Best Roof Overhang Styles For Log Cabins
Log cabin roof overhangs vary in design, size, structure, and materials to match the home’s architectural style and regional climate. The style of the overhang is typically modeled after the type of roof you want. A variety of styles are available that are distinct from each other for your log cabin.
Purpose And Benefits Of Roof Overhangs
A roof overhang is the part of a roof that extends past a log home’s exterior walls. It creates a ledge that provides functional and aesthetic advantages for diverse architectural styles. An overhang provides these benefits for a home or any building:
-
It protects part of a home’ exterior from rain, sleet, hail, snow, and sunlight. It prevents water from seeping into the structure which can cause moisture damage, mold, and foundation erosion.
-
An overhang can contribute to the overall style and aesthetics of a home or building and provide more curb appeal.
-
It provides some energy efficiency by keeping a home cooler during the hot months by blocking some of the direct sunlight from hitting windows and walls. This can reduce air conditioning usage and lower energy bills.
-
A roof overhang can include soffit vents that promote attic ventilation and reduce the risk of moisture buildup.
-
It can provide some shade for porches and walkways.
Log Cabin Roof Overhang Style 1: Gable
Gable roofs are the most common type of roofing system in the U.S. They provide a simple, classic triangular shape at the top. They resemble the type of roofs that we often see in books, magazines, online, and that children draw. They have these features:
-
A gable roof overhang complements the shape of two sloping roof sections that meet at the ridge.
-
It can be open to expose the structural rafters or trusses for a rustic look.
-
It can be enclosed with a soffit and fascia for a finished appearance.
-
Novice construction workers are very familiar with building this style.
Log Cabin Roof Overhang Style 2: Shed
Another type of log cabin roof that provides a rustic look is the shed overhang. It features a single, slanted roof overhang without a peak or gable. It is characterized by:
-
It drains water off the roof in one direction.
-
A shed roof is simple in design and easy to construct.
-
It allows for customization to cover specific areas like windows and entrances.
-
An extended overhang can cover much of a porch or outdoor living area.
-
A shed roof is ideal for smaller log cabins.
Log Cabin Roof Overhang Style 3: Hip
A hip roof is the second most common style of residential construction after the gable style. The overhang extends to all four sides of the roof instead of just two. It features sloping sides that meet at a ridge at the top and has these characteristics:
-
It is built in a unique pyramid-style shape that offers more stability.
-
This overhang provides better protection against harsh weather conditions.
-
It can be open or boxed in with soffits and fascia board.
-
It offers less attic space and is more expensive than a gable roof.
Log Cabin Roof Overhang Style 4: Mansard
Some roof styles and their overhangs are more popular in certain regions, and this is true of the mansard roof in southeastern states. It is a hipped-gambrel roof that slopes on every side of a log cabin. It has these features:
-
It combines the double angle of a gambrel with the four-sided style of a hipped roof.
-
The overhangs are formed by the steep lower slope of the roof.
-
The overhangs extend more from the outer walls than other styles.
-
This style is typically closed with soffits and fascia board instead of open.
-
It offers more useful living space and offers options for expansion.
Log Cabin Roof Overhang Style 5: Gambrel
A gambrel roof overhang is popular for cabins and barns. It is created with two slopes on each side, with the lower slope made steeper than the upper one. It is described as:
-
It reminds us of a type of barn-like style construction.
-
The lower overhang extends further out from the cabin.
-
It repels rain, sleet, and snow well compared to some other styles.
-
It has been popular in Dutch colonial homes.
-
A gambrel roof offers more interior space and headroom.
Now you know more about common roof styles and their overhangs. Choose the style you like best that fits your log cabin needs and discuss it thoroughly with your contractor. Learn more about the pros and cons of these roof structures in this helpful article.
English
Arabic
Français
Español
Português
Deutsch
Türkçe
Dutch
Italiano
Russian