The roof style you choose for your shed isn’t just about looks—it affects everything from interior storage space to ease of construction and long-term durability. In this guide, we compare the three most popular shed roof styles: Gable, Gambrel, and Saltbox, so you can confidently pick the one that fits your needs.
👉 Looking for shed plans that include all major roof types? Get a complete set with step-by-step diagrams and full material lists: View the full shed plan collection here
🏠 Gable Roof: The Classic All-Purpose Style
What It Looks Like:
A simple pitched roof with two equal sloping sides meeting at a ridge in the middle.
Best For:
- Most DIYers, especially beginners
- Traditional home or yard aesthetics
- Easy and cost-effective construction
Pros:
- Straightforward framing for quick builds
- Good water runoff in all climates
- Allows for modest attic-style overhead storage
Cons:
- Limited upper-level storage compared to gambrel
- More common appearance if you want something unique
✅ Find beginner-friendly gable roof plans here
🛖 Gambrel Roof: The High-Capacity Storage Hero
What It Looks Like:
A barn-style roof with two slopes on each side—the lower slope is steeper than the upper slope.
Best For:
- Homeowners needing maximum interior space
- Adding overhead shelves or a loft
- Rustic or farmhouse-style yards
Pros:
- Lots of vertical room for attic or tool racks
- Distinctive, classic American look
- Great for dual-purpose sheds (storage + hobby)
Cons:
- Slightly more complex framing than gable
- May require extra roofing material and cuts
✅ View gambrel-style shed plans with full diagrams and material lists here
🏡 Saltbox Roof: The Stylish Space Saver
What It Looks Like:
An asymmetrical roof with one long slope and one short slope—visually distinct and functional.
Best For:
- Building sheds along fences or property lines
- Design-conscious homeowners
- Balancing rain runoff and wall height
Pros:
- More visual interest than standard gable roofs
- Excellent wind resistance with a low profile
- Good water drainage
Cons:
- Uneven interior wall heights
- More planning needed for window and shelf placement
✅ Find stylish saltbox shed plans for tight yard spaces here
Quick Roof Comparison Chart
| Roof Type | Ease of Build | Storage Space | Aesthetic | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gable | ✅ Easy | Moderate | Traditional | General-purpose DIY builds |
| Gambrel | ☑️ Moderate | High | Rustic | Storage-heavy or dual-use sheds |
| Saltbox | ☑️ Moderate | Moderate | Modern | Narrow yards & style-conscious |
Real User Picks: Why They Chose Their Roof Style
🧰 Eric, Michigan (Gable Roof)
“I’d never built anything before. The gable roof plan was super simple and gave me just enough overhead space.”
🪚 Diane, Ohio (Gambrel Roof)
“I needed space for my garden tools and wanted to hang bikes inside. The gambrel roof was perfect for adding storage above.”
🪴 Olivia, Washington (Saltbox Roof)
“The saltbox worked great against my fence line. It looks modern and doesn’t block sunlight in my yard.”
Need More Help With Planning?
Whether it’s roof style, sizing, or layout, this detailed guide walks you through the entire shed selection process:
✅ Read the full DIY shed planning guide
Final Word: Choose the Roof That Works for Your Space
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to shed roofs. Whether you value ease of construction, overhead storage, or curb appeal, the right roof plan makes the whole project more satisfying.
👉 Start with a plan that matches your vision—get dozens of gable, gambrel, and saltbox options in this full shed plan bundle