A mansard roof, also known as a French or curb roof, is a four-sided, gambrel-style roof with two slopes on each side. This roof style traces back to the 17th century France and was later adapted in American architecture, giving homes a Tudor or cottage look.
But is a mansard roof good for Minnesota weather? In this post, we’ll explain what a mansard roof is, its pros and cons, design considerations, and where to find the best roofer in Mankato to execute this on your property!
What is a mansard roof?
A mansard roof is a French roof style that has four sides and two slopes. It has a steep-sloped lower portion and a low-sloped upper portion that creates additional living space on your home’s top floor. The first slope is very steep, it’s almost vertical, and the second one is less visible and located on top of the roof, leading to the ridge.
There are four main types of mansard roofs: straight, convex, concave, and S-shaped. This refers to the shape of the lower portion of the mansard roof.
While it has a flat edge, mansard roofs don’t have a consistent pitch all the way up as opposed to standard gable or hip roof styles.
Fast Facts about Mansard Roofs
- It has a four-sided design with two slopes on each side.
- Adds 20% to 50% more space beneath your roofline than pitched roofs
- Popular Second Empire architecture during the 19th century
- This historical roof design is used for a portion of the famous Louvre
- Fun fact: the original McDonald’s building design sports iconic mansard roofs!
A brief history of mansard roofs
The mansard roof history traces back to as early as the 16th century, but it was popularized and named after the 17th-century architect François Mansart. Mansart used this roof style on several Paris hotels and chateaus, including Maisons, Balleroy, and Blois.
Mansard roofs dominated the Second Empire roof styles during the second half of the 19th century. During this period, the mansard roof style was solidified in the extension design for the Louvre in the 1850s. This is also the time when mansard roofs were introduced to America, inspired by Napoleon III’s Parisian renovations.
Nowadays, you can see mansard roofs on historic Mankato homes or other Midwestern architecture all over the United States.
Key design features of mansard roofs
The mansard roof design has distinct features that make it stand out from other roof styles. The following design features give mansard roofs a timeless and unique appeal:
1. Double slope
Mansard roofs have two slopes on each of their four sides. The lower slope adds more vertical space to your home while the upper slope is flatter and less visible.
This steep slope roof style is the defining design of mansard roofs, which can add up to 33% of extra space on your home.
2. Mansard roof dormers
Dormer windows are often built into the steep lower slope of mansard roofs. It allows natural light and boosts ventilation in the house, which is crucial if you’re going to use the upper living space regularly.
Aside from that, dormer windows on mansard roofs add an aesthetic break on the roofline to make it more visually appealing.
3. Mansard attic space
The nearly vertical walls of mansard roofs create nearly vertical space for your attic, giving you more interior space than traditional pitched roofs.
If you have an unused attic space, you can opt for a mansard roof for your attic conversion. This roof style allows you to use your attic space for additional rooms or storage without increasing your home’s footprint.
4. Decorative material
Originally, 19th-century French mansard roofs were made of natural slate. Nowadays, modern Mansard roof in Mankato uses patterned shingles and cedar shakes for a decorative touch.
Others also use metal roofing materials, such as zinc or steel, for a sleek look on their mansard roofs.
5. Cornices and moldings
Mansard roofs are known for their decorative moldings that crown the wall installed on the steeper, lower slope of the roof. These detailed cornices are often found on Second Empire-style buildings to create an elegant transition where the roof’s eaves meet the house.
Pros and cons of mansard roofs
Mansard roofs may have a timeless elegance, but they also have a share of disadvantages. If you’re interested in this roof style, you should know the following mansard roof advantages and disadvantages first:
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Pros of mansard roofs
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Cons of mansard roofs
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Adds a huge, usable attic space
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Complicated to build
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Elegant style that stands out
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Expensive to install
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Better ventilation with dormer windows
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Can be costly to maintain
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Allows more natural light in with dormer windows
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Higher potential for leaks due to multiple angles and slopes
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Enhances a home’s curb appeal
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Not suitable for heavy snow
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Where mansard roofs make sense in Minnesota
Although mansard roofing in Minnesota could be challenging due to our local climate, it’s still viable through the following applications:
Historic neighborhoods and areas
Did you know that several properties in Minnesota feature French-inspired architecture? Summit Avenue and the Lowertown Historic District in Saint Paul have buildings with mansard-style rooflines.
