A gambrel roof has two sides, and each side has two separate slopes. Its top slope is gentle, but its lower slope is very steep.
This design is not a new idea and has a long history. It became very popular in America hundreds of years ago. Dutch settlers from Holland brought this style with them for their new homes. That is why people call these houses “Dutch Colonial.”
This roof style was popular for a practical reason: it created the most living space for their families. It was a smart way to build a large home simply and quickly, and its eye-catching look is still popular today.
Thinking about more space in your Brooklyn home? This roof could be your best move. Contact Us Now For Free Inspection.
What Is a Gambrel Roof? What Makes the Gambrel Roof Special?
A gambrel roof has two sides, and each side has two slopes. The top slope is short and not very steep. The bottom slope is long and steep. That’s what gives it the bend you see.
Hundreds of years ago, the Dutch brought this roof design with them. They needed homes that were strong, simple to build, and had plenty of room for their families. The gambrel roof was the perfect answer.
You can still see many of these charming and practical houses today, especially in the eastern parts of the country.
In Brooklyn, where every inch counts, that space matters. Most row houses have flat roofs. They don’t leave much room up top. But with a gambrel roof, you get height and style without breaking zoning rules or adding a whole new floor.
It also sheds rain and snow fast. That’s good news during NYC winters. With strong framing and the right materials, this roof works hard and looks good doing it.
Parts of a Gambrel Roof
A gambrel roof may look fancy, but it’s made of a few main parts. Once you know them, it’s easy to understand how it works.
1. Upper Slope
This is the top part of the roof. It’s not very steep. It helps snow or rain slide off but still keeps the roof strong.
2. Lower Slope
This is the bottom part. It’s much steeper. That’s what gives you more space inside — like a taller attic or even a room.
3. Gable Ends
The walls at the ends of the roof are called gable ends. They form a triangle shape. You can put windows here or just keep them plain.
4. Truss
Inside the roof is the truss. It’s the wooden or metal frame that holds the whole roof up. It keeps the shape strong and steady.
5. Dormer
A dormer is like a tiny roof that sticks out of the main one. It often has a window. It brings in sunlight and fresh air. People add dormers to make the attic feel more like a real room.
So even though a gambrel roof looks a bit different, it’s just a smart shape with simple parts. Each one helps the roof look nice and work well.
Benefits of a Gambrel Roof
A gambrel roof is more than just a cool shape. People pick it for good reasons. Let’s look at why this roof can be a smart choice for your home, shed, or garage.
1. More Space Inside
This is the biggest benefit. The steep sides create a huge upstairs area with plenty of headroom. You can easily fit a full second story with multiple rooms, not just a small attic.
2. Better for Rain and Snow
The very steep lower slopes are great for drainage. Rain, snow, and ice slide off easily, which helps protect your home from water damage and leaks.
3. Looks Nice
A gambrel roof just looks good. It adds a timeless, symmetrical charm to any home, shed, or barn. This great curb appeal can even increase your home’s value.
4. Costs Less to Build
Building a gambrel roof is often cheaper than other fancy roof styles. The simple, repeating frame design uses less material and can be built more quickly by your construction team.
5. Good Air Flow
With all that extra space up top, it’s easier to add vents or windows. That means cooler air in summer, less stuffy in winter.
So, if you want a roof that gives you more room, keeps things dry, and looks nice, the gambrel roof could be perfect for you.
Things to Consider About Gambrel Roof Installing
Before you choose a gambrel roof, keep these key points in mind.
- It Needs a Stronger Frame in Windy Spots. The wide top of the roof can catch strong winds. If you live in a windy area, like near the coast, the frame must be built with extra supports for safety.
- Good Ventilation Is a Must. The large attic can trap damp air, leading to mold and rot. Make sure your builder installs proper vents to keep the air circulating and the space dry.
- Its Framing Is More Complex. This roof is harder to build than a simple gable roof. Its many angles and joints must be perfect to prevent leaks, so always hire a builder who has experience with this specific style.
The Brooklyn History: Why You Rarely See It Here (But Should)
The gambrel roof comes from Dutch roots. It was common in colonial homes, built by settlers in the 1600s. You’ll still see it in parts of New England and upstate New York. It gave people more attic space before full second floors were a thing.
Now think about Brooklyn. Many of its homes, especially in neighborhoods like Brooklyn Heights and Ditmas Park, were built later, with flat or gable roofs. That’s why gambrel roofs are rare here. Most brownstones and row houses used simpler roof shapes to fit tight city blocks.
