A pitched roof, also known as a roof overhang, is a roof whose pitch either varies or is constant. The pitch, or level of the roof, is determined by adding additional lengths of wood, usually from a single root system, to the roof. In building, the pitched roof typically is used to gain a stronger structural anchor for one or several pitched walls. Also, a pitched roof isn’t actually a very old type of roof, and has been around for thousands of years.
A pitched roof can be constructed to many different types of roofing systems such as; a single story home, an attached garage, a one story ranch style home or any other type of structure that requires a continuous roof overhang. A single story home, for example, will usually have a straight roof overhang on one wall and a flexible roof for the second wall. The third wall is generally a straight wall and a free-standing joist system that is supported by several concrete pillars, or blocks. As one can see, the pitched roof system is very adaptable and very useful. For these reasons, it has become very popular for residential use.
However, if you are planning to use this style of roofing in a commercial or industrial setting, you will find that there are many different pitched roof types. In order to choose the right pitched roof for your application, you will want to take some time and consider what types of climate you typically deal with. If you live in a cold climate where the temperature stays well below freezing for extended periods of time, then you will probably need to select a roofing system that is steeper and offers a greater degree of insulation. Likewise, if you typically have hot sunny weather, then you will want a roof that is more curved and offers greater UV protection. This will also affect the pitch of the roof as well as the length of the pitch.
There are basically two types of pitched roof structures; the first is known as a saltbox roof and the second is called a truss system. Both of these systems consist of several individual trusses that are placed in a circle around the pitched roof. Most saltbox roofs have the two trusses connected either at one side or at both sides but some installations will use one side only. Regardless of which configuration you use, you will generally find that the trusses are connected by long wooden dowels that are placed in between each truss.
In addition to the long wooden dowels, you will also find that you need to install some type of fastening devices on the roof. Typically this would include either rafters or tiebacks. Rafters are placed on either side of the trusses while tiebacks are installed along one edge of the roof. These fasteners are used in order to keep the rafters from rubbing against each other and potentially causing damage to the roof.
In order to determine which type of roofing material would work best for your home, it will be necessary to speak with a local roofer. The roofer can take an assessment of your home’s needs and then recommend the best possible solution. You should also keep in mind that different types of materials work best for different climates. For example, asphalt shingles work best in hotter climates while metal roofing materials work best in colder climates. If you live in a temperate region where snow is common and the seasons are long, then you may want to consider purchasing an asphalt shingle roof for your home, but if you reside in a tropical or warm climate, then you may want to consider purchasing a metal roof.
