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Where it all begins...

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Believe it or not, the type of roof you have is actually the starting point for any design. Whilst it may be the last part of the structure to be erected it has an impact on everything below it. 

 

There are broadly speaking, two types of roof, flat and pitched.

Flat roofs are very similar to floors in that they use straight joists from one support to another. Pitched roofs on the other hand can be created in many ways.

 

  • Modern house construction tends to favour the use of trussed rafters wherever possible. These are cheap, lightweight and easy to install. They must be designed by a specialist to ensure that the combination of timber sizes and plated connections will come together to form a strong webbed truss. 

 

  • Pitched roofs may also be formed by hand cutting loose rafters. This is a more traditional method where skilled carpenters will create all the connections required on site to form the roof structure. As a result of the additional labour required, this is normally the more expensive option but is sometimes necessary in more complicated arrangements where the use of trussed rafters is not possible.

 

  • Flat roofs dont use tiles, instead they are waterproofed by adding a membrane to stop water from permeating into the structure. Common flat roof finishes are layers of bitumen, rubber EPDM or standing seam metal (normally zinc). These are always 'laid to falls' meaning any water will run off and not pool.

Roofs

Finishes and weights

 

Different roof finishes will have an impact on the imposed loads that must be supported. For example, the type of tiles you use will vary in weight. Typical tiles might be, clay, concrete, slate, cementitious fible, plastic, interlocking or plain, handmade or machinemade etc etc All of which will have an impact on the roof design. In most cases the 'look' of the roof will be defined your local authority when you apply for planning permission. This will be based on the materials used in nearby properties or the general character of the house you are buiding. Most roofing companies will have a slection of samples for you to browse when choosing the right type of finish.

In house design team

 
Let our team of expert timber frame designers assist you with every aspect of your design from the roof down to the foundations. We can guide you through any questions you may have about the technical side of your timber frame home.

 

 

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