A gambrel roof is characterized by:
Correct Answer
A) Two slopes on each side, the lower one steeper
A conventional gambrel roof has two slopes on each of two opposing sides, with the lower slope steeper than the upper. This identifies roof geometry, not its covering, engineering capacity, age or condition.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option A is correct because a conventional gambrel roof has two slopes on each of two opposing sides, with the lower slope steeper than the upper. This profile creates more usable space under the roof than a simple gable. The term identifies roof geometry, not covering, age or condition.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: A single slope across the entire structure
Option B, a single slope across the entire structure, describes a shed roof. A gambrel has two slopes on each of two sides, not one slope overall.
Option C: Four equal slopes meeting at a point
Option C, four equal slopes meeting at a point, describes a pyramid-style hip roof. A gambrel has slopes on two opposing sides with a steeper lower pitch.
Option D: A flat surface with a parapet around it
Option D, a flat surface with a parapet around it, describes a flat roof with a parapet wall. A gambrel is a pitched roof with two slopes per side.
Gambrel looks like a barn
Picture a classic red barn: two slopes on each side, the lower one steeper. That is a gambrel.
How to use: Use this image to pick out the gambrel among roof style choices.
Exam Tip
Distinguish gambrel (two slopes on two sides) from mansard (two slopes on four sides) and hip (slopes on all four sides).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Confusing a gambrel roof with a mansard roof
- -Calling a single-slope shed roof a gambrel
- -Treating the roof style label as a statement about roof condition
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests recognition of roof styles. A gambrel roof is defined by two slopes on each of two opposing sides, with the lower slope steeper than the upper, the profile often seen on barns.
Background Knowledge
Common roof styles include gable, hip, shed, flat, mansard and gambrel. A gambrel has two slopes on two sides, while a mansard has two slopes on all four sides. Appraisers describe roof style as part of the improvement description, separately from roof covering and condition.
Real-World Application
An appraiser describes a Dutch Colonial home with a gambrel roof that allows a nearly full-height second floor. The appraiser notes roof style in the improvement description and separately reports the covering and its observed condition.
More Property Description Questions
A local zoning ordinance allows these maximum densities: R-1, 4 units per acre; R-2, 8 units per acre; R-4, 20 units per acre; PUD (with approval), 12 units per acre. Which category allows the highest density?
What design advantage is commonly associated with post-and-beam construction?
A hypothetical local ordinance permits either a single-family house or duplex on the site. The existing single-family house complies with all current rules. Which statement is supported?
A zoning variance allowing a reduced side setback is granted for a parcel. After the parcel is sold, who generally holds the benefit of the variance, subject to its conditions?
Under ANSI Z765-2021 as applied by Fannie Mae, a staircase runs from the second floor down to the first floor. Its area is counted as part of:
Under ANSI Z765-2021, as Fannie Mae requires for a detached house, where are exterior dimensions taken on a brick-veneer wall?
A building's HVAC system would be classified as which type of building component?
A home on a large tract is valued at $620,000 including the land it needs. The remaining excess land could be sold separately and contributes a net $95,000 after separation costs. What is the total indicated value?
A covered sale concerns a residence built in 1965. Which hazard is the subject of the federal pre 1978 housing disclosure rule, without assuming its actual presence?
Which site characteristic is most likely to reduce site utility by restricting where a typical dwelling can be placed?
People Also Study
Real Estate Market
13.6% of exam
Land or Site Valuation
4.5% of exam
Sales Comparison Approach
16.4% of exam
Cost Approach
13.6% of exam
Income Approach
8.2% of exam