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Building Homes or Extensions/Extending roof line of cape cod

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Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 6/14/2009


Question

Cape cod
We live in Wisconsin. We have just bought a cape code built in the 50s. It has cedar shake siding and cedar shake under the present asphalt shingles. We not only need to replace the asphalt shingles and rip off the cedar shake and put down some plywood before putting done some new high quality lifetime shingles, but we are also thinking about extending the roof line. We have received different opinions from professionals and non-professionals alike about the aesthetic overall look this will create--mostly negative responses. At present, there is literally no overhang and when it rains hard, the rain just runs down all the windows. We have seen many modern-style cape cods that do have extended roofs and they seem to look nice. Can you take a look at the attached picture and give us your opinion.  

Answer
Juan & Kathy,

While in principle I agree that having roof overhangs is a good thing for your house, in your case there are several potential problems:

1. The steep roof pitch means that extending your eaves will bring them down close to, or in conflict with, your windows.
2. The aesthetic/feel at your front door is tricky, as it is adjacent to an inside corner.  If you extend the eaves and small gable over the door, I believe you will be unhappy with the resulting complicated soffit intersections that you will enter under.
3. The gable ends are so tall that even if you extend the roof by 12", rain will still likely fall on many of your windows, depending on the direction and prevailing winds in your area.

I do see a limited roof extension as a possibility, but to do it so that it looks right, you must pay careful attention to trim details and handle intersections properly.  If you still want to consider extending your roof, I suggest you consult with a designer, architect, or design/build contractor; they will be able to draw the proposal to scale, so that you can see how it will look, and if you will like it.

I hope this helps as you enjoy your new home.  Feel free to post any followups that you may have.

Ted Barnhill

Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC)

Expertise

I can answer questions about architectural design, how to work with a designer, and best construction practices for most trades. I specialize in cold-climate design (I'm in Minnesota), older home renovation, and energy-efficient/sustainable design.

Experience

As a Principal of Design45, I design and detail new homes and remodels. I am formally trained in architecture, but have also been a contractor and have experience with many trades. I strive to provide beautiful, durable, and efficient homes for clients and communities of all types and budgets.

Education/Credentials
Undergraduate work at Princeton University (Mathematics), Master's work at the University of Minnesota (Architecture)

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