Many people have heard the terms "gable" or even "gable vent" thrown around in conversations about houses. However, that does not mean they actually know what they mean. Here is a brief guide containing the basics about gables and gable vents.
A gable is the section of a wall between the edges of a sloping roof. This portion is typically triangular in shape, although the angles and details of this shape depend on the structural system that was used in the design of the home. Generally speaking, it is the type of roof in use that determines the shape of the gable.
There are two basic types of gables used in today's architecture. The traditional gable is the most common variety, and features smooth, straight rooflines.
The other less popular kind of gable is the crow-step gable. While this type still forms the symmetrical gable triangle, the roof lines are in the shape of steps instead of one straight line. Crow-step gables are typically found on homes which boast a Southwestern or European style.
The higher the pitch of a gable roof, the more likely it is to suffer wind damage. As the slope of a roof rises, its resistance factor also increases, putting the roof right in harm's way. If you live in an area that is prone to tornados or hurricanes, your gable roof should be reinforced with extra structural support to protect against wind damage.
Gables have gone by many different names over time. In classic Greek and Roman architecture, a gable was called
a tympanum. Even back then, the tympanum was a popular site for decoration, and many tympana feature beautifully-detailed, intricate, and expensive carvings.
Today, the gables on many homes feature decoration as well. However, instead of expensive carvings, today's gables are typically dressed up with round gable vents. Gable vents are louvers that are installed on the top of the gable, adding a quaint charm to your home.
Although round gable vents are an excellent decorative addition to your home, they also serve a practical purpose. These vents allow for air to easily pass through the attic, which drastically improves the circulation in your attic. Bettering your attic circulation not only lowers your air conditioning costs, but also protects your roof, shingles, and possessions from damage due to heat and humidity in your attic.
Gable vents come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, so you can choose the one which best suits the look of your house and the needs of your attic. Several different shapes of gable vent options between which you can decide include rectangular, octagonal, hexagonal, triangular, and round gable vents. You also can choose between wooden, plastic, or metal vents.
The history of the gable roof is rich, detailed, and interesting. Even the ancient Greeks and Romans had gables, and they too saw the excellent potential for decoration a gable provided. Although most people today do not carve elaborate drawings into their gables, the gable vent functions as the modern-day version of this ornamentation that also serves a practical and beneficial purpose.
Author Resource:-
Todd Arend is a freelance writing professional whose expertise covers a variety of areas, including patio and backyard furniture, landscaping and design. He regularly writes about round gable vents and outdoor picnic tables.
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