When we say wood for roofing, we are usually talking about the whole system underneath the outside, the support of the tiles. In this way of understanding roofing, we can see that the woodwork is the most complex and sensitive part of the job.
Thus, the roofing timber is what supports the tiles and holds them in position. To ensure a well-finished roof that won’t cause problems or frustration in the future, it is important to take care in the execution of the roof lumber. Some common mistakes in this phase of the work can cause problems such as leaks, infiltrations, water damaging circuits, broken tiles, etc.
Roof lumber: Common problems you can avoid
To help you avoid these inconveniences and losses, riverside roofing pros have listed the most common problems when installing wood for roofing. Read on!
Inadequate slope of the roof lumber
This is one of the most common mistakes made when using wood for roofing: miscalculating the pitch according to the type of roof tile chosen.
If you are going to use the colonial model tiles, your roof will have a specific inclination, which is usually higher. If you are going to install ecological tiles, you can have a roof with a lower inclination.
However, there is a minimum slope that determines what is the smallest possible percentage that the roof should have.
If this slope is not respected, wood for roofing does not guarantee safety for the tiles, which can slide, fly off or break more easily. Besides this damage, which in itself is already quite frustrating, you can still have problems with drips, infiltrations and clogged gutters.
To avoid this mistake:
- Calculate the slope of the roof according to the type of shingles;
- Ask a professional to measure the correct inclination;
- Monitor the installation of the main rafters;
- Load the tiles too heavily
In addition to the slope, the timber must also be sufficient to withstand the weight of the roof. If not, problems can be very serious, even for the family’s safety.
Colonial ceramic tiles are among the heaviest, as are concrete tiles. To withstand the weight of these tiles, the wooden roof railing must be more elaborate and resistant. Therefore, the heavier the tile, the more you will spend on roofing lumber.
When the load is too heavy, there can be damage to the roofing wood structure. Broken rafters can even cause some sections of the roof to collapse.
Among the types of tiles available on the market, some considerations must be made:
- PVC tiles are quite light, but their appearance has not yet taken off;
- Fiber-cement tiles are hotter and more fragile;
- Ecological tiles are a good way out, since they are light and require less roofing wood, providing much more savings.
Evaluate well the weight of the tiles per square meter. Assemble your woodwork according to the tiles’ weight.
Invest in lighter tiles.
Bent timber
A problem that is also quite common with roofing wood is that it deforms over time and ends up warping. This makes the whole roof seem crooked, which ends up harming its aesthetics and makes covering the house dangerous.
The tiles also break more easily, and infiltrations and leaks appear in the gaps created by the displacement of the tiles.
If the roofing wood is warped, it is most likely that the wood was not squared. It’s like building a crooked wall, only with a much more malleable material than concrete and bricks.
To avoid this mistake:
- Count on a specialized professional to do the roof timbering;
- Invest in quality materials for the roofing wood;
- Avoid pieces that are bent or have any curvature.
Rotten wood
This problem is usually a consequence of other situations that are already occurring. Water enters through a broken tile and accumulates humidity in the roofing wood, which, being organic matter, ends up rotting.
When this happens, it is necessary to replace all the compromised wood to ensure the safety of the structure.
By using good materials you can make better use of the structure and guarantee the safety of the roof. It is good to remember that lighter tile models require less wood in the structure, which helps in preventing widespread renovations due to rotting wood.
To avoid this mistake:
- Opt for roofing models that require less wood;
- Choose quality wood for the roof;
- Be careful when installing the woodwork.
Mistakes in wood for roofing can cause a lot of damage, besides putting the whole construction at risk. Knowing the most common mistakes in this phase of the work, it is easier to ensure a safe, beautiful, and durable roof for your project. In general, investing in quality materials and hiring good professionals is the best strategy for a good roof.
Investing in quality materials
Choosing quality materials makes all the difference in doing a good job. Imagine that you decide to choose some types of ceramic tiles that are heavier and less resistant? It will certainly be much more difficult to build your roof from scratch and not damage these items.
Therefore, knowing which elements are necessary for the construction, as well as conducting a price survey to check which supplier offers above-average quality for a fair price is one of the main steps to ensure the durability of the tile and, of course, of your roof. As a consequence, you acquire items that are more resistant, durable, and that match your decorative style.
Do you realize how difficult roof infiltration can be for you and your family?
In addition to reducing the useful life of your materials, it damages the aesthetics of the environment, bringing discomfort to your home. In addition, when too advanced, it can cause respiratory problems and put your health at risk.
However, there are practical solutions that can effectively solve this problem, right? Whether by investing in the replacement of tiles and local waterproofing, or by renovating the roof, you can transform your quality of life and live in a pleasant and perfect place for you and your family.