Hi all,
I have a block-built, single-skinned outbuilding, which I am planning on converting into a workshop:
I want to fit a new roof to the building. Ideally, the roof should satisfy the following criteria: it should let in some natural light (there is only one small window), it shouldn't overheat in summer, it should be bearable in winter, it should be possible to do it as a DIY job.
I think I have the following options, but I would appreciate some comments as to their feasibility:
- Twin/triple wall polycarbonate, supported on timber joists running the length of the building (apparently they can't be supported on beams running across the building as that wouldn't provide sufficient support, and having self-supporting beams would be too expensive). Would this get too hot in summer? Would it be warm enough in winter?
- Solid roof, covered in EPDM, with one or two skylights. I think that this would keep the workshop at a more stable temperature. Having looked at the way my garage roof is constructed (wood strips on top of the walls, joists on top of those, fascias around the edge, and plyboard on top) I am sure I could build something like that myself, but do the same basic principles apply to a roof on a 4.7 degree slope? Does anyone know of any guide on the web, or a book, that details how to construct such a roof?
With the second option, the only skylights I have found seem to stick up quite a long way (20cm or so) above the roof (the kerb), with a dome on top of that. Does anyone sell skylights which have a lower kerb?
Thanks,
dan.