NHBC Standards 2023 7

Flat roofs, terraces
and balconies
Chapter 7.1
This chapter gives guidance on meeting the
Technical Requirements for flat roofs, terraces
and balconies.
7.1.1 Compliance 02
7.1.2 Provision of information 03
7.1.3 Flat roof, terrace and balcony
general design 03
7.1.4 Drainage 05
7.1.5 Flat roof, terrace and balcony
structural design 07
7.1.6 Timber structure and deck 08
7.1.7 Concrete decks 11
7.1.8 Profiled self-supporting metal decks 12
7.1.9 Profiled self-supporting metal
roofing 13
7.1.10 Thermal insulation and
vapour control 15
7.1.11 Waterproofing layer and
surface treatments 18
7.1.12 Green and biodiverse (brown)
roofs – including roof gardens 23
7.1.13 Blue roofs 24
7.1.14 Raised podium 25
7.1.15 Detailing of flat roofs 25
7.1.16 Accessible thresholds and upstands 28
7.1.17 Parapets and guarding to
terraces and balconies 30
1 Flat roofs, terraces and balconies 2023
Chapter 7.1
Definitions for this chapter

For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
Air and vapour control Continuous layer of impermeable material to prevent the movement of air and water vapour.
layer (AVCL)
Balcony Accessible external amenity platform over an open space above ground level, with direct access
from a building.
Balconies may take the form of:
access balcony – providing pedestrian access to two or more dwellings. (Sometimes referred
to as a ‘walkway’ or ‘access deck’)
enclosed – protected from rain by a roof or balcony above and walls or weather screens to the
sides, (sometimes referred to as a ‘winter garden’)
freestanding – fully, or partially, supported independent of the building structure
inset – recessed inwards from the external wall line of a building
open – has guarding but no other form of vertical enclosure
projecting – cantilevered from the external wall line of a building.
Biodiverse (brown) roof Surface often of rubble, site excavated soil, sometimes with the inclusion of logs and rocks etc. to
replicate the ecology of the local area and seeded or left to self-seed.
Blue roof Roof installation designed for temporary attenuation of rainwater to delay entry into the urban
drainage system and prevent flooding (Blue Roofs are not for water storage use).
Cold roof Insulation below the deck with a ventilated void between the deck and breather membrane
supported on the insulation.
Deck The structural substrate, including timber boarding or sheeting, profiled metal sheeting on joists/
purlins or, the upper surface of in situ or pre-cast concrete and any applied screed.
Design fall The fall that a roof should be designed at to accommodate initial and long-term deflection and
achieve at least the required ‘finished fall’ in use. The ‘Design fall’ is normal taken as twice the
‘Finished fall.’
Finished fall The minimum fall that should be achieved on the waterproofing layer once the roof has been
installed and fully loaded.
Firring A tapered batten which creates a fall to a timber deck.
Flat roof A roof with a maximum slope of 10 degrees from the horizontal.
Flat roof build-up The roof components above the deck including, as applicable, AVCL, insulation, waterproofing
layer, and surface finish/topping.
Fully supported hard Flat hard metal sheeting forming the weather skin and fully supported on a deck.
metal roofing
Fully supported soft Soft metal sheeting (lead) forming the weather skin and fully supported on a deck
metal roofing
7.1
Green roof - extensive Roof topping of a shallow growing medium supporting plants such as sedums, grasses,
wildflower species etc. Generally low maintenance and access for maintenance only.
Green roof - intensive Roof topping of a growing medium to support trees, shrubs, lawns etc. and may include hard
landscaping, and used as an amenity space (sometimes referred to as a Roof Garden).
Interstitial condensation Condensation that occurs within or between layers of construction.
Inverted warm roof A roof with Insulation placed directly above the waterproofing layer.
Paving/Decking A protection layer on which people walk, above the waterproofing layer, on a balcony or terrace.
Profiled self-supporting Profiled metal deck, spanning between structural supports e.g. purlins, and supporting the flat roof
metal deck build-up
Profiled self-supporting Profiled metal sheeting forming the weather skin and spanning between structural supports