Good examples are the Marshall-Winter-Dean House, Norman Kittson House, and the famous F. Scott Fitzgerald House, all on Summit Avenue.
Summit Avenue in Minnesota has many French-inspired buildings built after World War I, when American servicemen returned home with a taste for chateau-style architecture. The same historic neighborhood is also known for its stretch of Victorian-era homes.
You can also see mansard roofs in public buildings and historic residences in Hastings and Red Wing.
Custom or upscale home remodels
Mansard roofs are also a good option if you want to add extra living space in your Minnesota home. It allows you to expand your interior square footage without needing to perform any outward expansion due to zoning limits or your lot size.
Mansard roofs can be a good investment for your luxury home since they will make your property stand out. In fact, affluent neighborhoods, such as Edina, Kenwood, Minnetonka, and Wayzata, have homes with mansard roofs.
Urban and suburban areas
Neighborhoods in Saint Paul and Minneapolis tend to have smaller lot sizes, making it impossible to expand your home’s footprint. But with mansard roofing in Minnesota, you can expand your living space vertically by utilizing the attic space or building an additional floor.
Moreover, suburban neighborhoods like St. Cloud and Southside have houses with mansard roofs fitted with semi-circular dormers.
Homeowners seeking a historic appeal
If you’re aiming for a classic European or vintage look for your home, the distinct style of mansard roofs might be what you’re looking for. It’s an aesthetic choice when restoring old properties or you want to build a new home with a historic appeal.
The Second Empire architectural style was popular in Minnesota during the late 1800s. Many homeowners want to preserve or recreate this historic feel by upgrading to mansard roofs.
In fact, homeowners in Mac-Groveland, Kenwood, and Summit Avenue choose mansard roofs to match their neighborhoods’ architectural style.
Thinking of getting a mansard roof for your Mankato home? Let’s talk!
If you’re interested in mansard roofs or want to know if it’s a good fit for your home, reach out to us at BoelterIsBetter. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get a free estimate for your new roof.
Construction & maintenance considerations for mansard roofs
1. Mansard roof cost
Mansard roof cost in Mankato, MN often ranges from $16,000 to $40,000 for a 2,000 sq. ft. home. The cost can also range from $30,000 to $60,000, depending on the complexity of your mansard roof design. Take note that the complexity of mansard roofs adds to labor, which accounts for 40% to 60% of your total roof installation cost.
In contrast, a standard asphalt shingle for the same home size typically costs $7,000 to $12,000 to replace or install.
Before considering a mansard roof for your home, make sure that you factor in not just the upfront installation cost, but also the ongoing mansard roof maintenance.
2. Material selection
When it comes to Minnesota roofing, choosing a weather-resistant material is crucial for the longevity of your new roof. Below are some of the widely used materials for mansard roofs and how they fare in the Minnesota climate:
Asphalt shingles
Modern asphalt shingles are rated for cold climates and wind uplift, which are common challenges in Minnesota. Unlike three-tab shingles, modern architectural shingles can offer better durability for your mansard roof.
However, when used for mansard roofs, asphalt shingles are prone to ice dams at dormer junctions or roof transitions. It may also require frequent maintenance and replacement.
Slate tiles
Slate is the authentic mansard roof material. It has a natural weight that will give your mansard roof a strong frame, not to mention that slate tiles are decorative and have a longer lifespan than shingles alone.
However, installing slate mansard roofs is labor-intensive, which means your new roof will be costly. At the same time, repairs for this kind of slate will also be complex due to the steep slope and dormer installation.
