Gable vs Skillion Roof Sheds

22 October 2025

There are so many factors that you need to consider when building a shed, and one of the most important is the type of roof it will have. The roof style and pitch don't just impact the aesthetics of your shed, but its strength, drainage, and how it fits in with the rest of your property, too. Two wonderful options for shed roofs are gable roofs and skillion roofs. Before you decide which type of roof to add to your shed, let us highlight the differences between a gable roof and a skillion roof to help you.

What is a gable roof shed?

A gable roof shed features two sloping sides that meet in the middle to form a peak or ridge. It’s the classic roof shape most people think of when they picture a shed or house. The design allows for easy water runoff and provides good ventilation for the inside. Gable roofs suit residential and rural properties and work well for sheds of all sizes.

What is a skillion roof shed?

A skillion roof shed has a single sloping surface that angles in one direction. It’s a modern and simple design that’s become very popular across Australia. The slope makes it efficient for water runoff and ideal for areas with heavy rain.

Pros and cons of gable roof sheds

When you're looking for a shed roof style that is both traditional and practical, gabled roofs fit the bill! They're versatile and suit pretty much any building well. Still, before you make your decision, consider the pros and cons of installing a gable roof on your shed:

Pros of gable roof sheds:

• A gable roof offers a simple, traditional triangular profile that has stood the test of time

• A gable roof has excellent drainage regardless of the direction the rain falls

• A gable roof's raised ceiling offers good ventilation

• A gable roof works well with larger buildings

• A gable roof pairs well with most shed designs

• A gable roof's ceiling space can be used for a mezzanine for storage

Cons of gable roof sheds:

• A gable roof is a slightly more complicated build, and may have a longer construction time

• A gable roof could be more expensive to build than simpler designs, depending on its size

• A gable roof may catch more wind because of its A-frame shape

• A gable roof may need more bracing if you're in a high-wind area

Pros and cons of skillion roof sheds

Skillion roofs are a modernised alternative style of roof compared to the traditional flat and gable roofs. It offers a versatile look that is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing, and is especially useful if you want to install solar panels or a skylight. Here are the pros and cons of a skillion roof shed:

Pros of skillion roof sheds:

• Skillion roofs have a more modern look

• Skillion roofs are simple and easy to build, so that the construction time may be faster

• Skillion roofs have excellent water run-off in the direction of the slope (one direction)

• Skillion roofs have a flat section that is ideal for installing solar panels

• Skillion roofs are relatively easy to maintain

Cons of skillion roof sheds:

• Skillion roofs have less internal headroom in the shed

• Skillion roofs' ceiling space is limited, so you don't have much room to install a mezzanine

• Skillion roofs may need assistance with drainage, and may require a gutter system to be installed

Which roof pitch is right for you?

Deciding between a gable and a skillion roof ultimately depends on the style of your property, your local climate, and how you plan to use the shed. A gable roof shed is better if you prefer a classic look and need extra internal space. It offers good ventilation and can handle various weather conditions, including heavy rain and whatever the elements throw at it. This makes it a popular option for general storage sheds, workshops, and garages. Gable roofs may cost a bit more but provide a more traditional appearance and more usable space inside.

A skillion roof shed suits modern homes and properties. The single slope provides excellent water drainage and creates a striking, contemporary appearance. It’s also the preferred design for installing solar panels. Regarding cost, skillion roofs are generally a little cheaper and quicker to build because of their simple structure.

Both styles can be customised to suit your preferences, with options for different roof pitches, colours, and materials. Whether you want your shed to stand out from the rest of the buildings or blend in seamlessly with your home, either design can be tailored to achieve your desired look and function.

Design your own shed with our shed designer app

At Fair Dinkum Builds, we pride ourselves on offering fully customisable sheds so that you can get your dream shed. To do this, you can use our shed designer app to design your shed. You can tinker around and check out your design with both roof types, so you can see which one you prefer the most. Our shed designer app is easy to use and will let you customise your shed, allowing you to choose everything, from the roof pitch and size to the colour and layout.

Bring your shed design to life

Once you're happy with your design, we can bring it to life! Contact Fair Dinkum Builds so we can provide you with a quote and offer expert advice. We only use quality, Australian-grade materials to make ShedSafe-accredited sheds, and with over 30 years of experience in the industry, you can trust our team to help you build a durable and aesthetically pleasing shed! So, don't settle for an average shed; build with us, and we'll bring your shed design to life.

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