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Mansard Roof - Definition and Purpose

Mansard floor and roof
Mansard roof

A mansard or mansard roof (also known as a French roof or curb roof) is a four-sided gambrel-style hip roof with two slopes on each side, the lower of which is punctured by dormer windows and is steeper than the upper. The steep roof with windows adds an extra floor of habitable space (a garret) and lowers the roof's overall height for a given number of habitable storeys. When viewed from close proximity to the building, the upper slope of the roof may not be visible from street level.

There are a few other characteristics that distinguish a mansard roof. Dormers, or windows that protrude from the roof, are a common feature. This allows architects to convert the attic space into a bedroom or other livable space by bringing light into the space. One of the greatest advantages of the mansard roof is the ability to convert the attic into living space. It's also worth noting that the lower part of the mansard roof can be straight, convex (curving or flaring outward), or concave after the bend (curving or flaring inwards).

On two opposite sides, the Mansard roof has a similar slope design. The Mansard roof, on the other hand, has the same sloping style on both sides. On the remaining faces of the gambrel roof, there are no slopes. Aside from the additional slopes, Mansard roofs have a distinct design element that sets them apart from traditional gambrel roofs.

The Benefits of a Mansard Roof 

1. More Attic Space

Due to the almost vertical bottom slope, Mansard roofs offer significantly more attic space than a standard Gable or Hip roof. A Mansard roof's loft area does not have to sacrifice space and can easily accommodate a master bedroom if necessary.

Furthermore, the use of dormer windows along the entire length of the bottom slope allows for more natural light to enter the building, increasing the sense of space even more.

2. Expandability is easier

The almost vertical nature of the bottom slope makes adding more floors on top easier. In comparison to more popular roofing styles like Gable or Hip roofs, the bottom slope allows for more flexibility.

Using a Mansard roof makes perfect sense if you currently do not have the budget to add more floors to your house but want or need the flexibility to expand your house in the future.

3. Aesthetic Worth

Although appearances are subjective, there is no denying that Mansard roofs have an elegant design, owing to their prominence in Renaissance French architecture. Furthermore, in areas where they are not commonly found, this roofing style will look more sophisticated and, if properly executed, may even be a head turner.

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