Cedar shakes
If you want a vintage appeal to your mansard roof, you’ll never go wrong with the rustic appearance of cedar shakes. This material has natural insulating properties, which makes it a good option for the cold Minnesota winters.
However, the steep slope and dormers of mansard roofs may harbor moss and moisture easily.
Metal roofing
Metal roofing is lightweight, making it an easy choice for mansard roofs with very steep slopes. It also sheds snow better than other roofing materials and can be fabricated to mimic the appearance of slate.
The biggest downside with metal mansard roofs is that they will be noisy during hailstorms. It also requires insulation for energy efficiency.
3. Snow load
Minnesota experiences heavy snowfall, with an average of 35 to 70 inches of snow per year. Mansard roofs should be designed to handle this massive snowfall to ensure that it has the structural strength to support the added weight.
At the same time, Minnesota roofs are exposed to frequent freeze-thaw cycles. It’s important that your mansard roof is designed with good ventilation and snow shedding abilities to avoid ice dams.
4. Water drainage concerns
The transitions between the steep lower slope and flat upper slope of your mansard roof are prone to water intrusion if not sealed well. Water can also pool in these areas due to snowmelt or heavy rains, which will increase the risk of leaks in your home.
At the same time, penetrations, such as dormer windows, are also vulnerable to leaks. Make sure these areas are sealed properly to handle water runoff without leaking.
5. Complex framing
Mansard roofs have a more complex frame than standard pitched roofs. And due to the Minnesota climate, it will also need additional reinforcements to withstand high winds and heavy snowfall.
For this, you need to hire a licensed Minnesota roofing company to install your mansard roof. Local contractors have knowledge of the local climate, which means they can choose the appropriate material, insulation, and installation method that suits your home.
Alternatives to a mansard roof
While mansard roofs are elegant, there are also other roofing types that can match up to its appearance. Below, we created a roof style comparison in MN to help you know how mansard roofs fare with other popular options:
Gambrel roof vs mansard roof
The biggest difference between mansard vs gambrel roofs is the number of sides. Mansard roofs have four sides while gambrel roofs have two sides, each of which has two slopes.
Gambrel roofs are often used in barn-style homes. If you’re aiming for a farmhouse appeal for your home, then a gambrel roof might be a better option than a mansard. Besides, gambrel roofing has a simpler framing and installation than its mansard counterpart.
Hip roof vs mansard roof
Both hip and mansard roofs have slopes on each of their four sides. The difference is that hip roofs only have one consistent slope that stretches from the ridge down to their eaves.
Compared to mansard roofs, hip roofs have less attic space due to their uniform slopes. The upside is that hip roofs are much easier and affordable to install than a mansard roof.
Gable roof vs mansard roof
Gable roofs have a pitched design with two slopes meeting at a ridge. This design means less attic space for you, which is the most significant advantage of a mansard roof.
Due to their vertical ends, gable roofs are less durable against wind uplift. Still, it has excellent drainage that could make it a better choice over mansard roofing. On top of that, gable roofs are easy to install, affordable, and low maintenance – perfect if you’re re-roofing on a tight budget.
To sum it up, here’s a comparison table of mansard vs. gambrel vs. hip vs. gable roof
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Feature
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Mansard roof
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Gambrel roof
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Hip roof
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Gable roof
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Shape
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Four sides with two slopes each
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Two sides with two slopes each
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Four sides with one slope each
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Two sloping sides
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Additional space
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Full additional floor or attic space
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Extra attic space
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Limited additional space
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Very limited attic space
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Drainage abilities
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Excellent
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Good
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Excellent
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Good
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Snow shedding
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Low due to the almost-flat upper slope
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Good
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Very good
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Good
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Wind resistance
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High
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Moderate
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High
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Low
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Installation complexity
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Very complex
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Moderate
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Moderate
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Simple
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Maintenance
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High
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Moderate
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Lower
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Low
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Cost
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High
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Moderate
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Moderate to high
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Low to moderate
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Whether you’re planning to invest in a mansard, gambrel, hip, or gable roof, BoelterIsBetter is the only roofing company you need. We specialize in various roofing styles, specifically designed and installed to match the challenging Minnesota climate.
