What is a stepped gable?
A stepped gable, also called a crow-stepped gable or corbie-stepped gable, is a gable whose sloping edges rise to the top in a series of steps instead of a straight line. The gable wall projects above the roof and forms a kind of staircase on each side. It is typical of the Low Countries (Dutch trapgevel), of northern German and Baltic brick Gothic, and of Scotland, where the steps are known as corbie steps.
Features
- The gable is higher than the roof behind it: the steps project above the roof slopes.
- Each step has a horizontal top and a vertical face.
- The number of steps varies; the apex is often finished with a pinnacle, a raised top piece or a chimney.
- The steps are capped with stone, a brick-on-edge course, or later with lead or zinc.
- In the Netherlands, the stepped gable was gradually replaced from the seventeenth century by neck gables, bell gables and later cornice facades.
Maintenance points
A stepped gable is attractive but vulnerable. Every step is a small horizontal surface that catches rain, snow and frost.
- Copings: check that coping stones or brick-on-edge courses are secure and shed water outwards. Loose or cracked copings let water into the wall.
- Pointing: open joints on and around the steps are the main cause of damp. Repoint with a mortar that suits the old masonry, often a lime mortar on historic buildings.
- Roof abutment: where the gable rises above the roof, a sound lead or zinc flashing is needed.
- Stability: the top of the gable stands free and catches a lot of wind. Cracks or a leaning apex should be assessed; wall ties or anchors are often present or needed.
- Listed buildings: many stepped gables are protected. Always consult the heritage authority before repairs.
Related terms
- Gable end
- Neck gable
- Bell gable
- Soldier course
- Wall coping
- Donkey-back coping
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