 |
| Chris helping out on the roof |
So, yes, finally we have finished balancing on battens and sliding on slates- the roof is officially finished! Hurrah! A mention here for Chris, who was a star, and Bart and Alix all of whom helped with the last bits of the roof. Thanks guys!
The process, predictably, was slowed by the hips and the valleys, but without any real difficulties.
Leading the valleys was interesting- what weird stuff lead is! It weighs so much yet is flexible and you can cut it with a knife. I was given some expert advice on this process. Because lead expands and contracts with temperature, if it is laid in long lengths it would buckle. I was told to cut it into no more than 1.5m lengths and then secure only on the top third, so just 6 copper nails. I hammered each length into the valley recess with a wooden block, and folded the edges back on themselves to add an extra lip, which covers the nail heads and is another barrier for water.
The
last of the roof process was to mortar the ridge and hip tiles on- this
was another balancing act, though this time on a roof ladder and the
ridge itself- not the most comfortable place to work!I am really pleased with the end result- I think it looks stunning and in keeping with the older of the local buildings. Time for a 'photo methinks....!
 |
| John and Sue helping with studwork |
My task now is to extend the upper floor joists to accommodate the straw walls so they will be built in two sections, upper and lower- a modification after discussions with Friederike who is to do the baling course in the spring.
Beyond that it is building the outer studwork, or buck frame. This will take the cladding and provide a structure for the windows and doors.
I am just in the process of writing another background post on the design process- keep an eye out for that over the next week or so....
Cheers for now, Anthony
Wow. Having the roof finished makes the building look really 'up' and very handsome. We just got a positive response from our local planners today to build a very similar house to yours in a Shropshire market town. Exciting and positive news but a little nail biting at the same time. Seeing your blog is making it feel really achievable for me. Thanks for taking the time to write and post photos. wonderful.
ReplyDeleteSorry I should have put this link to our embryonic blog for what it's worth!
ReplyDeletehttp://roundwoodhouse.org.uk
Great job, Anthony! With the roof done, it is easier to visualize what your new house will look like from the outside. Building your own house is something to be proud of. When do you expect to complete it?
ReplyDeleteKristopher Diss
Hurrah! The new roof was finally installed! You can now work on the interiors easily, knowing that you have a stable protection from all weather conditions. Take your time visualizing what you want or how you want the rest of the house to look like. Good luck, Anthony!
ReplyDelete-Allyson Duguay @ AffordableRoofingFlorida
Having the roof up definitely bolsters one’s initiative and resolve in getting the rest of the house to enjoy his new home. Hopefully you’re not having problems with your roofing and overall plumbing and insulation. It would be frustrating to have them just years after you’ve gotten it up. Have a good day!
ReplyDeleteRoslyn