Why choose BoelterisBetter for complex roof designs?
If you’re looking for a Mankato roofing expert, BoelterIsBetter could be the local contractor you’re searching for. We provide professional exterior services, including roof repair, replacement, and installation in Mankato and Southern Minnesota.
Here’s why homeowners trust us for their new roofs:
30+ years of roofing expertise
Since 1990, we’ve been roofing complex homes in MN. We take pride in our workmanship, carrying the best industry warranties in the market.
Licensed, insured, and warranty-backed
All our roofing specialists are licensed and insured to ensure that you get both a reliable roof and peace of mind. You’ll also get a dedicated project advisor who will oversee your roofing project from start to finish.
Expert in complex roof structures
Our team is always up for any roofing challenge – even the most complex mansard roof! We can repair, replace, or install just about roof style in Minnesota for both residential and commercial properties.
Roof financing via PowerPay
Dreaming of getting a mansard roof, but you don’t have a budget yet? You can finally start your home improvement project with our financing option via PowerPay. We also work with insurance companies to get all eligible roof work covered!
Get expert advice on roofing styles for your Mankato home!
Do you want to know if a mansard roof is the perfect choice for your home? Contact us at BoelterIsBetter today to schedule a consultation with one of our roofing specialists! We’ll help you find the perfect one for your home with a free estimate and at an affordable price.
FAQs about mansard roofs
How long do mansard roofs last?
A mansard roof can last for 30 to 100 years, depending on the material and construction quality. For example, slate mansard roofs can last for up to 100 years, metal mansard roofs can last for 40 to 70 years, and cedar shake mansard roofs can last for 30 to 40 years. Meanwhile, asphalt shingle mansard roofs have the shortest lifespan at around 20 to 30 years.
Aside from roofing material, the longevity of a mansard roof also depends on the local climate conditions and maintenance.
Do mansard roofs need gutters?
Yes, mansard roofs typically need gutters to allow rainwater and snowmelt to drain properly. Gutters on mansard roofs prevent splashing directly onto exterior walls to avoid staining, siding damage, and basement flooding. However, older mansard roofs may not have gutters and simply drain water directly off the roof.
How do you ventilate a mansard roof?
To ventilate a mansard roof, install intake vents at transition points where the steep slope meets the flatter slope. It must be installed just above the attic insulation in the upper section of the mansard. Meanwhile, outtake vents must be installed on high points of the roof’s peak, such as hip vents or ridge vents. This will allow proper air circulation to prevent moisture buildup and uneven temperatures in your attic.
How do you insulate a mansard roof?
To insulate a mansard roof, you can choose between spray foam insulation for a seamless layer with the addition of PIR boards with a vapor barrier. For existing mansard roofs, the least invasive and most effective method is to use blow-in insulation to fill all wall cavities efficiently. If unsure, you can consult with a local roofing company like BoelterIsBetter to know the best insulation option for your mansard roof.
Is a mansard roof suitable for new builds in Minnesota?
Yes, mansard roofs are a suitable roofing option for new builds in Minnesota. However, it must be designed with heavy snowfall in mind to prevent the formation of ice dams during winter. If done correctly, mansard roofs will add extra living space to your home while withstanding challenging Minnesota weather events, such as blizzards, high winds, and tornadoes.
Are mansard roofs good for cold climates?
Generally, traditional mansard roofs are not ideal for cold and snowy climates due to the almost-flat upper slope that could prevent snow from shedding naturally. However, with a custom design, insulation, and proper drainage, mansard roofs can be feasible for cold climates as long as it’s also provided with regular maintenance.
