this mean? There are not yet many completed projects with pitched roofs in our country, and therefore it is difficult to track what exactly happens to such houses in 20-30 years. There is simply no such experience yet. But we can assure you that in world practice there have already been cases when the load from the roof was calculated incorrectly, and as a result the building simply collapsed over time, not to mention serious distortions. We don't want this, do we?

And this is work with drawings and computer calculations. After all, it is important to make sure that new roof remarkably withstood any loads and was stable both during heavy snowfall and during winds.

If your architect is against it

Note that today some architects are categorically against the construction of a gable roof with different slopes. This is all due to the fact that for more than one century the gable roof in Russia was almost the only form. Today, for many professionals in their field, when it comes to the roof, symmetry is the defining element.

In the roof they want to see unambiguous shapes and clear lines that come together at the top. Note that such a smart classic gable roof is also perceived as more comfortable and more familiar, which is why customers themselves often refuse unconventional projects.

But for the more advanced architects of our time modern roofs– these are, first of all, new technical solutions. They are designed to improve such indicators of private construction as reliability, durability and functionality. Therefore, today the priority in terms of roof construction is not traditions and ideal geometry, but economy of building materials, originality, which is now so lacking, and the most efficient distribution of useful living space.

Construction own home– the task is clearly not an easy one. The difficulties begin not when arranging the walls or even when laying the foundation - the most difficult thing is to choose the optimal type of structure, to design the building so that it is both functional and visually attractive enough.

One of the most noticeable elements of a building is the roof, so its design needs to be thought out in advance and in every detail. When choosing a roof type, most developers forget about the existence of gable structures with asymmetrical slopes. This article will discuss a gable roof with different slopes and its features.

Prerequisites for the appearance of asymmetrical roofs

Throughout the existence of mankind, architecture has undergone significant changes. Huge number a wide variety of designs were invented, built and redesigned - and time after time new, more and more sophisticated ones were found architectural solutions and ideas that were brought to life as far as possible, sometimes becoming unintentional masterpieces.

All this fully applies to roofing structures. The roof of residential buildings has changed incredibly over the past millennia, passing through a lot of historical eras and geographical features. IN different times this element of the building was used both to solve purely practical problems and to demonstrate the degree of freedom of creative thought.

Over time, the fashion for sophisticated solutions began to fade - perhaps precisely because creative thought began to run counter to common sense and functional purpose roofs. The knowledge gained and interesting developments did not go away, they simply began to be used more rationally and wisely.

As for gable roofs, one of the solutions that proved to be quite profitable was the following:

• One of the roof slopes was located on the south side;
• The opposite slope was located at a different angle or increased in length;
• The loads on the roof were carefully calculated, as well as the internal areas of the building.

Making such changes to the classic roof design made it possible to increase its efficiency and give it original look. An important factor is also the opportunity to more competently distribute the free internal space in the building.

Development of gable roofs with different slopes

A roof with different lengths of slopes is far from a new invention. Of course, the exact dates and periods are unknown, but it can be assumed that the very first roofing options were already asymmetrical, if only because the builders of those times simply did not have the knowledge and ability to make the structure even.

For measurements, a long spear was used with a cord and a plumb line tied to its ends. The rod was installed vertically so that the plumb line marked the center of the end wall of the future building. The edges of the cord stretched to the corners of the building. After determining the overhang, a board was nailed to the wall. The result was a completely understandable design that reflected the boundaries of the future roofing structure.

With the first ramp special difficulties did not arise, but the arrangement of the second was associated with a number of problems. If they were used to build a house round logs(and this was often the case), then leveling the walls to the same level was an almost insurmountable task, and attempts to make an even structure were also unsuccessful because of this.

For accurate measurements, a water level was required - it made it possible to level the roof so that the ridge was located in the center and the slopes were uniform. Architects and professional urban builders had access to good tools, but in villages and villages they had to build houses without accurate measurements, so the roofing often turned out to be asymmetrical.

However, unintentional asymmetry cannot be called a deliberate and time-tested development - it was achieved by accident and did not have any characteristic features. A completely different matter is the conscious creations of experienced architects, who distinguished the pitched roof as a separate architectural form. Most often, such structures were used to decorate the homes of the rich and were necessary to demonstrate the wealth of their owners.

