What is Hip Roof and Gable Roof – What Are The Differences?

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Gable roof

A Gable roof may also be called a peaked or pitched roof. They are very popular in the USA, and many people recognize them through the fact they have triangular shapes. They are a near perfect design for places that see a lot of rain, and are vital for places where it snows yearly because the snow falls off instead of sitting and putting pressure on the roofing structure. They are also rather simple to build, which often makes them cheaper.

gable roof
gable roof
gable roof vs hip roof
gable roof vs hip roof

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Hip roof

A Hip roof has a ridge at the top, and from the ridge descend four flat sides. The sides of the roof are equal in length and height. A hip roof is known for being harder to build than a gable roof, but it is far more secure as there are shorter lengths of structure in a way that supports the roof’s center of gravity a little better. This also means they are durable and strong; so they are good at standing up to high winds. They slope in a manner similar to a Gable roof; so it will also allow water and snow to fall off and down the sides.

hip roof
hip roof
hip roof features
hip roof features

Gable Roof vs Hip Roof

As you can tell, the roof you choose will depend on your budget, the type of structure the roof will sit atop and on the local weather conditions. You will need to know the differences between gable roof and hip roof properly to understand what you need. Here are a few comparative facts about gable roofs and hip roofs shown in gable roof vs hip roof table.

Gable roof

Hip roof
  • The Gable roof is quite sturdy, but it will not stand up very well to high winds. Still, if high winds are infrequent in your area, then they are a very good roofing option.
  • The Hip roof will stand up to high winds far better than a Gable roof, making them more suitable for high-wind and hurricane prone areas.
  • A Gable roof does not allow water to stand on your roof, and things such as snow will fall off very easily.
  • The Hip roof doesn’t allow water to stand, and will also allow snow to fall to the ground albeit not as efficiently as a Gable roof.
  • A Gable roof is cheaper than a Hip roof because it is easier to build.
  • If you consider gable roof vs hip roof cost, then a Hip roof is much expensive to build; but it is sturdier than a Gable roof.
  • A correctly installed Gable roof will not leak.
  • A correctly installed Gable roof will not leak, but small mistakes during installation may eventually lead to leaks.
  • A Gable roof is just as durable as a Gable roof if installed in a favorable place, though bad weather is more likely to damage it than a Hip roof.
  • Harsh weather is less likely to damage a Hip roof, but it is wise to undertake minor maintenance every now and again to ensure a small problem doesn’t become a bigger one.
  • A Gable roof can be covered with a wider variety of materials than the Hip roof. A Gable roof has a limited number of materials that may be placed upon it.
  • A Hip roof has a limited number of materials that may be used to cover it, but there are plenty of wear and weather resistant materials available to make a really fantastic Hip roof.

 

Watch the video above to get more clear concept on gable vs hip roofs.

1 thought on “What is Hip Roof and Gable Roof – What Are The Differences?”

  1. Can anyone provide concrete pricing differences between these two styles – gable vs hip? I understand that it is “much” more to construct a hip roof than a gable in terms of labor, but by what factor… say 20% more or like 200% more?

    Thank you.

    Reply

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