A “gambrel roof” or Dutch roof is a normally symmetrical fabric, with two slopes on each side. The upper slope is located at a shallow angle, while the lower slope is steeper.
This type of roof has the advantages of a sloped roof, while helping to maximize the interior space within the upper floor of the building, shortening what would otherwise be a high ceiling.
This type of roof is often confused with the mansard roof, as it has the same basic shape. The cross section of the Dutch roof is similar to that of a dormer, but the Dutch roof has vertical ends rather than hipped at the corners of the building. The sloping roof protrudes from the facade, while the mansard roof generally does not.