There were many methods for arranging roofs with different slopes. A common phenomenon was structures consisting of several separate buildings with their own roofs. The ramps could be wrapped in a variety of directions and differ in all respects. Of course, these designs were not similar to modern gable asymmetrical roofs, but some similarities simply cannot be ignored.

Advantages and disadvantages of pitched roofs

The gable asymmetric roof has a lot of characteristic features. Of course, first of all it is worth considering the visual characteristics - they are the most noticeable, and even from them you can understand whether you need to use such a roof in your own home. A building with an asymmetrical roof will stand out brightly against the backdrop of classic gable structures, so all that remains is to decide on a simple question: whether you like or dislike this design.

The next aspect, which is not so noticeable at first glance, but is closely related to the unique type of pitched roofs, is the ability to use the internal space of the building to the maximum. The traditional gable roof is not so convenient in this regard, since it creates a certain framework, beyond which it is not possible to go beyond.

A gable roof with short and long slopes allows you to combine the building with any extensions and combine them under one roof. If desired, you can install not only a residential building under a pitched roof, but also a garage, gazebo or veranda. The most important thing is to draw the future structure on paper in advance and correctly design all its elements.

As a rule, a gable roof with different slope angles is installed if the second floor of the building should have a smaller area than the first. In addition to more efficient use of space, this design allows you to relieve the foundation and is excellent for installing various equipment (for example, solar panels).

Following positive quality asymmetrical roofs - the ability to withstand various natural phenomena. If in the area where the construction of the building is taking place, the wind is constantly blowing in one direction, then on the windy side it is worth placing a gentle slope, and on the opposite side there may well be a steep slope. In addition to wind resistance, this design is also well suited for snowy regions.

Another significant plus in the treasury of advantages of pitched roofs is that they are excellent for arranging a residential attic. Standard gable design lacks some advantages, in particular, the attic in it often does not look very comfortable. Of course, there are many ways to make better use of such space, at least visually, but in most cases these are just half measures.

Roof with different angles of inclination makes it possible to expand usable area second floor without additional structures. The increase in area will not be actual, but visual - but the freed-up space can be used more rationally than under two traditional slopes.

If you collect all the pros and cons gable roof with different slopes, we can come to the following conclusions:

• The asymmetrical roof has unique visual characteristics and allows for various design solutions and make more efficient use of the available space;
• The main problem is the complexity of arranging a roof with different slopes.

If the difficulties that will inevitably arise at the stage of design and installation of an asymmetrical roof are not terrible, then such a design will become great solution and will give the building a very interesting look.

Types of pitched roofs with short and long slopes

All pitched roof designs can be divided into several main categories:

1. Asymmetrical roofs. In this design, the slopes converge towards the ridge and are located at the same slope. Asymmetry is achieved due to the fact that one slope has an increased length. The increase may not be very large - the roof will still look unusual, even if the elongated slope is not striking.
2. Partially broken roofs. The main difference between this type of roof and traditional gable solutions is that one slope has a broken shape, which allows you to cover the extension. To design a pitched roof, the same calculations are required as for any pitched roof.
3. Asymmetrical roofs. This type designs is rightfully considered the most original. An asymmetrical roof is the best solution to make the attic extremely comfortable, light and spacious. Design feature This scheme consists of changing the length and slope of one of the slopes.
4. Asymmetrical roofs with offset center. At first glance, such a roof does not differ from a standard gable roof, but upon closer examination there is still a difference - the ridge line of the roof is in in this case moves relative to the center. This displacement naturally leads to a change in the length of the slope and the angle of inclination of the structure. Such roofs are very convenient to use, but their design and installation require maximum effort.

Standard designs of gable roofs with different slope angles

Building a roof with different slopes may have a lot of minor nuances, but there will be few main parameters. For example, the slopes in an asymmetrical roof may have the same length, but be located at different angles, or vice versa - the slopes installed at the same angle will have different lengths.

