Well      07.03.2020

Multi-gable roof construction. Multi-gable roofs: how to create "complex" beauty? Design features: pros and cons

A multi-gable roof is a rather complex structure for erection. She has many different structural elements: a lot of rays, ribs, forceps, valleys.

Multi-gable roof

The erection and covering of such roofs require a great deal of experience in construction works Oh, correct calculation the entire roof structure, as well as taking into account all the expected loads that will subsequently affect the supports.

What is this type of roof and its design features? You can learn about this and other details of the construction of a multi-gable roof from this article.

The main advantages of a multi-gable roof:

  • Attractive appearance. These roofs came to us from the west, where they were most widely used for their attractive appearance;
  • The practicality of this type of roof. Snow or other precipitation hardly lingers on the roof slopes at all, but quickly disappears due to the grooves and the large slope of the roof slopes;
  • Strength and durability of the entire structure. Such a roof can withstand heavy loads, thanks to a balanced rafter system. This, of course, is one of its main advantages;
  • Efficient use of space under the roof, which makes it possible to equip additional premises;

But there are some disadvantages that also need to be mentioned:

  • The complexity of the whole structure. If a multi-gable roof is being built with his own hands, it means that the owner of the house himself has rich experience in such work or an excellent consultant, otherwise, you can easily make mistakes and then it will hardly be possible to do it right;
  • Large waste of materials. Since the roof has multiple bends and slopes, a large amount of waste will be generated during the process of covering it with roofing material. From which we can conclude that the construction of a multi-gable roof is not a cheap pleasure.

Based on the above pros and cons, you can make a decision, but is, in fact, the “game of candles” worth it?

What is a multi-gable roof made of?

So, what are the main elements it consists of? Let's take a closer look:

  1. mauerlat is a special bar that is placed around the entire perimeter of the building, then the entire rafter system rests on it and is attached;
  2. grooves through which precipitation is discharged;
  3. inclined planes of slopes;
  4. horizontal and inclined ribs;
  5. rafters - special wooden poles and boards;
  6. crate to evenly distribute the load from the weight of the roof;
  7. overhangs are the edges of the roof, which are located above the walls of the house;
  8. drains where precipitation flows;
  9. ridge - the upper part of the roof;
  10. valleys - the angles of the connection of two slopes.

The difficult arrangement of the roof is due to the fact that in those places where there is an intersection of slopes, it is also necessary to install diagonal rafters so that the whole structure is complete and complete.

When installing a multi-gable roof, it is imperative to pay attention to such an element as grooves. If they are installed and installed incorrectly, the roof may subsequently leak.

Variety of multi-gable roof shapes

If a decision is made to create a multi-gable roof, then valleys cannot be dispensed with. In this case, one way or another, the junctions of the two slopes will appear, and you need to pay special attention to the junctions. Since these are the internal corners of the roof, the load on them will be much higher than on the rest of the roof. Therefore, the correct construction of the docking of the slopes is the reliability and durability of the roof being built.


In another way, a multi-gable roof over a square house is also called a hip roof, since this version of the roof has four slopes located on opposite sides of the house. The stingrays themselves are called nothing more than hips.

Such a roof involves the construction of additional gable walls, and the entire truss system in this case becomes more complicated. In rare cases, you can find a half-hinged four-gabled roof, where two slopes running along the sides are slightly cut off from a large gable.

This explains the difference between the half-hips and the main slopes, they usually have a much shorter length, in the part where the slope line goes. Such half-hips can be built in the upper part of the roof, in the form of a triangle, and in this case the gable will be in the form of a trapezoid. In this case, this tong will protrude forward from the wall.

Design features of multi-gable roofs

It is believed that the installation of a multi-gable roof should be carried out on those houses that, in their design features, have a very non-trivial layout. It is also used in cases where it is necessary to increase the attic space, creating more space in it for additional living space.

A multi-gable roof over a square house is the most common option and much less often the base of the roof looks like a polygon, as this requires additional calculations. If the roof structure assumes the use of slopes in the form of equilateral triangles, then their vertices must converge at the same point.

Today there are finished projects various forms of multi-gable roofs. If we talk, for example, about a four-pitched hip roof, then in this design there must be valleys. Necessary condition in this case, there will be a ventilated (ventilated) attic room, it must be completely isolated from other rooms kept warm.

Another point to consider is that such roofs consume more building materials, i.e. after installation, quite a lot of waste remains.

If we consider, for example, the construction of a semi-hip roof, then its main feature is the installation of several rafters. Such a design will be quite complicated in execution, and this must be remembered.

In the manufacture of such a design, the number of slopes obtained also gives a certain number of internal corners, the so-called valleys. This necessary element roofs, because it is along the valleys that unnecessary precipitation rolls down. Therefore, special attention should be paid to this particular element, which is necessary for isolation from water.

Valleys are also characterized by the fact that in these places the probability of snow accumulation in winter is the greatest, which can lead to additional load on the roof. Therefore, in winter, the roof (multi-gable) must be periodically cleaned, freeing it from excess precipitation.

Architectural complexities of a multi-gable roof


Needless to say, the construction of a multi-gable roof is a difficult task even for experienced professionals. Indeed, in the design of this type of roof there are valleys, and grooves, as well as many ribs, while all this must be correctly connected, which requires great skill and experience in construction work.

Therefore, it is not surprising that it is mainly used to create projects that are architecturally complex, where polygonal structures and elements are planned.

The greatest use of gable roofs can be found in private construction, which is explained by its beauty and aesthetic qualities and characteristics. In the private construction of houses, one can often find such intricate and complex forms of roofs that it is sometimes difficult to even recognize that this is a multi-gable roof.

The most popular representatives of multi-gable roofs can safely be called half-hipped roofs.

The simplest of the multi-gable roofs is the one in which two roof slopes intersect at a ninety-degree angle.

Multi-gable roof, features of the truss system

First of all, it is necessary to clarify what the rafter system of such a roof consists of. This includes the rafters themselves, special runs (beams), and, of course, Mauerlat is its indispensable attribute. Mauerlat is one of the important components of the entire system. It serves to redistribute all the loads of the roof on the walls of the whole house.

