Georgian Parapets, Mansard & Shallow Pitch Roofs

Parapets, Mansard & Shallow Pitch Roofs

Parapets became a popular feature during the early Georgian period. This was partly because of its classical looks and also because it helped prevent the spread of fire to a roof. It was fashionable to hide the roof from view at street level. A parapet could also accommodate the water drainage that lay hidden behind it.

Properties were larger in the Georgian period than every before. They tended to be at least two levels high and two rooms deep. This meant that a greater roof was needed to cover the building. All the added weight of roof tiles meant that the best way to roof the house was a double pitch roof which helped spread the weight.

When the lighter welsh slate became available later in the Georgian period, a single shallower pitch roof became possible. In the larger houses a Mansard roof became desirable and this style allowed the attic space to be used as servant quarters.

Georgian Roofs

1. Parapet 2. Double pile house with double pitch roof

3. Mansard roof 4. Shallow pitch roof