There are several standard design options that are worth considering in a little more detail:

1. Same length of slopes, different angle of inclination. One of the slopes in this design is located at a large angle. Such a roof allows you to arrange a nice terrace on one side, and place utility rooms under a lower slope. It would be unprofitable to make the entire roof flat - in this case, too much snow would accumulate on it. This option for an asymmetrical roof is quite simple and does not require much effort - in particular, there is no need to strengthen the foundation. True, there is still one drawback - you will have to tinker thoroughly with the design. It is much easier to design a roof with the same slope.
2. Same angle of inclination, different lengths of slopes. This design option is the complete opposite of the previous one. Increasing the length of one slope allows you to cover all extensions located near the house, such as verandas and gazebos. In this case, there are also no special requirements for the foundation, because part of the load from the roof will fall on the extension. However, in the absence of extensions or other construction nuances, you can increase the length of the slope located above the main building. In general, even such a simple scheme has considerable variability.
3. Different lengths and shapes of slopes. To optimize the loads on the rafter system of a house, a pitched roof with different lengths and shapes of slopes is often used. The main feature of this design is the presence of a fracture, due to which some of the loads are self-eliminating. True, new loads arise at the fracture site, and they have to be compensated for by additional spacers - but this is a completely reasonable price to pay for balancing the forces acting on the roof.
4. Non-standard designs. By default, pitched roofs provide the maximum degree of freedom in arrangement, so there is nothing surprising in the appearance of very interesting structures. For example, there is a scheme in which all efforts are aimed at creating an interesting second floor. If you cut off the corners of a building, you can reduce the degree of pressure on the foundation, and therefore save on construction.
5. Roof with offset ridge. Such structures are the most difficult to work with, but with the correct implementation of all stages of arrangement, you will get perhaps the most interesting roof. The main difficulty lies in accurately calculating the loads on the rafter system, especially when it comes to wooden houses - they shrink for some time, so you need to prevent the roof from skewing.

There are other drawings of a gable roof with different slopes, but the designs described above are the most common.

Installation of a gable roof with different slopes

The design of an asymmetrical roof, as can be concluded from all of the above, cannot be called simple. Even the most primitive roofs with different slopes are more difficult to install than traditional gable structures. If we talk about roofs with an offset center, then the complexity of design and installation immediately increases by an order of magnitude. The main load in asymmetrical roofs is not concentrated on the ridge, so classic vertical supports in this case do not make sense.

However, the calculation process and the perception of such a complex structure can be simplified - it is enough to imagine the roof not in the form of an asymmetrical diagram, but in the form of two triangles with different sides and corners. Of course, both triangles will be in complex interaction, so it is impossible to simply calculate them separately from each other - but such consideration of the roof structure greatly simplifies the process of its arrangement.

One of the most important structural elements that allows you to fully equip an asymmetrical roof is the Mauerlat, which takes on the entire load from the roof. Correct calculation and installation of the Mauerlat is already half the battle when it comes to a split-pitched structure.

Calculation of a roof with different slopes

In order for the roof structure to be of high quality and reliable, it must be correctly calculated. For calculations, it is best to use appropriate programs that will allow you to accurately calculate the loads on the Mauerlat and determine the location of the necessary supports. It is possible to independently calculate these parameters, but the process in this case will be too complicated - and arranging a roof with different slopes is not very simple anyway.

If we describe the calculation of a roof with different slopes in several theses, then it will all look like this:

• A slope that is longer has the greatest impact on the rafter system and the wall of the house underneath it;
• To compensate for the loads from a long slope, it is worth installing one or more additional supports;
• If the building is made of durable materials and installed on a sufficiently strong foundation, then you can do without additional elements.

The process of manually calculating an asymmetrical roof can be said this way - it will ultimately come down to determining the parameters of two pitched roofs, which are reduced to a single ridge. Taking into account the factors described above, it is possible to design the structure quite accurately.

Distribution of loads along the slopes

The design schemes described above are just the most popular types of roofs. There are many other, more sophisticated and complex forms, the implementation of which is only available to professional builders. However, you can always try, but the efficiency of the entire building will be at stake - the main purpose of arranging the roof is still protection from precipitation and frost.

