Understanding Roof Types: Calculating Gable vs. Hip Roof Percentages (How This Can Affect Your Insurance Premiums)
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If you’re in the market for a new home, understanding the structure and style of the roof can be as important as any other aspect of your possible new home. Today, we’re going to look at how to tell which type of roof your home has and look at how to calculate the percentages of gable versus hip roof sections on your home. This can not only aid you in making informed buying decisions but also in understanding the implications for maintenance, insurance, and aesthetics.
Types Of Roofs
Gable Roofs - are easily identified by their triangular shape, which is formed by two roof sections sloping in opposite directions and meeting at a ridge. The end wall of the house forms a triangle, which is the gable.
Hip Roofs - have slopes on all four sides that come together at the top to form a ridge. This design allows for more stability, especially in high-wind areas, and offers a different aesthetic appeal.
Calculating Roof Percentages
Understanding the percentage of each roof type on a potential home can help with aesthetics, functionality, and even insurance costs, as some insurers may favor the hip style over the gable style due to durability and resistance to weather damage.
Step 1: Visual Inspection and Measurement
Identify Roof Sections: Start by visually inspecting the roof to identify which parts are gable and which are hip. You may need to walk around the house to get a complete view.
Measure Dimensions: Measure the length and width of each distinct roof section. For accuracy, you might need a tape measure, drone, or ask for architectural drawings if available.
Step 2: Calculate Area
Gable and Hip Roof Areas: For each gable and hip section, calculate the area. Since both types can be approximated to rectangular sections (ignoring the triangle of the gable for simplicity), the area can be calculated by multiplying the length by the width of each section.
Area = Length x Width
Step 3: Determine Percentages
Gable Roof Percentage: Add together the areas of all gable sections. Divide this number by the total roof area and then multiply by 100 to find the percentage of the roof that is gable.
Gable Percentage = Total Gable / Total Roof Area) x 100
Hip Roof Percentage: Similarly, add together the areas of all hip sections, divide by the total roof area, and multiply by 100 to find the hip percentage.
Hip Percentage = (Total Hip Area / Total Roof Area) x 100
Some Helpful Tips
Use Technology: Consider using drone photography for accurate measurements without needing to physically access the roof.
Consult Professionals: If you’re unsure about your calculations or the implications of the roof style, consult with a professional roofing contractor or a home inspector who can provide clarity and ensure accuracy.
Insurance Implications: Check with insurance providers on how roof style impacts your rates. In Florida, a hip roof might lower insurance costs due to its enhanced stability and wind resistance. We understand that insurance companies, as of now, are requiring that a home have less than 10% gable roof compared to hip roof on their home in order to receive maximum possible discounts on their premiums.
Bottom Line
Understanding the composition of your potential home’s roof can significantly impact your decision-making process. Whether it’s the aesthetic appeal, the maintenance considerations, or the potential insurance benefits, knowing how to calculate the percentage of gable versus hip roofs puts you a step ahead as a homebuyer. Armed with this knowledge, you can make more informed decisions and discussions when purchasing your home or planning for future renovations.
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Feel free to call us if you have questions at 407-319-4608. You may also schedule your inspection or find additional information on our website.