How to install a timber roof

Installing a timber roof is a challenging project - this article is aimed at giving you a step by step guide on how to install a timber roof safely.

Hire a professional to install
your timber roof correctly

Timber roofs are growing in popularity, to install one a professional builder or roofer will:

1. Carefully review the blueprints to your house, making sure they know the exact measurements of the roof. Alongside this, check all the walls to make sure they don’t need any repairs prior to installing a timber roof.
2. A local timber yard in your area will be able to supply you with all the timber needed to safely install a timber roof at a reasonable price – your builder may also be able to get hold of good quality, cheap timber for you.
3. Order your trusses from the timber yard specifically stating the size of rafters you need to install on your timber roof. Other details to consider when ordering the trusses for your timber roof are the location of your ceiling joints and the length of overhang on your home.
4. Once you have ordered your trusses and wood, your timber roof is ready to be installed. First off the roof needs framing, this involves placing the trusses one at a time across the rafter ties spacing out accordingly. To hold them in place, a temporary brace is installed while applying plywood boards across the whole of the timber roof. This is repeated until the whole of the timber roof is covered – there should be no substantial gaps but an overlay around the edges is needed.
5. The timber is then placed onto the boards, carefully making sure there are no gaps in-between. Make sure to securely nail them tightly to the plywood board but be careful not to split the timber.
6. A strong sealant and waterproof mixture is thoroughly applied over the whole timber roof. It may be a good idea to apply more than one coat to ensure your roof wont leak
7. Applying roof cement to each nail used on the roof will bolster it even further.
8. A professional builder will thoroughly check your new timber roof once finished to make sure it is safe and meets required building regulations.

How much does a timber roof cost?

Depending on where you decide to purchase the wood for your timber roof, most prices will vary. Online it is possible to pick up timber rafters for around £5.00-£6.00 each. However, this does entirely depend on the size of the house in question as a bigger house will cost considerably more. Buying in bulk from a timber yard in person, may work out to be the cheapest option as most places will come to an agreement if buying in bulk.

Installing a timber roof can be a very difficult process and cause a lot of physical strain. Hiring a professional builder or roofer will ensure you get the best results.