In order for the roof structure to be reliable, a number of calculations are performed aimed at uniformly distributing loads along the slopes. The roof must fully rest on all the walls of the building, otherwise wind and snow loads will lead to distortions or even complete destruction of the roof structure.

In the domestic space, pitched roofs have not yet gained sufficient popularity, so it is difficult to say anything definitely about their efficiency and durability. Judging by the experience of foreign builders, asymmetric roofs are quite comparable to conventional gable structures, but only if the slopes, rafter system and loads on the building box are properly calculated.

AND last moment– if you are not sure that a gable roof with different slopes will turn out to be of high quality, it is better to refuse its arrangement. Still self-installation Such structures are quite complex and require appropriate experience. Most professional builders with such experience simply refuse to work with asymmetrical roofs, citing the difficulties that arise when installing such structures.

Conclusion

A gable roof with different slopes, despite its long history, is not only not outdated, but has also become a very modern solution. A properly designed and equipped roof can last as long as its more traditional counterparts, while demonstrating increased efficiency in terms of heat conservation and rational use of free space.

When choosing a project for a private house or country house, you have to take into account a large number of factors. A special issue is the choice of roof shape. It is both the main protection of the house and its decoration. It can have the most varied appearance and shape. There are so many of them that a person who has to deal with house building for the first time will not find it so easy to navigate.

The most popular type of roof in private construction is the gable roof. Judging even by just one name - “double-slope”, then it is not difficult to guess that it should consist of two planes-slopes. Usually, they rest on load-bearing walls of the same height. The space between the slopes, which, by the way, can be considered their distinctive feature, has a clearly defined triangle shape. Apparently, due to their external resemblance to tongs, they are also called gable. The types of gable roofs are very diverse. They vary in shape, rafter design, presence of attic space, etc.

The most popular types of gable roofs

Half-hip: advantages and disadvantages

In areas where strong winds constantly blow, as a rule, preference is given to houses with a half-hip roof - one of the types of hip roofs. A half-hip roof is basically the same as a regular gable roof, but with small overhangs on the end sides. The cut slopes from the sides have a shorter length along the slope line than the main slopes. It is due to this structure that the half-hip structure is able to withstand high wind loads. At the same time, its attic space has a convenient enough shape and size to arrange a residential or utility room there. The gables of the house are also perfectly protected from any precipitation. In addition, it gives the house a fabulous, unusual look.

Its truss structure is much more complex than that of, due to various stops, struts, sprigs, trusses, a large number of ribs, valleys, intermediate rafters and other structural elements. It requires not only competent mathematical calculations, but also competent manufacturing. Of course, it will most likely not be possible to save on materials during construction, but the walls of the house will be guaranteed to be protected from precipitation and wind.

Mansard roof: simple in design but effective

Another variety. It is formed by two gentle slopes, closed at the top, and two steep slopes, which are their continuation. This form, which allows for fuller use of attic space, is in great consumer demand today. The design of the attic roof rafter system consists of hanging rafters, which ensures the void in the middle part of the room.

Broken line is the best option for the attic

A broken roof differs from a standard gable roof by the presence of kinks on the sides, which provide high ceilings in interior spaces. It may be higher than an ordinary gable roof, which, due to its too steep slope, will not be able to withstand wind loads. Thanks to the fracture in the slope, the most vulnerable part of the roof, the upper one, which during operation takes up the wind load, receives a slight slope, while the lower one is directed very sharply downward. Compliance with the proportions of its elements is of great importance.

The most common options for gable roofs are:

• with a slope of 45° with a classic rafter system, it is used especially often in the central zone of the country; by the way, it ideal option– width 6 meters, maximum up to 8.
• gable mansard roof, the slope angle of which is 60° - the so-called pointed one. This is a fairly expensive option; it is used for houses more than 6 meters wide.
• sloping roof with an attic with two slopes having different slopes (often 30° and 60°). This is the most suitable and most economical option for houses whose width does not exceed 6 meters.

Types of gable roofs according to the purpose of the structure

Dacha cabins are an excellent option for those who dream of a large country house, but have not yet had time to build it, or for those who like to spend theirs in a small and comfortable dacha. In this case, a gable roof in combination with a porch and wooden windows will look like an ideal small, cute country house.