metal roofing e.g. purlins.
Flat roofs, terraces and balconies 2023 2
Chapter 7.1
Terrace External surface for amenity use, above an internal space, above ground level and with direct
access from a building. For waterproofing and thermal purposes, a terrace is treated as a flat roof.
Terraces may take the form of:
private terrace – for the use of a single dwelling
access terrace – providing pedestrian access to two or more dwellings (Sometimes referred to
as a ‘walkway’ or ‘access deck’)
raised podium – a terrace, other than an access terrace, above ground level, over a
non-habitable area(s) such as a car park or plant room(s). The podium itself may provide hard
and/or soft landscaped amenity areas
buried podium is a roof structure at, or below, ground level with hard and/or soft landscaping
and sometimes vehicular access for emergency vehicles or parking. Waterproofing to the
podium is linked to the tanking of the basement structure below, as described in Chapter 5.4.
Warm roof A roof with Insulation placed directly below the waterproofing layer.
Water flow reducing A vapour permeable loose laid layer, resistant to water, UV, and rot, used to reduce the flow of
layer (WFRL) water and fines into the insulation layer in an inverted warm roof system.
Waterproofing layer Layer of impermeable flexible material forming the primary barrier to water ingress.
Zero fall roofs Roofs with a finished slope which lies between 0 and 1:80 and which achieve a finished drained
surface that has no back falls or ponding
7.1.1 Compliance Also see: Chapter 2.1
Flat roofs, terraces and balconies shall comply with the Technical Requirements
Flat roofs, terraces and balconies which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable to NHBC.
Other sources of information include:
BS 6229 Flat roofs with continuously supported flexible CIRIA C753 SuDS Manual 2015
waterproof coverings. Code of practice National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC)
BS 8579 Guide to the design of balconies and terraces – e.g. NFRC Technical Guidance Note for Construction and
BS 8217 Reinforced bitumen membranes for roofing. Design of Blue Roofs. Roofs and podiums with controlled
Code of practice temporary water attenuation
BS 8218 Code of practice for mastic asphalt roofing Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) Mastic asphalt
BS 8747 Reinforced bitumen membranes for roofing – The technical guide
BS 5250 Code of practice for control of condensation in Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA) Single Ply:
buildings Design Guide
BS 5427 Code of practice for the use of profiled sheet for Federation of Traditional Metal Roofing Contractors
roof and wall cladding on buildings (FTMRC) ‘UK Guide to Good Practice – 3rd edition’
7.1
BS 6915 Design and construction of fully supported lead Lead Contractors Association ‘Lead Sheet in Roofing.
sheet roof and wall coverings. Code of practice The Ultimate Guide to Best Practice’
BS EN 507 Roofing products from metal sheet – Lead Sheet Training Academy ‘The complete manual’
Specification for fully supported roofing products of The GRO Green roof code of practice for the UK
aluminium sheet The Green Roof Organisation GRO fire risk guidance
BS EN 1090-4 Execution of steel structures and aluminium document
structures. Technical requirements for cold-formed structural Roofing and Waterproofing Test Association (RAWTA)
steel elements and cold-formed structures for roof, ceiling, Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA)
floor and wall applications Code of Practice Specification and Use of Liquid Applied
BS EN 12056 Gravity Drainage Systems inside buildings. Waterproofing systems for Roofs, Balconies and Walkways
Part 3 Roof drainage, layout and calculation Siphonic Roof Drainage Association (SRDA) A guide to
BS 8490 Guide to siphonic roof drainage systems Siphonic Roof Drainage
BS 8204 Screeds, bases and in situ floorings Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association
(MCRMA).
Where a flat roof or terrace is above another home, it should provide satisfactory acoustic performance in accordance with
relevant building regulations.
Where applicable, flat roofs, balconies and terraces should meet the relevant fire protection requirements in accordance with
relevant building regulations.
Chapter 7.1
7.1.2 Provision of information