Usually this wooden bars a certain size, in this case 150 x 100 millimeters. As for the length, it can be different, but basically it has one and a half meters. The rafter system is best made from pine.

Rafters, in turn, are divided into two types - hanging and layered. Which will be used in construction depends on the specific design features of the gable roof. Sometimes both types of rafters are used in hotel structures.

Where the gable roofs are connected, diagonal rafters (legs) should be present, and the rafters (which will hold the support) should already be installed on them.

Since the diagonal rafters take on a very large load in such roofs, they almost always need to be reinforced by connecting them into two boards.

In the upper part of the roof, the rafters must be connected by a run, which is made from bars or boards connected to each other. If such a need arises, then additional intermediate runs are sometimes mounted.

After installation truss system completed, you must not forget to lay the waterproofing film. It should run in a perpendicular direction with respect to the slope, while you need to make a small overlap, about 15 centimeters. At the joints of the joints, for greater waterproofing, it is necessary to walk with a connecting tape. Be sure to pay attention to the roof valleys, they also need to be reliably waterproofed, since it is in these places that precipitation will come off the roof.

When the rafter system is ready, after installing the waterproofing layer, it is already possible to lay the counter-lattice. The most common material for crates are bars. If the roofing material comes with installation instructions, then it is better to do it according to this instruction.

Stages of construction of a multi-gable roof


So how, after all, to make this difficult multi-gable roof? As mentioned earlier, a multi-gable roof structure is nothing more than joining several gable roofs together. When they are connected, the house looks much better and makes a very favorable impression from the outside.

Do-it-yourself multi-gable roof is built in several stages:

  • carrying out very accurate calculations that contain the dimensions of all elements of the house and the roof, the calculation of snow and precipitation loads on the roof of the building;
  • correct calculation of the length and required section of the rafters;
  • put a mauerlat along the entire length of the bearing walls, which will then be the basis for the entire roof;
  • installation in the right places of the main details of the roof structure (various stops, grooves, skates and others);
  • installation of the truss system on the Mauerlat, using nails or reinforcing pins (if the main frame of the house is made of concrete structures);
  • last step works will be the installation of lathing, as well as layers of vapor and waterproofing before covering the roof.

So, after finding out the features of the construction of a multi-gable roof, important conclusions can be drawn: most often a multi-gable roof is erected over a square house, depending on the climate of the region, the angle of the slope of the slopes is chosen, the increase in costs and the complexity of the design is compensated by obtaining additional space under the beautiful roof of your house.

The construction term "multi-gable roof" defines a house roof structure that has several gables or gables more than one. A multi-gable truss roof is designed as a complex pitched rafter system. Thus, if there are several gables or gables near the wall of the building, the roof of such a design can be called a multi-gable roof. Original roofing systems can be found not only in historical sites, but also in old estates or locks. Building fashion has carried the demand for multi-gable roofs into the present day, and now most private cottages are being built with such roofs. Companies offer customers a wide variety of projects of complex truss systems, which are the basis of gable roofs, even if the construction is expensive.

Functional load of a multi-gable roof

Such a roof performs many tasks - from technical and operational to aesthetic and design. Therefore, the project must be worked out in all directions, all elements and parts of the gable roof with their own hands must have high precision and reliability. It is also desirable to make design changes to the project that make the roof of the house unlike other structures.

Even the standard gable roof with two gables can be attributed to multi-gable structures, but the roof will be called two-gable. When developing a scheme for a roofing system with paired gables or gables, the roof acquires a complex multi-gable orientation.

The complex rafter system of a multi-gable roof is quite feasible on its own, subject to all building rules and recommendations. Before the final choice of the project scheme, you should at least superficially familiarize yourself with different options arrangement of multi-gable roofs, photos of which are presented below in the figures:

A complex multi-gable roof has the right to life in the following non-standard situations:

  1. If the style of the building requires compliance with the solidity of the architectural composition;
  2. If one or more buildings are attached to the main building;
  3. If it is decided to decorate a rectangular or square house with additional gables;
  4. During the construction of recessed windows, loggias, balconies on the roof;
  5. If the requirements for the attic do not provide for enhanced natural daylight;
  6. Also, a multi-gable roof is being built in houses with a large number of residential and technical premises. It can be low-rise residential buildings or a one-story house of a large area. large area.

Design pros and cons

The architecture of the building only benefits from the construction of a multi-gable truss system.

The advantages of such a structure are enough to make a choice in its favor:

  1. Unusualness, originality, aesthetics and harmony of a building with a multi-gable roof are immediately visible;
  2. The design is reliable and durable precisely due to its complexity - multidirectional fastenings of rafters and gables, due to numerous stiffeners, level all types of loads - lateral, impulse, shock, weight and wind, and also negates the influence of atmospheric phenomena, such as heavy snow or deg. Snow swells will not be held on steep roof slopes, so it is necessary to design a reliable storm sewer with high throughput;
  3. The presence of several gables is a great opportunity to equip one or more additional residential or technical premises on the top floor;

Negative moments influencing the choice of project:

  1. The high cost of the system due to the large number of building materials, complex construction work and construction time;
  2. The construction of such a system involves a lot of scraps of roofing materials, and other waste building materials;
  3. The complex geometry of the roof makes it necessary to calculate the dimensions of the parts with a high degree of accuracy, for which it is easier to use an online calculator. It is not recommended for non-professionals to mount the structure - it is more reliable to contact a regional construction company;
  4. high-quality waterproofing is necessary, especially at internal joints;
  5. Great pressure on the valley in winter.

