Gambrel House Plans: Affordable and Functional Living

Author

Reads 870

A chinese style building with two large pots on the roof
Credit: pexels.com, A chinese style building with two large pots on the roof

Gambrel house plans are a popular choice for homeowners looking to build an affordable and functional living space. They offer a unique combination of style and practicality.

One of the key benefits of gambrel house plans is their ability to provide ample storage space. This is due in part to the design's signature steeply pitched roof, which allows for a spacious attic area that can be used for storage or additional living space.

Gambrel house plans are also known for their versatility, with many different styles and floor plans available to suit a wide range of tastes and budgets.

Design and Features

Gambrel house plans offer a unique blend of style and functionality. These plans often feature a classic Gambrel pitch, which adds a dramatic touch to the design.

The interior clear span of a Gambrel house plan can be as wide as 16′, providing ample space for various uses. You can choose to use the barn for hosting guests or even as a workshop.

Credit: youtube.com, 24x36 Gambrel Barn Timber Frame Home

One of the standout features of Gambrel house plans is the massive central cathedral, which creates a sense of openness and grandeur. This design element is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their home.

Here are some key features of Gambrel house plans:

  1. 16′ interior clear span
  2. 10′ to 25′ Clearance on the lower level
  3. 5′ 2″ to 14′ Clearance in the loft
  4. Steel plate joinery for extra strength
  5. Heavy Timber Construction and extra wide posts and beams

Barn Plan Features

A gambrel roof is a classic feature of a barn plan, and for good reason. It provides a 16′ wide clear span, giving you plenty of space to work, play, or relax.

The clear span is just the beginning, as these barn plans also offer a massive central cathedral for a dramatic effect. You can use this space to create a beautiful focal point in your barn.

One of the most appealing aspects of a gambrel roof is the extra storage space it provides. With a split loft, you can enjoy tons of space above, perfect for storing hay or hiding out after chores.

Credit: youtube.com, 15 Types of Barns and Barn Styles You Should Know

Here are some key features of a gambrel barn plan:

These features make a gambrel barn plan an attractive option for those who want a classic, old-fashioned appearance. With a gambrel roof, you can evoke that classic country image and enjoy the benefits of a spacious and versatile barn.

Interior Space

A gambrel-style roof is a game-changer when it comes to interior space. It offers a unique advantage that allows you to make the most of the space underneath the roof.

One of the main benefits is that the shallow inclines of the roof don't intrude as much on the interior space. This means you can pack in more stuff if you're using it as a storage area, or put in more furnishings if you prefer it as a living space. The result is a loft or attic space that feels open and airy.

If you want to maximize natural light and views under your roof, a gambrel-style roof is a good choice. With its steep inclines well overhead, you can let in plenty of natural light and enjoy beautiful views.

A table to help you visualize the benefits of a gambrel-style roof:

This table shows you that a gambrel-style roof can accommodate a decent number of above-ground bedrooms and bathrooms, while also providing ample space for a master suite.

Benefits and Advantages

Credit: youtube.com, Spectacular Gambrel Barn Home Perfect for Entertaining, Family Relaxation

A gambrel roofline is a great choice for your house plans, and here's why:

You can save money on materials and construction by choosing a gambrel roof, which needs fewer materials to build.

With a gambrel roof, you can redirect the money you save into other aspects of your home's design, making it a cost-effective option.

Here are some key benefits of gambrel house plans:

  • You want to save money on materials and construction for your barndo roof.

6 Benefits of Barndominiums

Barndominiums offer a unique blend of rustic charm and modern functionality. One key benefit is the affordability of these structures, which can be built for a fraction of the cost of traditional homes.

A gambrel roofline, in particular, provides additional storage space due to its steeply pitched design. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to store equipment or supplies.

With a barndominium, you can enjoy a spacious living area without breaking the bank. In fact, a barndominium can be built for as low as $30 per square foot.

Credit: youtube.com, What Are The Benefits Of Barndominiums Over Traditionally Built Homes?

The versatility of barndominiums is another major advantage. You can design and build a barndominium to suit your specific needs and style.

A gambrel roofline is also a great option for those who want to maximize their interior space. This type of roofline allows for additional storage space and a more open floor plan.

The unique design of a barndominium can also increase its resale value. In fact, a well-designed barndominium can sell for up to 20% more than a traditional home.

Cost-Effective

A cost-effective barndo roof is a great way to save some money for other design aspects. You can save money on materials and construction by choosing a gambrel roof, which requires fewer materials to build.

With a gambrel roof, you'll spend less on materials because it's a simpler design. This means you can allocate the saved funds to other areas of your barndo's design.

One of the benefits of a gambrel roof is its ease of construction, which reduces labor costs. This can be a significant advantage for homeowners on a budget.

By choosing a gambrel roof, you can save money on materials and construction, and put it towards other design elements that matter to you.

Construction and Planning

Credit: youtube.com, Gambrel Barndominium Home TOUR | Texas Best Construction

When designing a gambrel house plan, it's essential to consider the unique characteristics of this style.

The gambrel roof's steep second slope allows for more living space on the upper level, which can be a significant advantage for homeowners who want to maximize their square footage.

A typical gambrel house plan features two sets of roof slopes, with the upper slope being about one-third to one-half the size of the lower slope.

