While it is not within the scope of this guide to provide detailed instruction in the actual construction of a porch we feel it is important to have at least a basic knowledge of the structural aspects as they greatly effect the overall success of any porch.
Parts of a wooden roof.
Proper porch design is not possible without an understanding of the structural components.
Rafters these are wooden beams that run from the top of the roof to the bottom.
Hip this is an external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes.
Cornice the wood or metal finishing at ends or edges.
When replacing roof decking you first need to get rid of the old rotten section.
There are many types of roof trusses as wall as many types of roofs more types than there are parts.
Parts of a roof.
This article and series of illustrated diagrams shows you all the parts of a basic roof truss king truss and queen truss.
Mansard roof or gambrel roof the lower part of the roof does not need to be ventilated.
Using seasoned or dry wood for building the sheathing prevents the wood from buckling or pulling away as the wood dries.
However the attic section should be ventilated according to the same standards as those for ordinary attic roofs.
The rafters when combined together help to form the truss.
The same roof has a 4 12 or 1 3 pitch.
A composite decking made of solid materials it resembles real wood and particularly strong and stable for bearing heavy load.
Slope a roof s slope is the number of inches it rises for every 12 inches of horizontal run a roof with a 4 in 12 slope rises 4 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run.
Sheathing is a layer used as the base of the roof.
This layer covers the rafters and is beneath the shingles and membrane layers.
Set the depth of your circular saw to the thickness of the roof decking.
A few definitions may make it easier for you to communicate with roofers.
You may need to cut a little extra to expose enough of the trusses and make sure you get rid of all the rotten wood.
Truss the truss is a framework comprised of wooden beams that helps to support the roof.
Plain flashing is where the roof meets the vertical surface horizontally.
It is possible to add air intake vents along the base of the upper part.
Other parts of the roof are nailed to this later.
Cut away the damaged area.
The roof truss structure and design is integral to roof structural integrity and shape.
A horizontal timber or metal resting at the peak of the roof the rafters and trusses are connected to the ridge board for a cohesive framework.
A measurement of roof area that equals 100 square feet an area 10 feet by 10 feet.