A sawtooth roof is a type of roof that is made up of a series of sloping ridges with dual pitches on either side. The steeper surfaces are glazed to admit daylight and face away from the equator to shield workers and machinery from direct sunlight. This kind of roof admits natural light into a deep plan building or factory. It was therefore most commonly built during the Machine Age from the mid-nineteenth century to the mid-twentieth, when electrification of factories was not yet extensively developed.

Before electric light substituted for daylight in the late 19th century, consideration of good daylight strategies was essential. The sawtooth roof, with its glass panels facing away from the equator, blocks the light and heat of direct sun exposure and provides uniform, natural light over a large area. Historically they were used in industrial and manufacturing buildings as the primary light source. Some architects think that sawtooth roofs look best when grouped in rows of three or more.

Here are some of the advantages of sawtooth roofs:

* Admits natural light into a deep plan building or factory

* Blocks the light and heat of direct sun exposure

* Provides uniform, natural light over a large area

* Can be used for a variety of structures

Here are some of the disadvantages of sawtooth roofs:

* More expensive to build than other types of roofs

* Can be susceptible to wind damage

* May not be suitable for all styles of homes

Overall, sawtooth roofs are a good option for many types of structures. They provide good natural light and can be used for a variety of purposes. However, they are more expensive to build than other types of roofs and may not be suitable for all styles of homes.

Here are some additional considerations when choosing a sawtooth roof:

* The size and shape of the structure

* The climate in the area

* The budget

* The desired style

With careful planning, a sawtooth roof can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home or property.