The second story of a gambrel house can be used for a variety of purposes, such as additional bedrooms, a home office, or even a hobby room.

Gambrel house plans often have a more rustic or country feel, which can be appealing to homeowners who want a charming and cozy living space.

In terms of construction, gambrel roofs can be more challenging to build than traditional gable roofs due to the multiple slopes involved.

Building a Barndo?

Building a barndo can be a great way to create a unique and functional space for your home or business. You can choose from various floor plans, including those with a gambrel roof, which can give your barndominium a classic rural flavor.

Credit: youtube.com, My Homestead Barndominium Cost - Dirt to Metal Building Kit

A gambrel roof is a great way to add character to your barndo. If you're looking to design your own gambrel barndominium, consider working with an experienced architect to ensure your plans are feasible and meet local building codes.

One popular option is a 40×60 gambrel barn plan with a split loft. This design offers a ton of space above, perfect for storing hay or creating a cozy hideout.

The benefits of a split loft are numerous. For example, you can enjoy a relaxing spot to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, surrounded by the sweet scent of hay and the sounds of nature.

If you're considering building a barn with a gambrel roof, here are some key features to look for:

  1. 16′ interior clear span
  2. 10′ to 25′ Clearance on the lower level
  3. 5′ 2″ to 14′ Clearance in the loft
  4. Classic Gambrel pitch and a massive central cathedral for a dramatic effect
  5. Steel plate joinery for extra strength
  6. Heavy Timber Construction and extra wide posts and beams

These features will give you a solid foundation for creating a functional and beautiful barndo.

Easy Construction

Constructing a gambrel roof is a relatively straightforward process. You don't need to hire a specialized contractor to do it, any regular, experienced contractor should be up to the task.

Credit: youtube.com, How To Manage A Construction Project Step By Step

The framing involved in constructing a gambrel roof is basic, making it accessible to many builders. This simplicity means you can save money on labor costs.

You just need a pair of roof beams and some gusset joints to construct a gambrel roof, which is a significant reduction in materials compared to other roof options. This is especially beneficial for builders on a budget.

Good Drainage

Good drainage is a significant advantage of gambrel roofs. The slanted shape prevents water from pooling on the top, unlike mansard or flat roofs.

This design feature reduces the likelihood of leaks, wood rot, and mold.

Specifications

A house typically has a traditional height of 31 feet, measured from the top of the finished floor on the main level to the highest peak of the roof.

The main level of a two-story home usually has a ceiling height of 9 feet.

The upper level, on the other hand, typically has a ceiling height of 8 feet.

Credit: youtube.com, How To: Reading Construction Blueprints & Plans | #1

If you prefer to avoid vaulted ceilings, your builder can make this change for you. A vaulted ceiling is typically above 10 feet at its highest point.

Here's a breakdown of the typical ceiling heights in a two-story home:

A house can have various features, such as a living room, dining room, family room, and more. The number of stories in a house can vary, with some having 3 stories.

Third Floor Plans

The third floor plans are a great way to expand your living space.

A uniquely shaped loft with windows on two walls is located at the top of the stairs to the second level.

This space is ideal for an office or a place to study.

There's another staircase in this space that leads to an optional third level.

One door off the landing opens to bedroom 2, while another opens to the master suite.

Bedroom 2 has its own full bath and windows on two walls for light and ventilation.

Log Homes

Credit: youtube.com, Top 15 Log Cabin Home Builders in the USA | 2024 Ultimate Buyer's Guide

The gambrel roof is a unique style that addresses issues with gable roofs, providing a large amount of headroom under the roof.

In contrast to gable roofs, the gambrel roof has two roof slopes, with the upper slope having a shallow angle and the lower slope having a very steep angle.

This design makes it possible to have a relatively short roof while still providing ample space under it.

The gambrel roof is traditionally efficient in the material used, requiring only two roof beams joined by horizontal members.

Gambrel roofs can be quite strong, thanks to modern design and construction methods, and can withstand high winds and heavy snowfall.

The gambrel style is very visually distinctive and may not appeal to everyone's taste.

On the first floor of a log home with a gambrel roof, you may not notice a difference from other log homes unless you're in a high-ceilinged space like a cathedral-ceiling great room.

However, on the second floor, the sloped walls formed by the roof can make arranging furniture more involved than in a room with vertical walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are three disadvantages of a gambrel roof?

A gambrel roof's open design makes it more prone to collapse, and it's not suitable for areas with heavy snow and rainfall due to buckling pressure. Additionally, its design may not provide adequate structural support in extreme weather conditions.

How much does it cost to build a gambrel roof?

The cost to build a gambrel roof typically ranges from $7,271 to $79,931, with an average cost of $21,369. Installation costs can vary depending on factors such as size, materials, and location.

What do you call a house with a gambrel roof?

A house with a gambrel roof is often referred to as a "barn-style" or "Dutch-style" house, characterized by its two-sided roof with two slopes on each side.

What is the best pitch for a gambrel roof?

A standard gambrel roof typically features a 30-degree peak and a 60-degree second slope, but angles can be customized to suit your building's needs.

Amy Martin

Senior Writer

Amy Martin is a seasoned writer with over a decade of experience in various industries. She has a passion for creativity and enjoys exploring different perspectives on life. Amy's work often inspires readers to think outside the box and embrace new ideas.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.