FLAT ROOFS:- HOW TO BUILD
This project is presented by Permaroof
Summary: Learn how to install a flat roof on your building.
Flat roofs are constructed basically with joists spanning the gap between two walls, covered by sheet timber or other material. In the case of timber a further, waterproof cover is required. The weight of these last two coverings, together with the span, form the basis of the calculation for the size of joists required. A further part of this equation is discovered in Approved document A of the Building Regulations (Structure) where the possible snow loadings, depending on area of the country and height above the ordinance datum, are taken into consideration.
It is therefore important, before building your structure that you have the desired building regulation approval. There are 8 “maximum span” tables in the regulations, which deal with the loading and span of the roof together with any slight pitch over 10 degrees that it may have to dispose of rainwater. These tables and rules are designed to protect your home. A copy of these rules can be obtained by ordering from www.thestationaryoffice.com or telephone 0870 600 5522. Fax orders are taken on 0870 600 5533. The booklet costs £10.00. Please do not ask us to specify your timbers as mistakes in dimensions etc can be very dangerous and we will not apply definitive regulations to any project we do not have first hand knowledge of.
If, for example, the incorrect size timbers were used and as a result your roof were subject to unnecessary movement, its covering would soon become weaker and is liable to split and possibly leak.
The diagram below is a general one and the specified timbers must be inserted at the correct centres. Timber “noggins” must also be inserted between the joists at 600mm centres to avoid twists in the joists. This roof shows the traditional covering of felt, there are more applications these days including fibreglass and rubber. ( Rubber roofs can be seen by clicking on the permaroof logo and a DIY method of fixing rubber roofs can be seen by scrolling down)
Flat roofing
Gap G may be built in to avoid twist in the timbers. For timber sheet, we recommend 18 or 22mm Stirling board or ply. The arris rail is purpose made and available from most timber merchants and gives a 2-inch up stand to edges from which the water flows away. The felt roofing to the correct B.S. can be applied all over the roof in the specified number of layers, and strips of mineral felt are then fixed to the facia boards with the back facing out. They are then turned over the arris rail and sealed to the top of the covering. This gives a finished edge to the roof/facia board.
Before
After
In the case of a felt or fibreglass covered roof, we very strongly advise the installation of this by a professional. You will get a guarantee and that is worth its weight in gold. If you are felting, and you do get a leak having done the job yourself, 99% of the time a patch will not work because the water will have seeped under the felt already, causing soft spots to your sheet covering.
For rubber flat roofing see all of the information available at the following links.
If you are reasonable at DIY we sell DIY kits that can save you some money. The kit includes everything you will need, the membrane itself, trims, glues, fixings etc. There are 2 systems to choose from depending on your circumstances. You will find 2 diy guides below. Feel free to download them for your information. If you would like advice on which system you should use, don't hesitate to call. The system price works out at £18 per square meter. So just measure the 2 widest points to calculate the square meterage and times it by £18. The price also includes vat and next day delivery
Click here and visit our "Free Downloads" section for DIY Installation Guide
Click here and visit our "Free Downloads" section for DIY Installation Guide FAS
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All project content written and produced by Mike Edwards
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