Timber roof systems
STEICO’s timber roof system components, which include timber joists, insulation, sarking boards and vapour control layers, can help you create a timber roof system that is a perfect fit for your project. Timber roof systems are a common roof type used across the UK, especially for residential buildings. They can be flat or pitched, but whatever type of timber roof you choose they all bear certain similarities. Furthermore, they can all be constructed using STEICO products which offer benefits across the construction and lifecycle of your roof.
What are timber roof systems made up of?
The primary structure of most timber roofs are made up of the following elements:
- Beams – Roof beams are the primary load bearing element of the roof, supporting the structure and ensuring it doesn’t lean or spread. They span the length of the roof space and also strengthen the walls below.
- Joists – Roof joists are laid horizontally and work with beams to support the structure of the roof. They join opposing walls to ensure the weight of the roof is spread evenly.
- Rafters – Laid parallel from the ridges to the eaves, rafters provide the shape for pitched roofs and are joined at the apex of the roof.
- Trusses – Roof trusses are structural frameworks, often triangular in shape, that bridge the roof space and support the rafters.
Timber roofs also feature a range of non-structural items which are nevertheless important parts of the overall structure, including:
- Insulation – Laid between the rafters or joists, or on top of the rafters, to improve the thermal performance of the building.
- Timber sarking and sheathing boards – Thin softwood boards attached to the rafters on a pitched roof system to provide extra support and strength.
- Vapour control layer – A vital part of any roof system, the vapour control layer helps control the movement of moisture through the roof to protect the overall roof structure and improve thermal performance.
What STEICO products can be used to help form a timber roof system?
STEICO’s range includes many products which can be used in timber roof systems and offer potential benefits to your overall project, including:
- Joists – STEICOjoist combine Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) and Natural Fibre Boards to create a joist which is resistant to shrinkage and twisting thanks to a moisture content of just 9%. They also offer a slimmer profile which also allows for more insulation to be installed, potentially improving the u-value of the roof system and helping the roof system contribute to your sustainability goals.
- Timber sarking and sheathing boards – A range of boards which offer a degree of protection from cold, rain and wind as part of the overall roof system. Made from PEFC accredited timber (PEFC/04-31-2550) so they are suitable for environmentally conscious builds.
- Vapour control layer – STEICO vapour control membranes help regulate humidity and condensation which can damage the timber roof structure, playing a role in the overall sustainability strategy of the building and contributing to a healthier environment for occupants.
- Insulation – STEICOzell air-injected insulation and STEICOflex wood fibre flexible insulation batts are both suitable for use in a timber roof system. They are made from responsibly sourced timber, bind carbon during Lifecycle Stage A1 as defined in EN 15804+A2. They also have insulating properties which can help reduce energy consumption when specified and installed correctly.
Why is timber a good choice for roof systems?
Timber offers a range of advantages for roof construction when specified and installed appropriately, including:
- Weight – Timber is a lighter option than concrete or steel for structural elements, so it puts less strain on the overall building when installed.
- Sustainability goals – Timber can be sourced responsibly from PEFC-certified forests, and it binds carbon from the atmosphere.
- Ease – Timber can be worked using common tools and techniques. The production process is also often much faster than concrete or steel.