Design nuances

Typical designs of houses with a multi-gable roof include a pitched rafter system with a slope to the walls of the building. This allows you to effortlessly ensure rain runoff and snow melting. The structural elements that make up the roofing device are as follows:

  1. A slope is a fragment of a roof without bends and turns;
  2. Gable (pediment) - upper fragment outer wall, whose boundaries are determined by the slopes of the roof. There is an insignificant difference between a pediment and a gable: gables do not have a cornice at the bottom;
  3. Endova (groove) - internal corner joints of the roof, which appear at the joints of the slopes. At the end, the valley ends at the border of the pediment. The valley is the most loaded part of the roof structure, as in inside corners snow and rain streams are constantly gathering (see photo above). During construction work, it is she who needs to be given special attention in order to avoid problems associated with the appearance of leaks in the future.
  4. Edge (ridge - a horizontally located joint, which is formed by connecting adjacent slopes;
  5. The overhang provides connection of a roof fragment with a width of 300-500 mm. The main function of the overhang is to protect the building from rain and snow, the maximum possible drainage of rain and melt water;
  6. The drainage system diverts water from the roof into the drainage system;
  7. The junction is a fragment of the junction of the slopes with the outer wall.

  1. Skate;
  2. Gable detail - wind or end rail;
  3. Lower valley;
  4. Upper valley;
  5. Dropper - eaves plank;
  6. Snow retention bar;
  7. adjoining plank;
  8. Ventilation shaft cover;
  9. Ebb on the window;
  10. Fronton L-bar for the outer corners of the roof;
  11. Soffit;
  12. Ventkanal sheathed with profiled sheet;
  13. Window in the attic;
  14. Wall J-channel;
  15. Gutter.

Step-by-step process for building a multi-gable roof

The assembly of a multi-gable roof is carried out in compliance with the requirements specified in the project. The steps are:

  1. First, it is necessary to systematize climate data in the region; climate data - they will be useful in calculations and in the preparation of project documentation;
  2. Project development and calculation of building materials, project budgeting. This step is quite difficult to do on your own, so do not be stingy - put the work in the hands of professionals. It is also recommended to pre-compile a list of building materials, their quantity and approximate dimensions;
  3. The first practical step is to mount the Mauerlat around the perimeter of the outer walls of the house;
  4. Installation of vertical supports and fastening of horizontal girders to form a ridge;
  5. Assembly of support beams that determine the shape of the transition and docking of the slopes;
  6. The truss structure is reinforced with struts for a more even distribution of loads;
  7. Parts are fastened with metal hardware - steel plates, staples, threaded studs or anchors;
  8. On the rafters on the outside, a frame of slats is assembled for attaching the roofing material.

The design of the frame is determined by the choice of roofing. When installing a soft roof, it is better to mount a solid frame, without gaps. If the roof will be covered with hard roofing materials (metal tiles, corrugated board, corrugated board), it is allowed to make gaps between the slats or boards in the frame.

Protection against moisture and heat loss

Waterproofing materials in rolls are very easily rolled into strips and overlapped (overlap - 100-150 mm), perpendicular to the slope. The joints of the rolls are sealed with a special adhesive tape or construction tape. Joints and seams on the valleys need to be sealed especially carefully - with two or three layers of tape or adhesive tape.

If the laying of waterproofing layers was carried out with violations technological process, with the use of low quality materials, then you should expect the corresponding consequences - moisture will collect under the roof, the heat-insulating layer of the roof will get wet, they will rot and mold wooden beams and rafters.

A couple of decades ago, glassine and roofing material were the most popular material for roof waterproofing, but time and technology do not stand still. Innovative waterproofing membrane coatings (films) are able not only to retain their performance characteristics much longer, but also to comply with the requirements for environmental friendliness and safety of people living in the house.

When assembling a multi-gable roof, additional unoccupied space appears in the attic, and it can be equipped with residential or technical utility rooms. In view of this additional opportunity to expand the space, the roof must be well insulated and protected from atmospheric moisture. Mineral wool and other similar heaters are the ideal solution for complex roofs, as they can take any form. A layer of soft heat insulator prevents the formation of "cold bridges" - it is in them that moisture first appears. For the manufacture of mineral-based thermal insulation, basalt or glass are best suited. The advantages of these materials for surface insulation are obvious:

  1. Low weight insulation;
  2. High fire safety and fire resistance (NG group);
  3. Environmental friendliness of operation.

Mineral wool also absorbs noise, which is important for all residents of the house.

How much does it cost to build a multi-gable roof

Drawing up a project, costing estimates and the amount of building materials, time and labor costs - all these parameters can only be calculated with a high degree of accuracy by professionals. An independent approach to such a responsible business can result in significant financial losses. Therefore, you should not save on the services of specialists - your costs will pay off handsomely.

If the structures are designed and built in compliance with GOST and SNiP, then the result will be as follows:

  1. The house will look neat and beautiful, I spit on no one else's design will make it unique;
  2. Long-term resistance of the roof to atmospheric phenomena and other loads is provided;
  3. Housing will acquire additional free space, which you can equip at your discretion.

The cost of building a multi-gable roof and carrying out preparatory work (drawing up a project and other necessary documentation) depends on the quality and cost of consumables, the complexity of assembling structures, and the level of employment of workers. Therefore, the approximate cost can be determined only after all the prerequisites for construction have been met - calculation of materials, design, hiring a team of professional workers.

In this article we will talk about what is a multi-gable roof. A multi-gable roof over a square house has a large number of valleys, ribs, gables, gables. The gable is the upper part of the wall of the building, which is limited by two roof slopes and is not separated by a cornice from below. When the upper part of the wall is separated from the lower part by a cornice, then this is already a pediment. The gable roof consists of two planes that rest on the walls and are limited by gables or gables from the ends.

What is a multi-gable roof

Multi-gable roofs are arranged on houses that have a complex layout, with side lighting of attics, covering extensions, gables above the entrances.

When constructing such a roof as, elements such as valleys must be present. You also need to know that a building with such a roof must have a ventilated attic, which will be completely isolated from all warm rooms.

Multi-gable roofs require a large consumption of roofing materials, and after its installation, quite a lot of material waste remains.


A multi-gable roof is typical for buildings with a complex plan.

A type such as is formed by installing several slopes. This is a rather complicated construction, the main disadvantage of which is the complexity of implementation.

When constructing this roof, the intersections of the slopes form internal corners (valleys). A large amount of water flows down them and therefore close attention should be paid to the waterproofing of such corners.

