Installing A Pitched Roof

April 1, 2011 - PRLog -- Choosing a pitched roof

The basic design of the pitched roof ensures that rain, snow and ice are able to fall off the roof more easily rather than sitting on the roof causing long term damage. Flat roofs may be more susceptible to problems such as rot, damp and leakage as water can sit on top of the roof.

Deciding on a truss roof or a cut roof

Depending on your needs and preferences there are two types of pitched roof you can choose from. The first, the cut roof, is a pitched roof that is constructed entirely on your site including the cutting of rafters. The second, the truss roof, is a much simpler option especially if you are planning on installing the roof yourself. A truss roof is prefabricated and delivered to your site with the trusses already measured, cut and erected.

Calculating the dimensions of your roof

The design of your roof is important to the overall look of the roof and as such needs to be decided upon before you start making measurements for the construction of the roof. Once you have a design you are happy with it is best to stick to it. If you are going with a cut roof you will need to calculate the size of the roof and the pitch. The pitch is the slope gradient and is worked out as a ratio between the length of the roof and the height. Your calculations will help you determine how much timber you need for your project. Remember to factor in the wall plate, rafters and joists in your calculations.

The wall plate measurement is affected by the height of the plate and the plate's position, which needs to take into account the height of the materials that will sit on top of your roof frame. From here you can calculate the size of your rafters which will also depend on the width of the spacing between rafters.

You may choose to work out your measurements using the latest roof designing software making this step simpler and possibly more accurate. Truss roof dimensions and sizes are worked out in this way so that the frame that is delivered to you is the right fit.

6 Steps for a new roof

1. Think about how you want the roof layout to look and choose a rafter pattern
2. This pattern works as a template from which you can now cut your rafters. You can work out how many rafters you need by calculating the length of the horizontal ridge board.
3. Calculate the elevation of the ridge at its top and decide on how you want this ridge to be laid out. Make sure it is straight and level. Outline the position of your rafters along this ridge board.  
4. The rafters can now be installed. First they are nailed to the ridge securing them to the frame. They are then attached to the plates that are situated next to your joists to keep them in place.  
     5. You can't complete your roof without installing the bracing. This is the support or backbone for your roof and will prevent it from collapsing or sagging later on. Finally the roofing material can be laid – roofing paper, sheathing and then your tiles or shingles.
6. Fit your trim to complete your pitched roof.

These basic steps show how simple it can be to install a pitched roof. However, calculations need to be 100% correct, and there are a number of small steps along the way that require a good knowledge of roofing and expert craftsmanship. Hiring a professional to install your roof or consult with you on the job is the recommended route to having a beautiful and strong roof.

For more roofing information please visit the PCR Roofing website :
http://www.leeds-roofer.co.uk/

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PCR is a professional roofing company in Leeds England who carry out roof repairs and installations across Yorkshire.

For more roofing information please visit the PCR Roofing website :
http://www.leeds-roofer.co.uk/