But that’s changing. In parts of Brooklyn, homeowners are adding backyard studios or accessory dwelling units (ADUs). They want more space, but not a full extra floor. That’s where the gambrel roof comes in. It fits within height rules. It adds charm. And it makes a small space feel much bigger.
So while gambrel roofs aren’t part of Brooklyn’s past, they could play a smart role in its future.
Types of Gambrel Roofs
Not all gambrel roofs are the same. They share the same basic shape, two slopes on each side, but they come in different styles. Here are a few you might see (or want) in Brooklyn:
- Classic Gambrel
This is the traditional “barn-style” look. Two sides, four slopes. Clean, simple, and timeless.
- Dormered Gambrel
This type has one or more dormer windows built into the roof. It adds natural light and even more headroom inside. Great for turning attic space into real living space.
- Wall-Supported Gambrel
Instead of using full roof trusses, this one has vertical walls supporting the lower slope. It’s a little easier to frame if you’re remodeling or adding on.
- Valley Gambrel
Used when two gambrel roof sections meet in an “L” or “T” shape. More complex to build but works well for larger homes or extensions.
- Gambrel with Overhangs
Some designs include wide overhangs or flared eaves for extra shade and style. In Brooklyn, these details can help your home stand out on the block.
Each type can work in Brooklyn homes or ADUs, depending on your needs. If you’re building in a tight space, a dormered or wall-supported style may give you the most usable room inside without going over height limits.
Gambrel Roof vs. Other Roofs in Brooklyn
Flat roofs are common in Brooklyn. You see them on row houses, brownstones, and small buildings. But why is a gambrel roof better than other roofs? Here is the answer:
Roof Type Comparison Table (Best for Brooklyn Homes)
| Feature | Gambrel Roof | Flat Roof | Gable Roof | Mansard Roof |
| Roof Shape | Two slopes on each side | Almost flat | Two sloped sides | Four sides, double slope |
| Attic Space | Large usable space | Very limited | Some, depends on pitch | Extra top-floor space |
| Drainage | Fast drainage | Needs careful design | Good with proper slope | Good, needs upkeep |
| Cost to Build | (Moderate) | (Cheapest) | (Moderate) | (Most expensive) |
| Look/Style | Classic, barn-like | Modern, minimal | Simple, traditional | Fancy, French-style |
| Best Use | Homes, sheds, garages | Row houses, extensions | Small homes, garages | Large luxury homes |
| Common in Brooklyn? | Rare but growing | Very common | Some in outer boroughs | Rare, mostly historic |
So if you’re fixing up an old place or building new in Brooklyn, think about what you need. Want more space? Better drainage? A look that stands out? A gambrel roof checks all those boxes.
How Much Does a Gambrel Roof Cost in Brooklyn, NY?
Installing a gambrel roof in Brooklyn costs more than a flat roof, but it also gives you more. On average, you can expect to pay between $14,000 and $30,000 for a full install, depending on size, materials, and labor.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Type of Expense | Brooklyn, NY 11201 | Queens, NY 11375 | Manhattan, NY 10025 | Staten Island, NY 10301 | Albany, NY 12207 | Buffalo, NY 14201 | Rochester, NY 14620 | Syracuse, NY 13210 |
| Framing & Structure | $4,500–$10,000 | $4,200–$9,500 | $5,000–$11,000 | $3,800–$9,000 | $3,500–$8,000 | $3,200–$7,500 | $3,400–$8,000 | $3,300–$7,800 |
| Roofing Materials | $3,000–$8,000 | $2,800–$7,500 | $3,500–$8,500 | $2,500–$7,000 | $2,200–$6,000 | $2,000–$5,500 | $2,200–$5,800 | $2,100–$5,700 |
| Labor (avg) | $5,500–$12,000+ | $5,000–$11,000 | $6,000–$13,000+ | $4,800–$10,500 | $4,000–$9,500 | $3,800–$9,000 | $4,000–$9,200 | $3,900–$9,000 |
| Permits & Fees | $800–$2,000 | $700–$1,800 | $1,000–$2,500 | $500–$1,500 | $400–$1,200 | $300–$1,000 | $350–$1,100 | $300–$1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $13,800–$32,000+ | $12,700–$30,800 | $15,500–$35,000+ | $11,600–$28,000 | $10,100–$24,700 | $9,300–$23,000 | $9,950–$24,100 | $9,600–$23,500 |
Some things affect price:
- The shape and size of your home
- Whether it’s a new build or a remodel
- Materials: Asphalt is cheapest, metal costs more, slate is premium
- Contractor experience (and demand in your borough)
- Need for extra support (especially for snow load)
In Brooklyn, labor rates tend to run high. You’ll also need to factor in permit costs from the NYC Department of Buildings.
