A mansard can be defined as which of the following?

• A. Identifiable style of construction on the exterior of a building that will conceal and spread the travel of fire.
• B. A flat roof with dormers
• C. A sloped roof with two different pitches
• D. A type of support beam

Answer: (B)

A mansard roof is defined by two distinct pitches on each roof plane, creating a double-slope design. The lower slope is steep to maximize usable attic space and headroom, while the upper slope is flatter, giving the roof a near-flat appearance from the top and often allowing a full upper story. This is not a flat roof with dormers, nor a simple single-pitch roof or a beam. Dormers can appear with a mansard, but the defining feature is the two different pitches, making a sloped roof with two pitches the correct description.