The standing seam trays of zinc roof are not self-supporting and require substrate against which their clips are fixed and they can rest. You can either keep the substrate vented or keep it unvented but it is essential to execute the roof build-up correctly to avoid interstitial condensation risks that could damage the roof. Here are the tips to execute the roof build-ups properly.
Build a ventilated zinc roof
If you have a zinc roof you can keep it sage and long lasting by creating a ventilated roof. All you need to do is create a ventilated layer over the zinc roof. To create a ventilated layer follow the given instructions:
- Create a ventilating layer of height of 5cm. This is the minimum height specification and you can increase the height according to your requirement. You can increase the height to 10 cm in case you have a low pitch and long eaves to the ridge measurement.
- Support the ventilated zinc roofs by providing direct support through an open gap of OSB sheathing, softwood boarding, or a plywood laid parallel to the staggered and the gutter.
- You can put a breather membrane if you reside in cold areas. The membrane will provide insulation against cold wind that enter the ventilation gap from the outside.
Warm zinc roof buildup with timber board
The timber insulating board is a factory bonded board that is effectively fixed with the zinc roof through a vapor barrier downside the decking. However, you need to have a vapor barrier that is capable of self-sealing against all aps and fixings. You should also invest some time in sealing and taping the roof penetrations and laps. You need to cover the exterior portion of the insulating board with a grade plywood of eighteen mmm thickness. The vapor barrier has the most basic function in the entire design.
Warm zinc roof buildup with fast fixings
The fast fixing barrier also addressed as the ‘warm fast fixing’ vapor barrier has a high performance expectation whose function is also fundamental in the entire design. The vapor barrier must be able to self-seal itself against warm fast fixing types. You also need to tape and properly seal the roof penetrations and laps and tape them as well. The insulation must be strong enough to withstand traffic and must not deform in any way during its service. The support decking can be made of steel or timber. And you need to fix the zinc using one screw per clip.
Ridge vents
You basically install a ridge vent on your zinc roof’s ridge and then cover them with shingles. A good thing about them is that they have no moving parts. But you need to install them properly and pair them with the right intake vents to make them work smoothly. The best part about using these vents is it does not create any cold or hot areas on your roof, thereby preventing them from ageing.
These are the various ways you can protect a zinc roof build-up. For further advice or for a roof inspection, please contact the experienced and friendly team at The Slate Roofing Company today for a no obligation quote for your Zinc roof.