Designs and specifications shall be produced in a clear understandable format, include all relevant
information and be distributed to all appropriate personnel.
Design and specification information should be issued to NHBC, site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and
suppliers, and include the following:
extent and direction of falls, and position of outlets to details at critical junctions
provide effective drainage with no back falls. A roof details of fixings, their frequency and fixing method,
deflection analysis should be provided for medium to large including those for insulation and surfacing
roofs and those with complex roof layouts specification for intensive and extensive green roofs,
sections through the construction, including how falls biodiverse roofs, or Blue roofs
are formed details and fixing methods of balcony support and
method of ventilating voids where ventilation is required. guarding components
size, specification and position of the components, including survey requirements and preparation treatment of deck
treatment for durability and the position and extent of the before application of waterproofing
air and vapour control layer, insulation and method of testing the integrity of the waterproofing layer.
waterproofing layers
7.1.3 Flat roof, terrace and balcony general design

The flat roof, terrace and balcony construction should suit the design and intended use.
The design of the flat roof, terrace (including podiums), or balcony, should adopt one or more of the following forms of construction.
Note
The suitability of any combination of deck, insulation, blue roof attenuation, and roof toppings, will depend on the structural loadings and the capability of the deck and
insulation to safely support those loads in accordance with the Structural Engineer’s design.
Individual Elements
Solid RC Deck Composite RC deck Warm roof
waterproofing layer waterproofing layer
screed insulation
AVCL
concrete slab
with and without
permanent
shuttering
Cold roof
waterproofing layer
7.1
ceiling finish
counter battens or suspended ceiling system deck

firring and ventilated
breather roof void (min 50mm)
membrane
trapezoidal steel deck joists with insulation

with board to support between
warm or inverted warm
roof and without board
to support warm roof AVCL
counter batten
ceiling finish
counter battens or suspended ceiling system ceiling finish
deck
Inverted warm roof
joists WFRL
insulation
waterproofing layer
ceiling finish
Chapter 7.1
Roof toppings
Green Roofs
green roof with intensive planting
green roof with extensive planting
growing medium
growing medium
filter layer/reservoir
root barrier over waterproofing layer filter layer

drainage reservoir
Paved Roof root barrier
(positioned on waterproofing layer)
hard paving
bedding hard paving on pedestals
drainage layer
rounded 20-40mm shingle ballast
Roof, terrace, and balcony constructions using the individual elements

Uninsulated decks
toppings
waterproofing layer
Warm roof construction
toppings
waterproofing layer
7.1
Inverted warm roof construction
toppings
waterproofing layer
Chapter 7.1
Cold roof construction Blue roof make up
roof topping e.g. green roof,

hard landscaping
void formers for temporary water

retention and controlled drainage
warm roof or inverted warm roof
structural deck
7.1.4 Drainage
Flat roofs, balconies and terraces shall have adequate and effective rainwater drainage to a suitable outfall.
Issues to be considered include:
a) drainage system c) zero fall roofs
b) falls d) deck survey.
Drainage system
A drainage system of outlets and downpipes should be:
provided to all flat roof, balcony and terrace areas installed ensuring any gutters, including box gutters,
of sufficient size to accommodate normal rainfall and sized are provided with stop ends where applicable, and with
to cope with concentrated flows including the accumulative sufficient falls to provide effective drainage to
effect of one roof draining on to another outlets/downpipes
fixed in accordance with the design and supported and provided with overflow(s) to avoid flooding in the event of
jointed in accordance with the one or more drainage outlets becoming blocked.
manufacturer’s recommendations
Where a downpipe discharges above ground level, or above a drainage gully, the downpipe should be fitted with a shoe.
A design approach for free draining balconies can be accepted if rainwater will always be routed away from the building to drain
via a suitably formed soffit drainage tray that directs water to run outwards over a continuous formed perimeter edge. But where
this drainage design is installed for stacked balconies on multi-storey elevations - the rainwater will tend to cascade down from
these edge drainage slots as water runs off each balcony.
Under typical wind driven rainstorm conditions the water runoff volumes from these balcony catchment surfaces will
progressively increase in a downward direction until the full volume of water reaches ground level. This can adversely affect
7.1
locations such as main entrances to apartment buildings as well as any access doorways and private gardens of individual
homes situated at ground level.
Therefore, in addition to the free draining balcony design there is a requirement for design of ground level drainage to effectively
prevent ponding or flooding of water. This drainage design is required along all building perimeter locations where thresholds,
access locations and other places of regular use will exist.
Rainwater outlets should:
be of the size and number required to deal with the expected be accessible for maintenance
rainfall intensity in accordance with BS EN 12056-3 be insulated to avoid surface condensation on the outlet
be positioned to provide effective drainage to all areas of and downpipe if passing through habitable areas.
the roof
be recessed to facilitate the free flow of water without
forming ponding at the junction with the waterproofing layer
Chapter 7.1
Where a flat roof, balcony or terrace has an upstand on all sides, drainage should consist of a minimum of two outlets connected
to separate downpipes, or one outlet plus an overflow. The overflow should be:
provided through parapet walls or perimeter upstands of higher capacity than the combined capacity of the
sized for effective Flow rate and positioned to prevent other outlet(s)
water from entering the building, particularly in relation to positioned to discharge safely away from the building
door thresholds and low window sills be visible when in operation.
Falls
The finished roof, balcony or terrace should have effective drainage to the outlet(s) without creating back falls or ponding on the
waterproofing layer and WFRL where fitted.
For medium to large, and complex roof layouts and roofs where the ‘design fall’, as shown in Table 2, is not used for the design,
a detailed analysis should be undertaken to establish overall and local deflection, under load and long-term creep, and direction
of falls. Allowances should be included for workmanship and construction tolerances particularly with steel frame erection
tolerances. The effects of localised loadings from features such as planters, service equipment, etc. should be included in
the design.
The design should show how ponding will be avoided, e.g. by placing outlets at points of maximum deflection, by use of a
screed, use of tapered insulation, or firrings, to take out the deflection and form falls to outlets.
Where falls are formed by use of screeds follow the guidance in clause 7.1.8.
Where tapered insulation is used:

