Choosing the right roof design is a key step when building a steel shed. The two most common options — gable and mono-pitch — each have pros and cons. So, how do you know which one is right for your project?
This guide breaks down the key differences between gable and mono-pitch roofs. You’ll learn which is the best fit for your project based on important factors like durability, aesthetics, and cost.
What Is a Gable Roof?
A gable roof, also known as a dual-pitched roof, has two sloping sides that meet at a central ridge to create a triangular shape. This simple and versatile design is very popular for steel-framed sheds. Gable roofs work well with many architectural styles while providing excellent functionality.
Benefits of a Gable Roof
Gable roofs offer several practical advantages. Here’s why you should consider a gable roof for your steel shed project:
Superior Water Drainage
The steep slope of a gable steel shed roof allows rain and snow to slide off easily. They are highly effective at preventing water buildup and reducing the risk of leaks. Gable roofs are well-equipped to deal with wet autumn weather and snowy winters.
Versatility in Design
Gable roofs are highly adaptable. They look just as good on traditional barn-style sheds as on modern industrial buildings. Their flexibility makes them an excellent fit for most building types and design preferences.
Extra Storage Space
This is a key benefit for agricultural and industrial steel sheds. The triangular design of a gable roof provides higher ceilings and more overhead space. This gives you additional space for storing tall equipment or machinery.
Open Spans Free of Columns
A key advantage of gable roofs is their ability to support large open spans without internal columns. This is ideal for industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings where open floor plans are essential. By eliminating interior supports, gable roofs create wide, unobstructed spaces and offer greater flexibility in floor layouts, maximising usable space.
Challenges of Gable Steel Shed Roofing
While gable roofs offer many benefits, there are a few challenges to consider:
Wind Uplift Concerns
The shape of a gable roof can make it more vulnerable to wind uplift, particularly on large metal sheds. This is due to the pressure differences caused by airflow around the structure.
A corrugated shed roof needs to be well-anchored and braced to improve wind resistance. The use of a portal frame can also enhance the wind resistance of gable roofs by distributing wind loads evenly across the structure.
What Is a Mono-Pitch Roof?
A mono-pitch roof has a single, sloping surface. Unlike a gable roof with two sloping sides, a mono-pitch roof has just one incline. This gives it a more streamlined look. Mono-pitch roofs are popular for smaller steel sheds, workshops, garages and lean-tos.
Benefits of a Mono-Pitch Roof
There are several advantages to mono-pitch roofs. Here are the key benefits to consider:
Solar Panel Compatibility
If you want to add renewable energy features to your steel shed, a mono-pitch roof is a good option. Mono-pitch roofs have a single, continuous slope, making them ideal for installing solar panels. The roof can be angled to maximise sunlight exposure. In the UK, a 30 to 40-degree angle with a south-facing orientation is ideal for capturing the most sunlight and energy.
Modern Aesthetic
Aesthetics are an important consideration for any steel shed building project. And many people prefer the clean, minimalist design of a mono-pitch roof. The contemporary style works particularly well for commercial buildings and industrial settings.
Related reading: The Art of Architectural Engineering with Steel.
Challenges of Mono-Pitch Steel Shed Roofing
There are plenty of reasons why you might prefer a mono-pitch roof. However, there are a few key challenges you’ll need to consider
Potential Drainage Issues
The mono-pitch designs often have a gentler slope compared to a gable roof. This can make mono-pitch roofs less effective at water drainage. Proper planning and installation are essential. You need to make sure the roof has the right pitch and drainage systems to prevent water pooling and leaks.
Limited Span Capabilities
Another challenge is that mono-pitch roofs can’t achieve the same large spans as gable roofs. Mono-pitched roofs are generally used for smaller spans. As span sizes increase, the required steel sections become larger and more expensive. This is where dual-pitch roofs are introduced, allowing much greater spans with smaller steel sections, making them more efficient for larger structures.
>> Get a free consultation to help you choose between a gable or mono-pitch roof for your steel building project.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Gable and Mono-Pitch Roofs
Several important factors must be considered when choosing between a gable or mono-pitch roof for your steel-framed shed. Here’s what you need to consider to make the best decision for your build.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Gable roofs are typically more durable in extreme weather conditions, handling heavy rain and snow with ease. Their sloped design allows water and snow to drain quickly, minimising the risk of leaks or structural damage.