In addition, a large amount of snow can accumulate in the valleys, and this significantly increases the load on the roof. The main advantage of a multi-gable roof is its expressive appearance, as well as the overlapping of several rooms with a single-level roof.

gable roof

A gable roof is the heaviest roof in the construction of roofs, since there are many valleys, grooves, and ribs in the design. It is mainly used in buildings with polygonal building design, difficult architecture.

It is often used in the construction of private houses. The spire has an artistic character, and such elements are installed on domed roofs and towers.

These roofs do not carry a useful meaning, but they do a significant job in creating the architectural style of the building. IN individual construction gable roof is a complex of several forms, sometimes so intricate that it is even difficult to recognize them.

Today, two-level coatings and half-hip roofs are popular.

Your attention! The simplest design is the intersection of two pitched roofs at an angle of 90º.

The rafter system of a multi-gable roof consists of rafters, mauerlat, girders (beams). An element such as a mauerlat redistributes the load from the roof to the walls of the house through the rafter legs and thus connects to the walls.

It consists of wooden bars 150x100 mm and 150x150 mm. And also for this use pieces of timber having a length of 1.5 meters. Collect rafters for such a roof from dry pine boards, which have a cross section of 150x50 mm.

Rafters are hanging and layered - it depends on the presence or absence of additional supports, as well as on the design of the multi-gable roof. In the roof device, both types of rafters can be used simultaneously.

In places where gable roofs are articulated, slanted or diagonal rafter legs are installed, on which the sprigs (shorten rafter legs) will rest. Due to the fact that a very large load acts on the diagonal rafters, they need to be strengthened - to be rallied into two boards.

In the upper part of the rafters, they are connected with a ridge run made of boards or timber cohesive among themselves. If necessary, additional intermediate runs are installed.

Tip! After the rafter system is installed, the waterproofing film is laid in strips, perpendicular to the direction of the slope, with an overlap of at least 15 cm, as well as with mandatory gluing of the joints using connecting tapes. Close attention should be paid to the places where the valleys are located, as large flows of water will flow along them.

On the rafters, bars of the counter-lattice are sewn after laying the waterproofing layer. Basically, bars with a section of 50x50 mm or boards of 32x100 mm are used to perform such work. Sheathing should be carried out in accordance with the instructions for the selected roofing.

Gable roof construction

gable roofs

A lot of owners of private houses want to know how to make a multi-gable roof.

This type of roofs are rather complex structures, and when such a structure is constructed, several fragments of the building can represent gable variations, which are then combined into a single complex, while creating an amazing impression.

Do-it-yourself construction of a four-gable roof consists of the following steps:

  • it is necessary to remove the correct dimensions of the house;
  • calculate the cross section and length of the rafters;
  • correctly position stops, skates, valleys;
  • then a Mauerlat should be installed, which should run along the perimeter of the wall and serve as a reliable "foundation" of the roof;
  • then it is necessary to install rafters, which are fixed on the Mauerlat with cuts or nails;
  • then the crate, waterproofing, the roofing itself, as well as steam and heat insulation are installed.

The design of the multi-gable roof is a pitched roof with sloping roof surfaces towards the outer walls and at the same time provides a natural runoff of melt and rainwater.

The choice of slope directly depends on the climatic conditions of the region, the roofing material and architectural requirements. In some areas, the slope angle is 90º.

The main elements of the roof

Schematic of a four-gable roof

The structural scheme of the four-gable roof consists of the following elements:

  1. inclined planes - slopes;
  2. rafters;
  3. crates;
  4. Mauerlat;
  5. horizontal and inclined ribs;
  6. skate;
  7. valleys;
  8. grooves;
  9. overhangs;
  10. gutters.

The device of a multi-gable roof is a rather laborious process, since additional diagonal rafters should be installed at the intersection of the slopes when erecting such a structure.

In this case, elements such as grooves are formed, which are also called "snow bags". And when installing the roof, special attention should be paid to these elements, since with poor-quality installation, the roof will definitely leak in these places.

Roof forms

With a complex roof, it is necessary to install valleys, which are the least reliable place on the roof, since snow accumulates in these places and the load on the truss system increases.

The four-gable roof is a design of slopes on four sides. It is also called hip or tent, and slopes - hips.

These structures do not require gable walls, but the truss system is more complex than the gable one. Sometimes such a roof is made in the form of a half-hip, and at the same time, the side slopes, as it were, cut off part of the spitz.

Therefore, half-hips have a shorter length along the slope than the main slopes.

They can be located in the form of a triangle, at the very top of the roof, and form a gable in the form of a trapezoid, or a trapezoid anise - then a triangular gable is formed at the top, which lies outside the plane of the wall.

This design is used for buildings that have a polygonal or square plan. A roof with such slopes in the form of isosceles triangles converges with vertices at one point.

A multi-gable roof, with all the complexity of calculation and installation, is especially popular in our country. Its complex, geometrically perfect appearance evokes persistent associations with wooden architecture: high towers, carved platbands and shutters. Although simple roof shapes are cheaper and more convenient to maintain, a well-designed multi-gable roof opens up wide opportunities for original architectural solutions and use of internal space.

Pros and cons of a multi-gable roof

The advantages of a multi-pitched roof are numerous and obvious:

  • the possibility of rational use of the internal volume;
  • overlapping of buildings complex in terms of;
  • attractive appearance;
  • variety of architectural solutions;
  • a large angle of inclination allows you to effectively drain water;
  • a thick layer of snow does not accumulate;
  • equally well suited for houses made of stone and wood.

The multi-gable roof features a wide variety of options

At the same time, the complexity of the design determines its disadvantages:

  • the need for competent design, great sensitivity to the correct installation;
  • not every type of roofing is suitable;
  • high material consumption due to the large area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe slopes;
  • the need for an extensive drainage system;
  • high cost due to the use of numerous additional elements.

Features of the design and device of a multi-gable roof

Gable is an architectural term for the top of a building bounded by two slopes. by the most simple option gable roof is gable. More complex forms of multi-gable structures are formed as a result of intersections of slopes.

