Which roof form is simple and sheds rain well but can be wind-prone?

• A. Hip roof — stable in high winds but more complex.
• B. Pitched with deep eaves — excellent shade and rain shedding but may be costly.
• C. Gable roof — simple and sheds rain well but can be wind-prone.
• D. Flat roof — least expensive but poor rain shedding.

Answer: (C)

This question tests how roof forms balance rain shedding with wind performance. A gable roof has a straightforward, triangular end and two sloping sides, which creates a clean slope that sheds rain efficiently and is easy to build. The rain runs off quickly down the slopes, reducing ponding and leaks. But that same simple shape can catch wind like a sail; with high winds, the ends and the gable openings can experience uplift and pressure, making it more wind-prone than more sheltered forms. On the other hand, a hip roof wraps down on all sides, providing stability in strong winds due to distributed loads, though it’s more complex to construct; a pitched roof with deep eaves offers good shade and rain shedding but comes with higher material and labor costs; a flat roof is inexpensive but drains poorly and collects water. Therefore, the roof form that is simple and sheds rain well but can be wind-prone is the gable roof.