What is involved in the 'Total Replacement,' of a roof?

[Phil473]

Following on from another thread, I'm considering replacing the whole roof, as the occasional repair has been proving costly.

I'm new to this, so bear with me. When we say 'roof replacement,' as opposed to 're roof,' does a roof replacement involve the complete replacement of the entire wooden structure in the loft? Or is it generally the case that the support structure (beams, rafters etc) are in good enough condition to be reused?

 

[noseall]

Following on from another thread, I'm considering replacing the whole roof, as the occasional repair has been proving costly.

I'm new to this, so bear with me. When we say 'roof replacement,' as opposed to 're roof,' does a roof replacement involve the complete replacement of the entire wooden structure in the loft? Or is it generally the case that the support structure (beams, rafters etc) are in good enough condition to be reused?

It’s difficult to distinguish whether you are taking about the roof or the roof covering?

 

[stevie888]

Loosely speaking the terms are interchangeable. You only really need to worry about the timbers if there's any damage (rot, physical) or if you are substantially changing the loading on the roof by using heavier tiles which might require structural reinforcement

It would be the height of folly to do all the other work without making sure the timbers are ok but you do need to be careful to employ honest guys so you're not giving peeps a blank cheque.. A detailed schedule of works is required before you start: are any lead flashings to be used or replaced etc

 

[Phil473]

Good point regarding weight, I'm considering concrete tiles. Currently we have the old clay tiles; would I be correct in saying concrete tiles are generally heavier?

Do homeowners going from clay to concrete, have their existing roof support altered?

Any issues with heavier tiles, and walls of house?

 

[noseall]

Good point regarding weight, I'm considering concrete tiles. Currently we have the old clay tiles; would I be correct in saying concrete tiles are generally heavier?

No. Concrete are generally lighter. Slates lighter still.

Do homeowners going from clay to concrete, have their existing roof support altered?

Structurally? Not especially no.

Any issues with heavier tiles, and walls of house?

No.