6 Types of Barn Roofs and Which To Choose

When you’re planning to build a barn, every detail matters, from the foundation to the rafters. One of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right roof. The part of your barn not only protects your livestock, equipment, and supplies from the elements but also defines the barn’s overall style and functionality.

With so many options available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you explore the most common types of barn roofs, helping you decide which to choose.

1. Gable Roof

Gable roofs are perhaps the most classic and recognizable roof style, featuring a simple triangular shape with two sides sloping down from a central ridge. This straightforward design has been a staple in construction for centuries for good reason. Its simplicity makes it cost-effective to build, as it requires fewer materials and less complex labor than other designs. The steep pitch is excellent at shedding rain and snow, helping prevent water damage and structural strain in areas with moderate to heavy precipitation.

However, the traditional gable roof design offers limited overhead space, which can be a drawback if you need a spacious loft for hay storage or other uses. These roofs can also be less resistant to high winds compared to other styles, particularly if you didn’t brace the framing properly. Still, a gable roof is an ideal, all-around choice for general-purpose barns in regions with moderate weather conditions.

2. Gambrel Roof

When you picture a traditional American barn, you’re likely thinking of a gambrel roof. This iconic design features two slopes on each side of the ridge, with the lower slopes being closer to vertical than the upper ones. The primary advantage of this style is the tremendous amount of usable space it creates in the loft or upper story. This makes it perfect for farmers who need to store large quantities of hay or want to incorporate living quarters into their barn design.

The trade-off for all that extra space is increased complexity and cost. A gambrel roof requires more materials and a more intricate framing system, making it more expensive to construct. The multiple angles and joints also make it more susceptible to leaks and may require more frequent maintenance over its lifespan. This roof is best suited for those who prioritize maximizing storage space and appreciate the quintessential barn aesthetic.

3. Monitor Roof

A monitor roof is another classic roof type for barns. It offers a unique, highly functional design characterized by a raised center section that runs along the length of the roof ridge. This raised portion, often lined with windows or vents, is the defining feature. The main benefit of a monitor roof is superior ventilation and natural light. The windows allow sunlight to flood the interior, while the vents let hot air escape, creating a cooler, more comfortable environment for livestock.

This design is particularly beneficial for horse barns or any agricultural building in a hot climate. The improved airflow helps maintain a healthy atmosphere for animals by reducing moisture and heat buildup. The downside is that the complex structure leads to higher construction costs and a longer build time. If your priorities are ventilation and light, and your budget allows, a monitor roof is an excellent investment.

4. Saltbox Roof

The saltbox roof is an asymmetrical design with two slopes of different lengths. One side features a long, gentle slope, while the other is short and steep. This distinctive shape gives it a unique character and offers practical benefits, especially in windy regions. During construction, you can orient the long, low-sloping side to face the prevailing winds, allowing gusts to pass over the structure with minimal resistance. This makes it a very stable and wind-resistant option.

The primary disadvantage of a saltbox roof is the limited interior space. The asymmetrical design reduces the potential for a large, uniform loft area. Because it’s a less common style for barns, finding a builder with experience in this type of construction might also be a challenge. Despite that, a saltbox roof will still be an excellent choice for those in windy climates or for anyone looking to give their barn a distinctive, colonial-inspired appearance.

5. Hip Roof

A hip roof is a highly stable design with four slopes, all coming down toward each wall from a central point, or ridge. Because of this, it doesn’t have any vertical ends. This four-sided construction makes it inherently stronger and more resistant to high winds, as the sloped sides help brace the structure against lateral forces. This makes it an outstanding choice for barns in hurricane-prone regions or other areas exposed to extreme weather.

The stability of a hip roof comes at a price, though. It is one of the most complex and expensive roof types to build, requiring more materials and skilled labor. The inward slope on all four sides also reduces the amount of usable interior space in the attic or loft compared to a gambrel or even a gable roof. For those in high-wind areas where durability is the top concern, the investment in a hip roof can provide invaluable peace of mind.

6. Flat Roof

Flat roofs have practically no slope, appearing almost horizontal to the naked eye. This design is often associated with modern or commercial architecture, but it still has uses in the agricultural sector. Flat roofs are generally easier and less expensive to construct than more complex pitched roofs because they require fewer structural materials.

Most notably, though, the nearly flat surface presents significant challenges with drainage. Without a proper slope, rainwater and melting snow can pool on the roof, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage. For this reason, flat roofs are not ideal for areas with heavy rain or snow. They are best suited for barns in arid climates or for those seeking a distinctly modern design where weather is not a major concern.

How to Choose the Right Roof for Your Needs

With a better understanding of the types of barn roofs available, it’s time to choose which is right for you. Picking your ideal roof comes down to a few key factors:

• Assess Your Climate: Consider your local weather patterns. Do you get heavy snow, high winds, or intense heat? Your roof needs to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it.
• Define Your Purpose: Think about how you’ll use the barn. Do you need a massive hayloft for storage, or is superior ventilation for livestock your top priority?
• Set Your Budget: Your budget will influence your choice of materials and the complexity of the design. Balance your upfront construction costs with potential long-term maintenance expenses.
• Prioritize Durability: Consider how much maintenance you’re willing to perform. Some roof types require more upkeep than others to ensure their longevity.
• Match Your Style: Finally, decide on the look you want to achieve. Whether you prefer a timeless, traditional barn or a sleek, modern structure, there’s a roof style to match your vision.

No matter which roof you choose, partnering with an experienced builder is key to ensuring your barn is built to last. If you decide to partner with Arco Building Systems for your farm building, we’d recommend a gable, monitor, or saltbox roof. These work best for most metal agricultural structures.