Bearing elements of a pitched roof - rafters that transfer weight and operational loads to the walls of the building

Gable roof

Historically, the gable roof is the most popular final construction of individual residential buildings. Her virtues:

  • a significant angle of inclination, which allows organizing effective water drainage;
  • ease of installation, rational load distribution scheme;
  • well-developed schemes of nodes for connecting elements;
  • ease of maintenance due to the optimal device;
  • service life is limited only by the durability of the roofing;
  • ease of repair and reconstruction;
  • a significant internal volume allows you to arrange attics and exploited attic spaces;
  • the highest ventilation efficiency through the end walls.

The use of a gable roof allows you to arrange terraces and balconies at the ends of the building, as well as provide significant overhangs to protect the walls of the building from precipitation.

The supporting frame of a gable roof can be made using two types load-bearing elements: rafters and roof trusses. The first option is more common, the second is used for large areas of the base of the roof, significant spans and operational loads.

Rafters can be designed:

  1. Hanging. This means that at the point of connection they do not have a support that transfers the load to the supporting structures of the building.
  2. Layered. Such rafters have additional support in the form of a run, which, in turn, is mounted on vertical racks.

In order for the rafter system to correctly perceive horizontal rapier loads, the hanging rafters are connected with a puff or a crossbar, and the layered rafters with a scramble

Laminated truss systems are more reliable, designed for heavy roofs and significant snow loads. Hanging rafters are used to organize an attic room or an exploited attic.

Types of gable roof trusses

Farm (from lat. firmus - durable) - building construction, which allows, through the use of straight elements connected by hinge joints, to eliminate bending loads.

The device of trusses reduces the weight of the supporting frame of the roof, increases the allowable spans, and reduces the consumption of materials. In addition, roof trusses can be assembled on the ground and then lifted up, which increases the assembly accuracy and simplifies installation.

Farms are used to cover a large unsupported span

Ready-to-install truss trusses can be ordered from the factory, which guarantees the quality of workmanship and the stability of the geometry. Structures made of premium wood can be successfully used for buildings without a top floor, insulating only the upper roof plane, since the exposed elements of truss trusses are very decorative and popular in loft or rustic styles.

In order to organize an additional floor - an attic - in the internal volume of the roof, it is necessary to use trusses with direct views of the lattice, leaving a gap in the middle of the structure. The angle of inclination of such a roof should be increased accordingly.

For device attic floor use special attic types farms

One of the most common forms of a multi-gable roof is a hipped roof.

Four slopes diversify architectural solution buildings and increase under-roof space

This option is formed as a result of the intersection of two gable roofs. The spatial layout of this design includes a valley (groove) - an inner corner.

It is this element of the truss system that is the reason for the technological complexity of a multi-gable roof, complicates the calculation and installation of roofing parts. Providing the main drainage from the roof surface, the valley should be made on high level, since errors during construction can result in leaks and violations of the integrity of the coating.

Simple types of truss systems hipped roof can be implemented practically without the use of additional metal parts

A special case of a hipped roof is the variant with dormer windows. In this case, the building can be square or rectangular in plan, only the shape of the roof changes.

Dormer windows help to organize the attic more rationally or improve the lighting and ventilation of the attic.

Other types of multi-gable roofs

In addition to the simplest symmetrical options, multi-gable roofs allow you to combine types, for example, use hip and hip endings, form various types of slope intersections, each of which may include dormer windows.

The non-standard design of the dormer windows and the change in the angle of the slopes form the original architectural forms

Especially often, various combinations of a hip multi-gable roof are used for single-storey buildings of a large area, since the rational organization of space requires a complex angular layout, and drainage from a long roof is easier to organize using valleys.

The angular layout of a one-story building can be the basis for the use of a multi-gable hip roof with dormer windows

Buildings with a plan view of the letter P, G or T can only be designed using a multi-gable roof. Hip slopes are a popular solution, as they allow you to get rid of gables.

A hip multi-gable roof is used for buildings of complex shape with an unused attic

For wooden multi-storey buildings mansard multi-gable roofs of complex shape with dormer windows are often used.

Multi-pitched roofs with a large angle of inclination allow you to arrange several levels of the attic inside the under-roof space

Multi-gable roof truss system

The main feature of the truss structure of a multi-pitched roof is the internal ribs of the intersection of slopes, valleys. Depending on the angle at which the slopes adjoin each other, the nodes for connecting the elements of the truss structure are designed.

The rafter systems of symmetrical multi-gable roofs are easier to manufacture with layered rafters

The installation of the valley and the adjoining of the rafters to it are not very difficult, provided that modern woodworking tools are used and preliminary calculation roofs.

Video: installation of a truss structure with a valley

The junctions of two parts of the roof can be implemented in the simplest case using only wooden elements and precise angles.

In the truss system of a multi-gable roof, to form an internal angle of junction of the slopes, valley rafters and shortened truss beams are used

For more complex roof options that cover large areas and carry significant operational loads, metal corners and plates are used. It is imperative to carry out calculations of the bearing capacity of such structures and develop detailed layout plans for rafters, girders and other load-bearing elements.

A well-executed project of a multi-gable roof is a guarantee of structural strength and a long service life.

The choice of roofing for a multi-gable roof

Since the construction of a multi-gable roof has internal ribs, numerous junctions and intersections of slopes with each other, the roofing must meet the following requirements:

  • be easy to install and process, cut without problems at arbitrary angles;
  • be completed with a large number of additional elements;
  • let arrange complex system drain;
  • be designed for installation on roofs with a large angle of inclination.

Proper roof construction requires the use of a variety of additional elements.

Based on these criteria, we can conclude that slate, ondulin, corrugated board are of little use as a coating for multi-gable roofs. The dimensions of common slate sheets are 0.98x1.5 and 1.13x1.5 m, ondulin - 0.95x2 m, corrugated board 1.15x6 m. Their advantage is a significant coverage area, which is most evident in the roof with a slight slope and simple geometry . In the case of a complex structure with intersections of slopes, there is a need for trimming, and here the advantages turn into a disadvantage: a lot of waste occurs, the fit becomes more complicated. And also these roofing materials are characterized by a large profile height and an increased overlap of sheets, which in some cases makes it impossible to properly install the extensions and drains.

