A lean-to roof is a single sloped roof that attaches to an existing building. Homeowners most often use lean-to roofs for home and outbuilding additions.

The most significant advantage of a lean-to roof is the easy construction. Since these roofs only have one slope, they don’t require a lot of material or labor costs.

If you’re considering adding to your house, garage, or outbuilding, here’s what you should know about lean-to roofs.

What is a Lean-To Roof Design?

A lean-to is a shed roof featuring one sloping side that butts up against an existing structure. Contractors use lean-tos to add on to houses or outbuildings. Lean-tos can be enclosed on all four sides or left open, depending on the use.

Since lean-tos have a steep pitch, they prevent water or snow from piling on the roof but require gutters for adequate drainage.

What is a Double Lean-To Roof?

A double lean-to roof occurs when two lean-to roofs butt up against one another at their lowest peak, forming a “V.” Double lean-to roofs are not as common as single lean-to roofs.

Pros and Cons of a Lean-To Roof

Lean-to roofs are ideal for home and outbuilding additions. Here’s a further look at the pros and cons.

Pros:

Easy construction – Since lean-to roofs only feature one sloping side, they make home and outbuilding additions easy.Inexpensive – Lean-to roofs are one of the least expensive to design since they don’t require a lot of material.Prevent snow and water pooling – The slope of a lean-to prevents water or snow from sitting on the roof.Can use any material – You can match the roofing material on your lean-to to what’s already on the structure.

Cons:

Not suitable for hurricane zones – A lean-to or shed roof isn’t your best option if you live in a hurricane zone or an area with frequent high winds.Looks – While lean-tos provide a simple way to add additions, they don’t match every house style.

Lean-To Roof: Ideas and Examples

If you’re wondering how a lean-to looks, here are some examples and ideas.

Home Addition with Lean-To Roof

ALCO Exteriors

In this home addition, a lean-to roof with a sharp slope creates an extra room. The siding on the addition matches the house.

You can use lean-to roofs of various pitches to add small additions to homes.

Barn with Lean-to Roof

King Construction Company LLC

A lean-to roof is added to the side of this barn to house equipment and offer shade. It’s not uncommon for barns and sheds to have open walls on lean-to additions.

You can use a lean-to on a barn or garage to store extra equipment, wood piles, and supplies.

Ultra Modern Home With Lean-To Style Glass Room

Lucid Architecture

Lean-tos aren’t just for barns and farmhouse additions. These roofs look great on ultramodern homes too.

The glass room on this contemporary house features a lean-to roof and a mid-century modern feel.

Mountain Home with Lean-To Addition

Studio Architects

A lean-to roof and rock walls make a great addition to this wooden mountain house. If you’re adding a lean-to to your home, you can make it blend in by using the same siding or turn it into an accent by choosing a complementary material.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

What’s the best roofing material for a lean-to?

You can use any material for a lean-to roof, including metal, asphalt shingles, and tiles. Consider using the same roofing material as the structure you’re adding to.

What is a lean-to roof called?

A lean-to roof is also called a shed roof or a skillion roof.

Can you put a lean-to roof on the side of the house?

You can put a lean-to roof on the side of the house to create an addition. Lean-tos are ideal for butting up against existing structures.

What is it called when a cabin has a lean-to roof?

A cabin roof with one sloped side is called a shed roof or skillion roof. If a cabin has an addition with a sloped roof, that is called a lean-to roof.

Is a shed roof the same as a lean-to?

A lean-to is a type of shed roof. Lean-to roofs are single-sided roofs contractors use for additions – they butt against existing structures. Shed roofs are single-sided sloped roofs that sit atop homes and outbuildings.

Are lean-to roofs expensive?

Since lean-to roofs only have one side, they’re less expensive than many other styles. A considerable roofing cost is material, so the price will vary depending on what you choose. According to Forbes, asphalt shingles are one of the least expensive roofing materials.

Lean-to roofs feature one sloping side that butts up against an existing structure. Since these roofs only have one side, they’re easy and cheap to build. You can use a lean-to roof to add to any building, including houses, garages, and barns.

The most significant disadvantage to lean-tos is they don’t stand up well to high winds and may not match every house. Lean-tos are commonly added to modern and rustic homes but may not suit more traditional styles.