RANGE REVIEW: OUTDOOR LIVING
ROOFING TOP TIPS TO ENHANCE OUTDOOR GARDEN BUILDINGS
Nisha Kumar, Head of Marketing at Onduline Building Products, shares essential tips and solutions to help elevate an outdoor garden building.
be a cosy retreat, a social hub, or even a workspace. But to ensure it serves its purpose effectively, the roof is one aspect that demands careful attention. From choosing the right materials through to proper ventilation and maintenance, there are multiple considerations DIY enthusiasts need to factor in before starting their next project.
O
Prioritise planning A common error among DIY enthusiasts during roof installation is diving into the project without sufficient planning. Effective planning entails evaluating the roof’s state, comprehending necessary materials, estimating project duration, and arranging essential tools. Neglecting these crucial steps can result in delays, exceeding your budget, and potential harm to the roof’s structural integrity. To sidestep this pitfall, dedicate time to researching and familiarising yourself with the roofing process. Develop a comprehensive plan encompassing measurements, material assessments, and a detailed installation roadmap. This approach provides a clear path forward, minimising the likelihood of mistakes during execution.
Choose materials wisely Selecting the right materials is paramount to the success and longevity of any roof installation on an outdoor building. Each material choice brings its own set of advantages and considerations. Metal roofing sheets, renowned for their resilience against harsh weather conditions and lightweight nature, are a popular option. However, they come with drawbacks such as susceptibility to denting and considerable noise. Plastic roofing sheets, whether PVC or polycarbonate, offer durability and lightness, along
14 DIY WEEK MAY 2024
utdoor garden buildings can be more
than just
a storage space. With modern trends, it can now
with excellent light filtration while blocking harmful UV rays, making them ideal for various applications. Yet, they can be prone to scratching and may incur a higher initial cost compared to other alternatives. Bitumen roofing sheets emerge as a compelling option, blending affordability with numerous benefits. Lightweight, durable, and capable of withstanding extreme weather, they also boast noise reduction, UV resistance, and eco-friendliness with a significant portion being crafted from recycled materials. With minimal maintenance requirements and straightforward installation, bitumen roofing sheets stand out as the most DIY-friendly, durable, and cost-effective solution.
Weatherproof your roof Considering the weather is paramount when selecting a roofing solution for a domestic outbuilding. A region’s climate dictates the roof’s durability and efficiency. In areas prone to heavy rainfall or snow, a pitched roof with adequate drainage channels is crucial to prevent water accumulation and potential structural damage. Additionally, wind-resistant materials are vital in storm-prone regions to prevent uplift and damage.
By accounting for weather conditions, you can ensure your outdoor building is shielded from the elements and remains a safe and comfortable space to use all year round.
Master installation techniques Poor installation techniques pose a threat to the effectiveness and durability of your roof. Among the frequent errors are improper nailing, incorrect underlay placement, insufficient ventilation, and flawed flashing installation, all of which can result in leaks, structural harm, and potential mould growth. To steer clear of these problems, it’s imperative to familiarise yourself with appropriate installation methods. Seek guidance from trusted roofing
sources and instructional videos. By investing effort into mastering the right techniques, you guarantee the success of your DIY roofing endeavour and secure dependable protection for the long haul.
Safety first Safety must remain paramount in any roofing endeavour. Regrettably, many DIY enthusiasts overlook safety protocols, resulting in accidents and injuries. Risks such as falls from heights, improper ladder usage, absence of protective gear, and electrical hazards are prevalent during roofing projects.
Always prioritise safety by utilising appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) tailored to the specific project requirements. This may include helmets, gloves, and non-slip footwear. Ensure the stability and proper positioning of your ladder. If necessary, seek assistance from a friend or family member to supervise and aid in the project. By taking these essential precautions, you’ll protect yourself and others involved in the roofing installation.
Ventilation matters Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your outdoor building’s roof. Without adequate ventilation, moisture can build up, leading to mould, rot, and other structural issues. Ensure your roof has sufficient vents or use breathable roofing solutions to allow for airflow, preventing these problems and extending the lifespan of your roof.
Insulate for year-round comfort To ensure your outdoor building is ready for year-round use, it’s essential to prioritise proper
insulation. Effective insulation not only regulates temperature but also keeps the space warm in colder months and cool during the summer. By insulating your outbuilding, you guarantee comfort and maximise its usability throughout every season.
Regular maintenance is key To ensure the longevity of your garden building’s roof, regular maintenance is essential. Clean debris such as leaves and branches from the roof surface and inspect the roof for any signs of damage or wear, and address issues promptly to prevent them from worsening. A proactive approach to maintenance will help extend the life of your roof and preserve the integrity of your garden building. Roofing, re-roofing, or waterproofing outbuildings stands as a critical DIY challenge for homeowners due to its direct impact on the structure’s longevity, resilience against the elements, and overall aesthetic appeal. A properly constructed and weatherproofed roof not only safeguards the contents within but also enhances the value and usability of the outbuilding. With Onduline’s range of
roofing systems, DIY enthusiasts are empowered with durable, easy-to-install solutions tailored to withstand diverse weather conditions. Whether it’s a garden shed, workshop, or home office, Onduline offers solutions designed to ensure optimal protection and longevity, providing homeowners peace of mind and confidence in their DIY endeavours.
For more information on Onduline’s roofing solutions, visit
www.onduline.co.uk.
www.diyweek.net
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40