The exception is a simple gable roof, in which there are no internal corners and dormer windows. Of the additional elements, you only need a ridge, a ventilation frame and gutters. Trimming in this case will be minimal, material consumption will not increase.

In the case of a complex multi-pitched roof, preference should be given to piece materials: ceramic, cement-sand and slate tiles. The small size allows you to rationally fill the most complex forms with minimal trimming waste. A large number of additional elements makes it possible to connect and intersect roof elements with reliable waterproofing and drainage.

Ceramic tiles allow the most rational and technologically efficient roofing for complex variants of multi-gable roofs

Metal tiles and soft bituminous tiles can also be considered as roofing material, provided that all technological nuances. For a metal tile, the correct implementation of the valley node is critical. For this are required:

  • reinforcement of the lathing at the place of installation of the valley, it is optimal to make it continuous;
  • the use of several layers of waterproofing over the crate;
  • installation of the inside of the valley;
  • sealing the joints of the roofing material with silicone;
  • installation of the outer part of the valley.

Bituminous soft tiles require a continuous sheathing of sheet material over the entire area of ​​​​the roof and under-roof ventilation. In the inner corners, additional waterproofing is necessarily used - a valley carpet.

Features of roofing roofing materials

The complexity of the geometry of multi-gable roofs requires careful fitting and trimming of the roofing material and additional elements for precise connection between them. However, if you have a detailed project, you can mount the roofing with your own hands. Of course, this work requires accuracy, accuracy and adherence to the laying technology recommended by the manufacturer.

The metal tile is installed using special self-tapping screws coated for corrosion protection. It is easier to calculate the amount of base material and additional elements in a specialized program, since the complex geometry of the roof requires numerous trimmings.

The layout of sheets of metal tiles on slopes of complex shape generates a significant amount of waste due to trimming

Special attention it is necessary to pay attention to the correct installation of the valley elements, ridges and junctions with vertical structures, since the reliability of the roof waterproofing depends on this.

Video: installation of a valley as part of a metal roof

For houses with more than two storeys, especially with complex roof geometry, it is highly desirable to install a drainage system from the roof.

Piece ceramic, cement-sand and polymer coatings were originally designed for installation on roofs of complex geometry. They are easy to use due to their small size. Their only drawback is their rather large weight. Therefore, the roof sheathing must be reinforced, and during direct installation it is necessary to evenly distribute the prepared stacks of tiles over the entire surface of the slope so as not to overload the structure.

When installing ceramic tiles, it is important to calculate the required amount of material and prepare it for laying, evenly distributing it over the roof surface.

Lay soft bituminous tiles on complex roof easiest because of its low weight, flexibility and ease of processing. However, it requires mandatory preparation of the roof: the installation of a solid base made of OSB or moisture-resistant plywood, the installation of a lining waterproofing carpet, additionally reinforced at the bends of the slopes (skates and valleys).

Under soft tiles need to equip a solid base

Options and methods for finishing a multi-gable roof from the inside

Depending on how it is planned to use the under-roof space, the finishing method is chosen.

If the attic is unexploited or technical, it is enough just to sheathe it with a construction OSB board along the underside of the rafters.

The roof of the dwelling must be insulated. For this thermal insulation material mounted between the rafters using a counter-beam, which is installed perpendicular to the rafters. Sometimes it is installed in parallel, with an offset to the inter-rafter gap. From the side of the room, the insulation is closed with a vapor barrier membrane. And only after it you can mount the front trim. The selected material can be attached to the counter beam or an additional rail or metal profile can be applied.

Installation of the finishing coating on the rail allows you to provide an additional ventilation gap for better ventilation insulation

For attics or one-story houses without attic floor in the loft style, a truss system partially open from below can be used.

At the same time, the roof is insulated and sewn up, and parts of the wooden roof trusses protruding into the room are covered with decorative impregnation or paint.

Wooden trusses can be used in the interior as an independent decorative element.

A popular type of finish is wood paneling - clapboard, planed board. It is used in interiors of country and rustic styles. Wooden finishing materials are sewn onto the counter-lattice along the rafters, which allows all parts of the roof structure to be well ventilated. Twhich sheathing additionally increases the rigidity of the structure and improves its thermal insulation properties.

Wood cladding accentuates the complex broken roof shapes

Finally, the attic room can be sheathed with magnesite slab or drywall, and then painted in any color. To do this, after installing the insulation and vapor barrier, metal profiles are sewn across the rafters, onto which the selected sheet material.

Monochromatic light-colored paint visually expands the attic space

Variants of projects of houses with a multi-gable roof

Since there are a huge number of options for combinations of types of roofs as part of a multi-gable roof and the architect's imagination is limited only by the technological subtleties of the selected roofing material and the financial capabilities of the customer, building projects are diverse and numerous.

Photo gallery: projects of buildings with multi-gable roofs

A simple four-pitched roof option is often chosen for one-story L-shaped buildings.
A multi-gable hip roof can be used for a house with an outbuilding in which a garage or workshop is arranged.
The large gable roof pitch allows for the design of an attic floor
In the architectural solutions of country cottages, a multi-pitched roof with partial overhanging of the slopes can be used.
The number of slope crossings is limited only by the imagination of the architect

It is better to understand what architectural possibilities a multi-pitched roof provides, building projects allow. For example, with the help of a hipped roof, you can arrange a second light in the living room of a one-story house.

The living room of this house has a large ceiling height and glass area.

The building is cruciform in plan, covered verandas are located on the short sides, and the central intersection of the slopes makes the living room twice as high as the rest of the premises and adds light. Private and public areas are rationally separated. The second part of the one-story building is occupied by a garage with technical rooms.

The original architectural solution diversifies the volumetric layout of a one-story cottage

It is convenient to use a multi-pitched roof with a large angle of inclination for the device attic rooms. This allows you to save materials due to the absence of an attic floor, as well as create an attractive exterior of the building.

A high multi-gable roof harmoniously looks on T-shaped buildings of a small area

The first floor is larger than the attic in area and is a public area: there is a living room, dining room, kitchen and only one bedroom. The living room has a second light.

In the planning of the first floor it is rationally used small area Houses

On the attic floor there are two small bedrooms and another bathroom. The space under the slopes is used for large built-in wardrobes.

