Expanding An Existing Gable Roof

If you re adding to the gable end of the house the side wall that goes up to the roof s peak it s fairly easy to extend the existing roofline over the new space says curt schultz a realtor architect builder in pasadena calif.

Expanding an existing gable roof.

This is an especially effective strategy on a small lot and the addition is quite large. A truss framed roof on the other hand doesn t have any attic space to expand you re probably going to have to raise a truss framed roof to get more space. It s simple yet pleasing to the eyes. It is not a job for beginners.

A gable roof would make the new room appear like it s a natural part of your home. Nail new corner trim boards at the corners and put metal flashing on the roof connection. This may require removal of a second rafter. Where the overhang created is more than 450 mm and the roof is constructed with rafters the outrigger may need to extend back at least 900 mm.

You will need building help and a large construction dumpster for debris. However for larger extensions you ll need to hire a professional to get up there and remove large portions of the roof before extending the overhang. Look at a second floor addition in a more urban area with little opportunity to expand horizontally. Slide flashing at least 4 inches under shingles on the existing roof and 4 inches down the new roof.

That s a simple low cost solution that can tie in well with the main house. A stick framed roof with an attic has room to expand a dormer for example might create the additional space you need. In case you don t know what a gable roof is it s the kind of roof that s formed as two slopes meet at the top. You may need a structural engineer to help with design of trusses and rafters.

Install roofing to match the shed corrugated metal or oriented strand board osb sheathing and shingles. But it is important that the roof pitch is exactly the same as the existing roof because you will see it from one roof to the other if it isn t. Tying a gable roof into an existing roof is a long expensive project usually undertaken only when there is a major addition or renovation to a house. One would consider adding a gable roof to an existing roof for the following reasons.