How to Build a Pitched Roof? (UK)

pitched_roof_Farnborough

How to Build a Pitched Roof?

If you are planning to build a pitched roof, you may have a lot of questions and concerns about going about it. In this blog, our roofing experts will take you through the process of building a pitched roof and also answer all your burning questions about it.

What is a Pitched Roof?

A pitched roof is one that has sloping sides. The slope can be as steep as 45 degrees or as shallow as 3 degrees. This type of roofing is used for commercial properties, warehouses, factories, schools, churches, and many other types of structures. It is usually made out of metal or wood shingles.

Why should I use a pitched roof?

Pitched roofs are very durable and long-lasting. They also provide great insulation from the elements. A pitched roof can last up to 50 years if maintained properly. If you want to save money on energy bills, then a pitched roof is definitely the way to go. You can also get a good deal when you buy a new house with a pitched roof.

What are the Different Types of Pitched Roof?

There are three different types of pitched roofs: gable, hip, and gambrel. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let us look at each in detail.

  1. Mono-pitch roof

The mono-pitch roof is the most common type of roof found in homes and businesses today. It consists of only one pitch. There is no second pitch. A single layer of material is placed on top of the rafters. This means that there is no ridgepole. The advantage of using a mono-pitch roof over a double-pitch roof is that it is cheaper.

  1. Double-Pitch Roof

The double-pitch roof has two pitches. One side slopes up while the other side slopes down. This gives the roof an overall shape similar to the letter “C”. It is often seen in old houses.

  1. Gable Roof

This type of roof is the most popular among homeowners. It is a combination of a mono-pitch and a double-pitch. It has a peak that extends above the roofline.

  1. Hip Roof

Hip roofs are not commonly used in residential settings because they require a high degree of skill and expertise. However, they are still used for commercial purposes. The advantage of a hip roof is that it provides better insulation than a mono-pitch or double-pitch roof.

  1. Gambrel Roof

Gambrel roofs are the least common type of roof. They are used mostly by farmers. They are also known as barn roofs.

  1. Couple roof

A couple roof is a combination of a gable roof and a hip roof. The gable roof is located on the front part of the house. The hip roof is located in the back part of the house. Both roofs are connected together by a ridgepole.

  1. Tented Roof

Tented roofs are used mainly in commercial settings. They are also called tent roofs. They are made from metal sheets.

 

How to Build a Pitched Roof

It is no easy task to build a pitched roof. Before you begin any work, you should make all the necessary preparations. To begin with, you should make sure that your roof can support a pitched roof. Are there enough beams in your roof structure? Does the roof frame have structural integrity?  You can begin constructing once you answer “yes” to these questions.

You will need to calculate your roof pitch once you’ve determined whether your property can accommodate a pitched roof. You can think of the pitch of your roof as an angle or as X:12 ratio, which describes the slope of your roof. Most low-pitched roofs are 2-3:12, while steeper pitches are up to 6:12.

Mount the trusses on the roof. Space your trusses apart according to your calculations after lifting them onto the roof. Depending on your roof, there is no specific distance for taking this measurement. The distance between roof trusses is typically between 30 and 40 cm, but can even go as high as 60 cm.

Install braces. Place a 2″x6″ board in the middle of your back wall at an approximately 16-foot height. Similarly sized pieces can then be nailed 6 feet either side of the first piece. Repeat the process on the other side of the roof. Don’t worry too much about how they look – braces are only temporary!

Attach the roof trusses. You should attach the first truss to the end truss slightly larger than its length. Fit it tightly to the central brace if it projects out slightly.

Do the same on the other side of the roof. To attach the timber trusses to the temporary brace planks along the length of the roof, create a truss that spans the length of it. After that, you can keep adding trusses at set intervals

As with the temporary bracing, you can install the permanent ones at either end of your roof. To ensure the firm anchoring of all roof trusses, be sure to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Sheathing can then be added beginning at the bottom corner and moving across the roof horizontally. Plywood is most commonly used for sheathing, but other materials can be used as well. Every joint must be over a roof truss, and there should be a small gap between each sheet. The nails should be spaced around six inches apart. Repeat the process for the second row.

Pitch Roof vs Flat or Sloped Roof – Which one is better?

Different roof types serve different purposes. Picking one depends on what you need it for. For example, if you want the most space in your attic, a pitched roof will serve better than a flat or sloped roof. A flat roof does not provide much in the way of architectural interest, so it is best suited for buildings with a more modern, industrial feel. A sloped roof is more traditional and provides more opportunities to add architectural interest. Many roofing services will attend you property to see which is most suited to your home.

How Do I Choose the Right Roof?

When choosing a roof, there are several things to consider. First, make sure that the roof meets building code requirements. Second, check if the roof is suitable for the climate where you live. Third, look into whether the roof needs maintenance. If so, what kind of maintenance does it require? Finally, think about how much money you want to spend on the project.

FAQs

Why Should I Go With a Pitched Roof?

Pitched roofs are very durable. They are strong enough to withstand heavy winds and snow loads. They are also easy to maintain. You don’t need any special tools to repair them. If you want to know more about why you should choose a pitched roof over a flat roof, read on!

Which is a better flat roof or pitched roof?

The advantages of a pitched roof over a flat roof are greater stability and drainage in areas that receive a lot of rain. Nevertheless, flat roofs can be a great option if you live in an area that receives little rainfall.

Is a pitched roof cheaper to build than a flat roof?

Flat roofs are much cheaper to build than pitched roofs.  In the long term, pitched roofs may be more affordable than flat roofs because pitched roofs are less prone to moisture damage, and flat roofs are more expensive to repair.

See our previous post here: How Long do Conservatory Roofs Last?

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