Part of the attic floor is occupied by the second light of the living room

A multi-gable roof is a great option for a private developer. It allows you to rationally use the internal volume, has many design options. At correct installation frame and roofing such a roof will last for many years. At the same time, its attractive appearance both from the outside and from the inside makes it possible to develop the exteriors and interiors of buildings with high decorative and operational characteristics.

If the box of the house has many outbuildings, then the roof will have a complex shape. A multi-gable roof is a collection of several gable roof structures that cover individual elements boxes of the house and combined into a single roof. Such roofs allow you to equip dormers and balconies. The design contains several gables (more than three), which are called tongs. Gables are gable gables that are not separated from the wall of the box by a cornice. A multi-gable roof has a complex truss system, but aesthetically this design looks the most presentable, resembling the roof of a medieval castle.

Design features of a multi-gable roof

The traditional gable roof, which has two gables, is called a gable roof. If the roof structure has several elements of a gable roof, then it is called a multi-gable roof.

Multi-gable roofs are used in houses with extensions or for arranging attics, balconies, gables with windows

The design can combine conventional gable, dome, hip and semi-hip elements. The roof profile is determined by the shape of the box. The simplest form is the three-tong, which is built on boxes with one side extension.

Photo gallery: variety of types of multi-gable roofs

An additional gable element is used to decorate the dormer window Similar types of multi-gable roofs are developed in the construction of Chinese-style houses In this design, the presence of four gables is more due to the need for dormer windows than the shape of the frame of the house Roofs, which are the intersection of two gable structures at right angles, built over square boxes and called an envelope On a rectangular box without extensions, a dormer window can be formed with a small half-hip roof Multi-gabled roof combines a gable and half-hip design The combination of gable, dome and spire forms allows you to create a roof similar to a medieval castle A sequence of rectangular extensions is the base for multi-gabled roofs with several hip elements

Complex shaped boxes are usually built for respectable mansions. A multi-gable roof will emphasize the corresponding architectural style. The complexity and high cost of roofing will be just right for the scale of construction and design of such projects. Often axles of skates different parts multi-gable roofs are located relative to each other not at a right angle and form complex polyhedra. The configuration makes the design more refined and more difficult to calculate and assemble. Therefore, such work should be entrusted to experienced professionals.

In private construction, where houses with one extension predominate, three-gable roofs are built. In them, the main gable roof is combined with the gable roof of the extension located perpendicular to it. This simplified version is the most common, and all the features of a multi-gable truss structure will be considered in this example. It contains all the nodes that are used in the construction of more complex structures.

The difficulties of building a multi-gable roof lie in the difficulty of creating a drawing and making connecting nodes (valleys and ribs) between surfaces different elements roofs. The individual elements themselves are constructed according to the same principle by which ordinary gable or hip roofs are assembled.

Advantages and disadvantages of a multi-gable roof

In addition to external attractiveness, multi-gable roofs have practical advantages: frame strength and high ridge.

  1. Due to the large total area, the roof structure is heavy, so it requires high frame strength. The design is initially designed with increased strength characteristics.
  2. A high ridge allows you to equip a full-fledged living space under the roof.

The disadvantages of a multi-gable roof include the high cost and complexity of installation. Its construction will require much more materials than a gable roof of the same area. The plane of such a roof mainly consists of triangles and trapezoids, therefore, when cutting materials for roofing (plywood, tiles, metal profiles), a lot of waste will remain.

The weak point of the entire roof is the valleys. Internal obtuse corners at the joints between the surfaces of different roof elements will have a lower slope than the main slopes. Therefore, if the slope of the slopes is not made steep during the design, then snow and debris will accumulate on the valleys. This will bring a lot of inconvenience associated with the need for constant cleaning. A high ridge in multi-gable roofs is not only an aesthetic expediency, but also a solution to practical problems.

Rafter systems for multi-gable roofs

The skeleton of the frame of a multi-gable roof can be made of layered or hanging truss structures. Hanging rafters are mounted on small boxes that do not have partitions. They rest only on the Mauerlat along the perimeter of the box and are pulled together with puffs. Large boxes have inner bearing walls, which act as a support for uprights(grandmothers) installed under the ridge. Such truss systems are called layered.


Among the distinctive external elements of a multi-gable roof, a large number of ribs (pos. 3) and valleys (pos. 6) stand out

In the design of a multi-gable roof, the following details are distinguished:

  1. Roof slopes.
  2. Skate.
  3. Ribs. External corners formed at the intersection of adjacent planes.
  4. Pediment (tongue).
  5. Frontal board. Used to close the roof from the end.
  6. Valleys.
  7. Cornice overhang. At the ends, it is closed with a wind board. On the edge of the overhang, a drip is fixed to drain water.
  8. Apron around the chimney or ventilation pipes. It performs the function of sealing the gaps between the roof and the pipe wall.

The most complex elements of a multi-gable roof are the valley joints.

The following elements are present in the design of the frame of a multi-gable roof:

  1. Mauerlat. The beam fixed on the upper surface of the wall performs the main bearing function in the rafter system.
  2. Rafter. Form the plane of the slope.
  3. Horizontal floor beams. Stacked over rafter puffs.
  4. Ridge beam of the pediment viewing window.
  5. Valleys. They are formed from two rafters located on the line of intersection of the planes of adjacent surfaces of a multi-gable roof.
  6. Central ridge (ridge run). It is the upper connecting part of the rafters that form the main slopes.
  7. Vertical support posts under the ridge run (headstock).
  8. Crossbars (puffs). They are used to fix the angle of joining of the rafters and prevent them from spreading under the weight of the roof.
  9. Additional short posts under the rafters. They are used in roofs of a large area with long rafters to increase rigidity. They can serve as a frame for the formation of internal vertical surfaces of the attic.

Calculation of a multi-gable roof

When designing complex structures in which roof elements have different slope slopes, different ridge heights, it will be difficult for an inexperienced master to determine the principle of their calculation. In fact, each plane of a multi-gable roof is made up of triangles, so all calculations are done using the Pythagorean theorem.

