How To Support Roof Purlins In Reading

Are you in the process of building a new home or undergoing construction work on your commercial or residential property in Reading, Berkshire? If so, it's vital that you have the right support in place for the structural framework of your roof.

Roofing contractors and builders know that one of the most essential components of a roof's structural system is the purlin. Purlins are horizontal support beams that run across the length of the roof or the building's shape, providing the necessary support for the roof and transferring the roof load to the primary structural framework of the building.

At A1 Roofing Reading, our roofing experts have vast experience in designing and constructing roofs with adequate purlin support that meets structural requirements while being visually appealing. In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about supporting roof purlins in Reading.

Understanding Purlins and Their Role in Building Construction

Purlins are structural components that are typically areas where heavy loads accumulate, making them crucial to ensure that the roof's weight distributes uniformly. If installed correctly, purlins provide the necessary framework that supports the roof structure, resisting wind, rain, and snow forces.

The primary functions of purlins in building construction include:

• Providing stable support for the roof structure
• Transferring the roof load to the main structure of the building
• Acting as a platform for sheeting to be placed on.

When designing a building, constructors need to consider the types and sizes of purlins required to support the load safely. They also need to consider the type of roof sheeting of the proper thickness needed depending on the roofing span and structural requirements. Purlins mainly distribute the roof load between the support points, ensuring the roof sheeting and tiles position is stable.

Types of Purlins

There are three types of purlins typically used in construction, namely:

1. Steel Purlins

Steel purlins are the most common type used in commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. They are easy to fabricate and offer a range of benefits, including high strength, versatility, and affordability. Besides, steel is corrosion-resistant and, therefore, requires minimal maintenance.

The steel profile produced can be with a thickness of 6mm-8mm with the same advantages as thicker profiles, which ultimately reduces cost while retaining the load required.

2. Timber Purlins

Timber purlins are commonly used in traditional and historic properties. Often, the purlin size and type are determined by surveyors and architects responsible for restoring or renovating historic buildings. Wood is an organic material that can rot, warp, shrink or expand with changes in weather conditions, making it challenging to maintain.

3. Glulam Purlins

Glued laminated timber (glulam) purlins are engineered timber purlins typically used for roofing spans over 5 metres. Glulam purlins are bonded together with plywood or restructured veneers using strong adhesives, producing a lightweight, strong, and durable material. Glulam purlins usually have a more favourable environmental and sustainable impact while being subject to a higher cost.

Construction to Support Purlins

When constructing or repairing a roof, builders consider several factors, including the type of purlins to be used, the layout, the roofing span, and structural design specifications. Understanding the purlins' position and type is vital, especially to reduce the risk of roof collapse.

To support purlins adequately, consider incorporating the following essential features in the roof:

Ridge beams

The ridge beam is the point where the two sloping roof planes come together. It supports the roof load and collects the weight of the internal and external walls up to the outer bearing supports.

Rafters

Roof rafters are sloping structural beams that connect to the ridge beam and span to the eave or the fascia. The rafter bears the roof's weight and transfers some of the load to the ceiling joists.

Roof trusses

Roof trusses are triangular wooden or steel structures that support the roof weight span-wise. They distribute the weight to the support points and the purlins, reducing the total dead load on the roof structure.

Purlin sections

Purlin sections connected to the roofing supporting material create a structural framework across the roof location. They help support and distribute the roofing weight to the primary structural framework of the building with uniform loads.

Installing Purlins in Reading

When installing purlins in Reading, make sure:

1. They are spaced correctly: Roof purlins must be spaced along the roof appropriately to ensure that the roof is adequately supported. Incorrect spacing can lead to the roof sagging or even collapsing, leading to significant damage to the building.

2. They are joined appropriately: When joining purlins together, make sure they are placed so that their ends sit squarely and distributed appropriately. Bolt all purlins together and secure them with braces if the roof design permits it.

3. Use the right materials: The materials used to install the purlins should be of high quality to pass load-bearing standards. The sheets should be affixed using the appropriate fasteners to the right quality studs.

4. Use the right tolerances: understanding the tolerances required for purlins placement is critical. using a level tool ensures they are not sloping, making them unstable.

The Importance of Professional Support

Although understanding how to install purlins may seem straightforward, it requires precision and experience. If you're thinking of installing purlins on your property in Reading, hiring a professional roofing company is essential to ensure you get it right from the start.

A1 Roofing Reading is a roofing contractor in Reading, who is experienced in designing and installing roofs with adequate purlin support. Contact us today on 0118 449 2361 or email us at [email protected] to get professional advice.

Staying Safe While Enjoying the View

When evaluating or installing roofing purlins, there are several guidelines to observe to ensure safety. Roofing can be especially dangerous due to working at heights, ladders, and other hazards. Below are safety guidelines to follow;

1. Use appropriate safety gear: it's essential to wear appropriate safety gear when working on a roof. This includes a safety harness, hard hat, and footwear with slip-resistant soles.

2. Use scaffolding and platforms: using reliable and appropriate scaffolding below the work area when required is essential. Placing your equipment on a stable platform may prevent injury from slipping.

3. Don't exceed weight tolerances: it's vital to understand the appropriate weight and procedures to move heavy materials around the workspace safely.

4. Use the appropriate tools: using the right tools for the job is essential. A circular saw, for example, might be an excellent tool for cutting purlins, but it's important to use it properly to avoid injury.

Conclusion

In summary, roof purlins provide a vital supporting structure for a building's roof structure. They bear the weight of the roofing materials and transfer it to the building's main structure, acting as a bridge between the roofing panels and the structure to help keep the roof stable.

Having the right purlin support is critical to keeping your building safe and free from damage. At A1 Roofing Reading, we have vast experience in supporting roof purlins in Reading. Our roofing services incorporate rigorously tested structural designs and materials that follow industry standards, ensuring the purlins are installed correctly.

Contact us today if you're in Reading, Berkshire, or South East England and in need of roofing services. For more information on purlins and roofing, please visit our website at a1-roofing-reading.co.uk.