Tip: Get 2–3 quotes from licensed contractors. Make sure they know gambrel framing. The right team can build it strong, safe, and stylish without surprises.
Structure and Materials: What Holds a Gambrel Together
A gambrel roof is deceptively simple in appearance, but it requires strong pieces to hold its curves. The builders use rafters or trusses to form the skeleton. These hold up the two slopes, the shallow and the steep. A ridge board at the top. Purlins may be utilized in order to carry the long boards.
For the outside, you can use asphalt shingles, metal panels, or even slate. In Brooklyn, asphalt is most common because it’s low-cost and works well in all seasons. But metal is stronger and lasts longer if you want to invest more.
Airflow is also key. Homes in Brooklyn need soffit vents and ridge vents to keep hot air and moisture from building up in the attic. Without vents, mold can grow or wood can rot.
Even though the shape looks old-fashioned, the inside of a gambrel roof is built for today’s needs: strong, smart, and ready for Brooklyn weather.
Is a Gambrel Roof Good for Brooklyn Weather?
Brooklyn gets it all rain, snow, heat, and wind. A gambrel roof handles most of that pretty well. The steep lower slope helps rain and snow slide off fast. That means less chance of water pooling or leaks.
It also gives you space without breaking height rules. That’s a big deal in Brooklyn, where adding floors isn’t always allowed. With a gambrel roof, you get more room up top without needing a full second story.
But you’ll need strong framing to handle snow loads. And if your home is near the coast, talk to a local roofer about wind resistance. With the right design, this roof can take on Brooklyn’s weather and look good doing it.
Building or Renovating in Brooklyn: What to Know First
Thinking of putting a gambrel roof on your Brooklyn home? Well, first you need to learn the rules.
There are building codes and zoning laws in New York City. They limit the size of your home, how high it can be, and where you can build it. Good news: a gambrel roof can help you stay within those limits while still adding space. That’s why some people use it for backyard studios, garages, or accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
You also need a permit. Always. Talk to a licensed architect or roofer who knows the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) process. They’ll help you design a roof that fits your lot, your home and the law.
If you live in a historic district like Brooklyn Heights or Park Slope, you may also need approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. So don’t skip the paperwork.
Bottom line: A gambrel roof can work in Brooklyn. But to do it right, start with a pro who understands your neighborhood, such as S & R General Construction NYC.
Final Take: Should You Choose a Gambrel Roof in Brooklyn?
If you’re short on space but want more room, a gambrel roof is a smart choice. It gives you height without breaking NYC zoning rules. It fits right in on new backyard builds, garages, or even full home remodels.
Yes, it costs more than a flat roof. And yes, it does take a skilled team to build it right. But the payoff? A house that’s larger, more practical, and unique.
If you’re willing to begin exploring the potential, we recommend hiring professionals who know Brooklyn houses inside and out. A trusted local option is S & R General Construction NYC. They understand NYC codes, tight spaces, and how to build roofs that last.
In a city where every square foot counts, a gambrel roof isn’t just a roof it’s a space-saver, a style boost, and a clever solution for Brooklyn living.
Thinking of building up? Bend that roofline. Go gambrel with the right team by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gambrel Roofs in Brooklyn
What’s the main reason to choose a gambrel roof?
More space, plain and simple. That steep lower slope opens up the attic. You can use that room for storage, a bedroom, even a home office. It gives you more house without adding a full extra story.
Can I add a gambrel roof to my Brooklyn brownstone?
Not easily. Most brownstones have flat roofs and shared walls. But if you’re building a rear extension, backyard studio, or garage, a gambrel roof could be a great fit. Just check with a local architect or the NYC Department of Buildings first.
Is a gambrel roof strong enough for New York winters?
Yes, if it’s built right. The shape sheds snow fast, but you’ll need solid framing underneath. Your contractor may need to reinforce the structure depending on your location and how much snow your area gets. Ventilation is also key to stop moisture buildup.
Does it cost more than a flat roof?
Usually, yes. A flat roof is cheaper and simpler to install. But a gambrel roof adds value through extra usable space. Think of it like getting a bonus room up top.
Can I use solar panels on a gambrel roof?
Yes, in most cases. You’ll just need to place them on the upper, flatter slope. Make sure the slope faces the right direction and gets enough sunlight. A local solar installer can help you figure that out.
How long does it take to build a gambrel roof?
It depends. If it’s part of new construction, it fits right into the build plan. If you’re replacing a roof or remodeling, it might take 1–3 weeks, depending on your home’s size and setup.
Need help choosing the right roof for your Brooklyn home? Ask. That’s what S & R General Construction NYC is for.