Algorithm for calculating the main elements of a multi-gable roof

The usual three-gable roof can be represented as follows:


For convenient modeling and representation of the planes of a multi-gable roof, it is convenient to use CAD programs

The base frame of the two modules is designed in the same way as a conventional gable roof. The difference from standard schemes lies in the need to calculate the length of the valley (sloping rafters) and short rafters (spiders) going from the ridge to the valley.

The key elements in the above diagram are the height from the top of the wall to the ridge beam (H), the width of the main box (D 1) and extension (D 2), the angle of the roof slope of the main box (a 1) and side extension:


For example, there is a box 6 m wide. It has an extension 3 m wide. It is necessary to calculate the dimensions of the roof frame elements, the slope of which will be 50 0. We get the following values:


After calculating the working length of the rafter beam, the length of the cornice overhang is added to it. You can not make the rafters longer, but nail short bars (fillies) to their ends.

Then you need to calculate the load on the roof, which is directly proportional to its area. Depending on this parameter, additional racks, puffs are added to the scheme and are determined with the cross section of the beam for the roof frame.

Making a multi-gable roof

From the calculation principle described above, it can be seen that a multi-gable roof can consist of several gable structures with different ridge heights and slope slopes. The strength of the frame depends on right choice section of the beam and the reliability of the connecting nodes.

Typical truss system connections

Roof installation begins with the installation of the Mauerlat. It can be attached in the following ways:


Video: how to fix the Mauerlat on studs

Fixing floor beams

Floor beams can be installed as follows:


Rafter leg attachment

For firm fixation rafter legs use the following methods:


The rafters are attached to the Mauerlat in the same way as the main ones. It is important to remember that mounting angles are always installed on both sides of the timber. It is desirable to additionally fasten the joints with through dowels.

Video: how to cut the rafters at the right angle

Fastening rafters to the ridge

The rafter connection with the ridge is performed in the following ways:


Video: installation and fastening of rafters on a ridge beam

Racks are mounted quite simply:


The rafter rack, the slope rack is fixed with nails. To prevent its displacement, a stubborn bar is nailed on the rafter above the rack.

Video: how professionals saw down the rafters to the valley

Multi-gable roof frame installation technology

An experienced master roofer has a developed spatial imagination; in the process of work, he always keeps in mind a three-dimensional picture of the frame of the roof being mounted. This makes it easy to adhere to a single strategy in work and adjust the tactics of actions depending on the circumstances.


In order to confidently build a roof frame, it is necessary to have a good idea of ​​\u200b\u200bits design in space.

The construction of the roof frame can be divided into the following stages:


The assembly of the frame is completed by trimming the protruding ends of the rafters (or stuffing the filly) to form an even cornice overhang, stuffing on the ends of the strapping board, as well as the frontal board on the pediment.


Installation of the truss frame is completed by installing a strapping and frontal board

The binding board can be made from the crate after laying the waterproofing.

Waterproofing, installation of lathing, design of the valley and ridge

The waterproofing film is laid in horizontal strips from the eaves (from bottom to top) with an overlap of 150 mm.


For reliable waterproofing film strips must be spread horizontally and overlapped

Then a vertical thin rail (10–15 mm) of a counter-lattice is stuffed along the rafters, which will form a ventilation gap. The slats are cut along the outer edge of the valley, as a separate waterproofing carpet will be laid in this place.

Step horizontal lathing depends on the material of the roof. If in the future it will fit shingles, then under it it is necessary to fill a solid crate of OSB or plywood. In this case, a sparse horizontal crate is first stuffed, and sheet material is already attached on top of it. The first two lower and upper slats of the sparse crate are fastened with a minimum gap, and the rest are already nailed with the desired step.


Sparse lathing is used for laying plywood for soft tiles

The thickness of the plywood should not be too large, as this will affect the mass of the roof. 10–20 mm is enough, depending on the pitch of the crate. Sheets are attached with an offset and with a gap of 3 mm. This temperature gap will prevent swelling of the material during temperature changes.


Under the valley, separate bars are attached along the edges of the gutter

Waterproofing and finishing of the valley

Particular attention should be paid to the waterproofing of the valley. If it is planned to mount a rigid roof, then the installation of load-bearing elements is carried out at the stage of fastening the horizontal lathing.

The hard roof valley is designed as follows:



If the roof is covered with soft tiles, special strips are used as the upper valley, which are glued to bitumen

Making a valley in a soft roof:

  1. If the roof is made with soft tiles on a continuous crate, then sheets of plywood or OSB are joined exactly in the center of the valley. As the lower valley, a waterproofing bituminous strip 40 cm wide is used, which is glued to the bituminous mastic.
  2. Then the soft tile is mounted. In the area of ​​the valley, the roofing material should go onto the glued waterproofing strip by 10–15 cm on each side.

If you have experience, you can try to perform a seamless transition, but this does not always work.


If you have certain skills, you can perform a seamless joint on the valley

The easiest way to close the joint is to stick another strip, only of a smaller width.

Mounting the skate

Soft shingles are considered ideal for covering multi-gable roofs, as they allow for minimal waste and can easily bypass ribs, valleys, and ridges.

When using soft tiles on the ridge, it is necessary to equip the ventilation gap. This is easy to do: for such purposes, plastic skates are produced, which, after laying the roofing material on the slopes, must be nailed to the crate and already on top of it to complete the installation of the tiles.


To create a ventilation gap and give the upper joint the necessary shape, a plastic ridge is mounted under the soft tiles

When using rigid tiles with a ridge design, you will have to tinker with using a special kit of a ridge element, a seal, and side plugs.

Installation of the ridge on a hard roof is carried out as follows:


Video: designing a ridge with hard tiles

Even with such a superficial overview of the installation technology of a multi-gable roof, it becomes clear why it is considered the most difficult in the roofing business. For an inexperienced craftsman, this information will help to understand what difficulties specialists face, why roofers do the work in this way and not otherwise. It will not work to organize the installation of a multi-gable roof on your own with the help of friends and acquaintances, because in a team of specialists each employee knows all the subtleties of the process. It is due to this that fast and well-coordinated work and high-quality results are obtained.