drainage should be designed by the insulation it should be installed directly onto the air and vapour control
manufacturer, with ‘design’ falls of no less than 1:60 layer, with the primary waterproofing layer above
installation should comply with the design and changes in the direction of falls should be formed with
manufacturer’s recommendations mitred joints
the sequence of installation should ensure that boards are successive roof layers should be installed with a minimum
waterproofed, and the roof sealed at the end of each day, or of delay, to avoid trapping water during construction.
before the arrival of inclement weather
Firring pieces should be:
used to form falls, unless the design specifies a sloping joist adequately fixed to the joists in accordance with the design.
or ceiling
of the size given in Table 1 where installed across the joists
Table 1: Size of firring pieces used to from falls

Joist centres (mm) Minimum width (mm) Minimum depth (mm)
400 or 450 38 38
7.1
600 38 50
Where a detailed analysis is not undertaken the roof should be

designed with a ‘design fall’ that caters for initial and long-term
deflection to ensure the ‘finished fall’ provides effective drain-
age without back falls or ponding.
Solid or engineered joists
Firrings fixed perpendicular

to joists
Chapter 7.1
Table 2: Suggested ‘Design’ falls for various roof types

Type of roof Design fall Minimum finished fall
Membrane and liquid applied waterproofing 1:40 ³ 1:80
Profiled metal roof system (self-supporting) 5.5 (1:10)
0 1
40 (1:14) 2
Profiled metal roof (fully supported) 6.50 (1:9) 50 (1:12) 4
Standing seam roof system (self-supporting) 2.5 (1:23)
0 1
10 (1:60) 4
Flat sheet hard metal roof 1:40 ³ 50 (1:12) 4
(fully supported)
Lead roof 1:40 ³ 1:80
(fully supported)
Green/biodiverse roof 1:40 ³ 1:80 (at drainage level)
Blue roof 1:40 ³ 1:80 (see also Zero fall roofs)
Tapered insulation 1:60 ³ 1:80
Notes
1 The supporting structure should be designed at a pitch of 1.5° more than the minimum pitch for the sheeting, or the designed roof slope, to allow for tolerances
and onsite variations, unless justified by a detailed structural analysis of the main frame and secondary steelwork to account for deflection/settlement.
2 Based on through fixings. For lesser pitches, including the apex of any curved roof which approaches flat, proprietary secret fixed types of profiled sheeting
should be used in accordance with the system manufacturer’s instructions.
3 ‘design fall’ to take account of deflection and construction tolerance for the supporting deck to ensure at least minimum finished fall on completed roof. ‘Design
fall’ usually taken as twice the ‘finished fall’ unless a detailed deflection/settlement of the deck is carried out.
4 Check with manufacturer for alternative pitch recommendations.
Zero fall roofs

Zero falls are not accepted for roofs with exposed waterproofing layers, such roofs should be designed to the falls shown in
Table 2.
Deck Survey
Prior to laying the waterproofing layer(s) a site survey of the deck should be carried out by the deck erector and any back
falls should be addressed. Depending on the deck material this may be achieved by applying localised screed, to remove the
depression and create falls to outlets, the adjusted areas should be resurveyed to ensure no back falls remain, or by providing
additional rainwater outlets at the point(s) of maximum deflection. A formal handover procedure should be undertaken between
the deck erector and the waterproofing contractor.
7.1.5 Flat roof, terrace and balcony structural design

Flat roofs, terraces and balconies shall support and transmit loads safely to the structure.
The structure of the flat roof, terrace or balcony should:
7.1
be produced by an engineer in accordance with Technical have adequate provision for movement in larger roofs
Requirement R5, and BS EN 1991-1-1, BS EN 1991-1-3, particularly where the span of the roof deck changes. e.g. in
BS EN 1991-1-4 and BS 8579: 2020 for balconies L-Shaped buildings; joints should be continuous through the
be designed to address both short term and long-term vertical upstands, walls and edges of the building
deflection to provide an effective drainage strategy with no include support steelwork and joists which are square, true
back falls or ponding and free from twists or sagging
resist wind uplift by self-weight or by being anchored to have adequate crack control/dimensional stability to avoid
the main structure – where required, holding down straps damage to directly applied AVCL and waterproofing layer,
should be provided at maximum 2m centres at particularly liquid applied waterproofing.
the perimeters
have adequate provision for the additional loads where
a flat roof is to act as a terrace, roof garden, for support
of permanent service equipment, and for additional loads
during construction
Where joists and concrete roof elements are used to provide lateral restraint, they should:
have a minimum bearing of 90mm, or have restraint straps at 2m centres (maximum) where joists
or concrete beams are parallel to walls.
Chapter 7.1
7.1.6 Timber structure and deck

