Terminology used to describe roof types and components might be a foreign language for those who are not familiar with it. Whilst it is appreciated that certain words have other meanings we have listed below an explanation of words used when discussing the structure or type of a roof.

Cross Gable: Similar to gable roof (see below), but has two gable parts that cross in a “T” like.

Cross Hipped: Similar to hipped roof (see below) but this type has two parts that cross.

Flat: A flat roof.

Gable (see cross gable above):   A simple triangular shaped roof from the side with two rectangle sections opposing each other creating an upside down “V”. The two triangle portions are at 90 degrees to the ridge.

Gambrel:  This roof looks more traditionally barn or bell shaped than triangular when viewed from the side. It is like a flattened gable roof. Many farms have gambrel roofs.

Hipped (see cross hipped above):  A pyramid shaped roof where four triangle sections are sloped to meet in a single point.

Pavilion Hipped:  A simple triangular shaped roof from the side with two opposing isosceles trapezoids that meet at the hip of the roof thus creating two angled sloped triangles sections. This roof type is typically a low-pitched roof.

Mansard:  This roof type has a flat area at the top with four heavily sloped sides slanting out to meet and / or exceed the walls of the building.

Shed: A single sloped roof.

Saltbox: Similar to a gable roof, but the two sides of it are not symmetrical.