Mono-pitch roofs work well in most climates but may not be the best choice for areas with heavy snowfall or frequent storms. To ensure their effectiveness, the correct pitch and proper sealing during installation are essential.
Purpose of the Steel Shed
The intended use of your steel building is a crucial factor in choosing the right roof. Gable roofs are ideal for industrial or agricultural sheds that need extra vertical space. They are perfect for storing tall equipment or machinery. The high ceiling can also improve airflow within the structure.
Mono-pitch roofs are well-suited for smaller sheds and workshops. They offer a more compact structure with a more modern aesthetic.
Design Preferences
The roof design you choose will significantly impact the overall appearance of your steel shed. Gable roofs are a great choice if you’re going for a traditional look. They suit various settings and blend seamlessly with different architectural styles.
Mono-pitch roofs are the better option for a more modern and minimalist design. Their clean lines and simple structure create a sleek, contemporary appearance for your shed.
Cost Breakdown of Gable vs. Mono-Pitch Roofs
Cost is a key consideration in any construction project. Gable and mono-pitch roofs each come with their own cost factors, including upfront expenses and potential long-term savings.
Gable Roof Costs
While gable roofs may seem to have higher upfront costs due to their more complex design and additional materials, they often become more economical for larger buildings. As spans increase, gable roofs require smaller steel section sizes compared to mono-pitch designs, making them more cost-effective in the long run. The larger the building, the more cost-efficient a dual-pitch roof becomes, both in terms of materials and labour.
Mono-Pitch Roof Costs
Mono-pitch roofs are often more affordable to install on smaller buildings due to their simple design, using fewer materials and requiring less labour. However, as spans increase, the steel sections for mono-pitch roofs must be larger, driving up costs significantly. For smaller structures, mono-pitch roofs can still be a budget-friendly option, especially if you plan to install solar panels. The continuous slope allows for maximum sunlight exposure, potentially leading to energy savings over time.
Choosing the Right Roof for Your Steel Shed
There are a lot of factors to consider when you’re deciding on steel shed roofing. Aesthetics are important, but you also need to think about cost, climate, and functionality.
The best way to decide between a gable and a mono-pitch roof is to consult an expert. At Carnegie Steel Buildings, we specialise in crafting custom steel sheds to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for the extra storage and durability of a gable roof or the modern, streamlined look of a mono-pitch roof, our team is here to help.
>> Contact us today for a free consultation to learn which type of roof is best for your project.
Steel Shed Roofing FAQs
A gable roof has two sloping sides that form a triangular shape. This provides extra height and storage space inside the shed. It can also improve ventilation and make the structure more weather-resistant.
A mono-pitch roof features a single-sloping surface. This gives it a minimalist look and makes it easier to install. Mono-pitch roofs are well-suited for smaller steel-framed sheds.
While mono-pitch roofs are generally more affordable for smaller buildings due to their simpler design and use of fewer materials, gable roofs can be more cost-effective for larger structures. As building spans increase, the steel section sizes needed for mono-pitch roofs grow, making them more expensive. In contrast, gable roofs become more economical for larger spans, often requiring smaller steel sections and less material.
A distinct advantage of mono-pitch roofs is their potential to maximise solar panel efficiency when oriented to capture optimal sunlight, making them ideal for energy generation. Gable roofs, by contrast, offer additional ceiling height, which can aid in ventilation if needed. However, in terms of insulation and overall energy efficiency, both roof designs can perform equally well with the right materials and planning.
Yes, solar panels can be installed on both gable and mono-pitch roofs, though efficiency depends on roof orientation. A mono-pitch roof offers a continuous slope, ideal for maximising solar energy capture when oriented correctly. However, if your building’s orientation isn’t suitable for a mono-pitch setup, a gable roof may provide better options. With two slopes, a gable roof allows you to choose the side that receives the most sunlight, giving you more flexibility in optimising solar panel performance.
Both gable and mono-pitch roofs are suitable for industrial steel buildings. The right choice depends on your needs. Gable roofs are ideal for large buildings like warehouses or factories as they provide extra height, better ventilation, and more insulation.
Mono-pitch roofs are a good fit for smaller buildings. Their simple, single-slope design is quicker to build, reducing construction time and costs. A mono-pitch roof can also give your structure a more modern, streamlined appearance.
>> Book a free consultation now to explore which roof type is ideal for your steel building project.