The Business of Roofs and Roofing
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When buying an older property always ask the agent or owner about the roof even if it appears sound, BUT if in doubt speak to us as it could save you thousands.
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Whilst it doesn't rain very much in this region, it does boast loads of sunshine. Why not talk to us about a Roof Terrace. |
We are specialists and can deal with all roofing requirements. New Roofs, Raising Roof, Skylights,
Roof Overhaul. |
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If you are buying a property in this region with a traditional roof it is without doubt the best roof covering you can find.
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| This is a multi lap system using tuile canal - which is best described as 'unders & overs' in English. It is very labour intensive work using a method refined during several hundred years. In virtually all cases the 'over' tiles are mortar bedded onto the side wings of the 'unders', then pointed to finish and brushed clean. It is slow back breaking work - but if done properly will last a 100 years. |
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The alternative is the interlock tile covering (mechanical roof in French), a single lap system used since the 1920’s. At higher altitudes, above Olette, you will find slate covering, normally known as Rondelles.In general new build work from the seventies onwards is not yet in need of major work, minor repairs may crop up and can be dealt with quickly providing original tiles are still standard stock items.
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| With the traditional system the over tiles shed all rainwater into the 'unders' so it is always the 'unders' that are the cause of any major leaks. The lower down the roof that an 'under' is broken or cracked the worse the leak. Problems can arise from faults developing in the sub roof. Where bamboo cane mat was used as the sub roof over timber rafters, the string used to weave the mat together can eventually rot, causing the weight of the tiles to push the weakened material apart. |
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Another common sub roof used locally is made of rectangular clay brickets or 'tommets' laid over rafters. Any problems with these can be clearly seen from the undersides. This is a very heavy sub roof and the timber supports can cause problems, BUT when renovated, makes a wonderful feature.
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Lastly, but most importantly, are the support beams, which hold up the whole structure. In general these run across the building entering the side walls by between 10cm and 50cm, but they can also be laid lengthwise with the rafters placed horizontally. Both are subject to wet rot, rat infestation can also cause problems at entry points. All properties now sold in this area must carry an up to date termite inspection certificate so this is not usually an issue.
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