Choosing a roof is one of the most important decisions in the process of planning the construction of a house, ordering its design and the construction itself. In order to correctly choose one of the most important elements of house construction, we need to make a number of related decisions. Here are the top 10 issues when choosing a roof.
The structure and the shape of the roof
Choosing the shape and construction of the roof is usually the first aspect when choosing it. It is closely related to the architectural design of the house – it stems directly from it. Even at the stage of choosing a house design, other factors should be taken into account. It should be noted here that the decision regarding the shape and construction of the roof usually cannot be altered while the house is under construction.
The roof is adapted to the local plan.
A very important consideration when choosing a roof is to verify the local regulations pertaining to the type of roof and its coverage, in force in a specific area. This is basically where the search for a house design should begin. The regulations may define, among others: the shape, type of roof and its slope, location of the roof in relation to the plot boundaries, type of roofing and its colors, the possibility of using an attic, the possibility of building dormers and many other issues.
The material for the roof truss
When choosing a roof, the truss material should also be taken into account. Usually, various types of wood are used for the construction of the roof truss. The most popular are pine, spruce, fir, larch, oak. However, steel roof trusses are also gaining popularity. The truss can be constructed on-site, but the steel truss, and sometimes also the wooden trusses, are made of pre-fabricated elements.
Roof adapted to climatic conditions
The roof should be adapted to the climatic conditions, prevailing in the area. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the distance from, for example: forests, mountains and water reservoirs. Roofs in mountainous areas will be exposed to low temperatures. Moisture will be a threat in areas with frequent rainfalls. The proximity of the sea or mountains also means stronger winds.
Type of roofing material
Several factors must be considered in order to select the right roofing material. In addition to aesthetic preferences, there are also opportunities resulting from the local plan. The load-bearing capacity of the roof truss should also be taken into account. Roofing materials differ in weight and resistance to moisture. For example, the heaviest and the most durable are ceramic and cement tiles, while metal roofing sheet is lighter and easier to install.
Type of roof sheathing
When choosing a roof, it is also very important to choose the right roof sheathing, i.e. the protection that is under the roof covering. In this case, we can choose a rigid sheathing – full boarding, covered with tar paper or foil. It is heavier and more expensive. We also have a choice of foil, batten and counter-battens. This solution is lighter and cheaper. The type of roofing material should match the roof covering.
Covering vs sheathing of the roof
There is no full freedom of choice in the case of matching the covering and the sheeting. Materials such as bituminous shingles and flat sheets can only be installed on a rigid decking. Depending on the type of covering, fiber-cement tiles are laid on the rigid sheathing. Ceramic and cement tiles should also be installed on this type of sheathing, if the slope angle is small.
Availability of materials
When deciding on the most typical materials, be it a roof truss, sheathing or roof covering, there should be no problems with their availability. However, if we want to use less common materials, we must take into account their high price. Besides, there is also the possibility of a long wait. This, in turn, can translate into a longer roof construction time.
Roofing and the shape of the roof
In most cases, any roofing material can be used on any roof shape. However, some combinations can prove to be quite costly or impractical. Therefore, in case of complicated shapes with many slopes, it is worth using small-format roofings. For example – ceramic or concrete tiles. Fiber cement tiles, stone slate, wooden shingle or chips will also work.
Choose a proven crew for the construction of the roof
As can be seen above – the choice of a roof is a series of related decisions that will later influence the quality and durability of the roof. And so, another decision is to choose the right roofing company. Utmost attention should be paid to professionalism, knowledge and experience. While choosing a company to build a roof, it is also important to properly prepare it in terms of contracts and transparency.
As can be seen above – the choice of a roof is a series of related decisions that will later influence the quality and durability of the roof. And so, another decision is to choose the right roofing company. Utmost attention should be paid to professionalism, knowledge and experience. While choosing a company to build a roof, it is also important to properly prepare it in terms of contracts and transparency.