Timber flat roofs, balconies and terraces shall be of adequate strength and durability and be installed to
form a satisfactory substrate for the waterproofing system. Issues to be considered include:
a) structure and durability c) installing timber decks
b) joist hangers, straps and strutting
Structure and durability

Structural elements of balconies should have a service life of at least 60 years.
Timber in balconies should be limited to elements which are supported by materials other than timber. Timber should not be used for:
gallows brackets supporting a balcony infill joists
posts or columns supporting a balcony cantilevered joists or decks.
guardrails including their support
Decking boards should be specified and fixed in accordance with:
guidance from the Timber Decking and Cladding an engineer’s design, in accordance with
Association, or Technical Requirement R5.
The use of timber in balcony and terrace constructions may also be restricted by fire protection requirements set out in the
National building regulations.
Timber, including solid and engineered joists, should be:
checked for conformity with the design upon delivery retreated along the cut edges with a coloured preservative,
rejected where excessively wet, damaged or not of a where preservative treated timber has been cut
suitable quality or shape be temporarily covered to prevent wetting, unless the
stored under cover to prevent wetting but avoid sweating waterproofing is to be installed immediately.
preservative treated or naturally durable, in accordance with
Chapter 3.3 ‘Timber preservation (natural solid timber)’
Timber structure should:

be in accordance BSEN 1995-1-1 or appropriate load/span have joists which are sized and spaced in accordance with
table published by TRADA in support of building regulations the design and at maximum 600mm centres
be from regularised timber, dry graded to BS 4978 and be level and, where necessary, using hard packing such as
marked ‘DRY’ or ‘KD’ where softwood is used internally tiles or slates bedded in mortar to adjust joists (loose or soft
have I-joists or metal web joists specified in accordance with packing, including timber, should not be used)
the manufacturer’s recommendations and not used where
any part of the joists is exposed to external conditions
7.1
Timber decks should be formed from one of the materials listed in Tables 3, 4 and 5.
Table 3: Materials used for deck to flexible membrane roof coverings

Material Minimum thickness of deck (mm) 1
450mm joist centres 600mm joist centres
Plywood board to BS EN 636, Use Class 3.2, ‘S’, 2
15 4
18 4
Oriented strand board, to BS EN 300 type OSB3 15 18
Pre-treated timber planking, tongue and grooved 19 19
(close boarded timber). Maximum plank width 100mm 3
Notes
1 Thickness of deck may need to be thicker to resist pull-out forces on fixings.
2 All square board edges to be supported.
3 Moisture content between 16-20% at time of fixing.
4 For curved roofs two layers of thinner boards to achieve min thickness.
Chapter 7.1
Table 4: Materials used for deck for fully supported traditional hard metal roof coverings
Material Minimum thickness of
deck (mm)
Plywood board to BS EN 636, Class 3.2, ‘S’ 1 square edged with 2-3mm gaps between boards 3 18 2
Pre-treated timber square edged sarking boards, width 100-125mm with 3-5mm gaps between 4 18
Notes
1 Avoid yellow and maritime pine or low-quality softwoods.
2 For curved roofs two layers of thinner boards to achieve min 18mm thickness.
3 All board edges to be supported.
Table 5: Materials used for deck to lead roof coverings

Material Minimum thickness of
deck (mm)
Plywood board to BS EN 636, Class 3.2 ‘S’ 1 square edged with 3-5mm gaps between boards 3 18 2
Pre-treated softwood timber square edged sarking boards, width 100-125mm with 2-3mm gaps 18
between4
Notes
1 Avoid oak, Douglas fir and western red cedar.
2 For curved roofs two layers of thinner boards to achieve min 18mm thickness.
3 All board edges to be supported.
Joists hangers, straps and strutting

Masonry carrying joist hangers should be level and at the correct height.
Mild steel straps and fixings should be protected against corrosion in accordance with BS EN 845-1
Joist hangers should be:
in accordance with BS EN 845 fixed in accordance with the design.
the correct size for the timber joist or trimmer
Where holding-down straps are required to prevent the roof from lifting from the supporting structural, they should be:
spaced at a maximum of 2m centres at the perimeters fixed with the lowest fixing secured within 150mm of the
fixed with minimum of four hardened nails 4mm in diameter bottom of the vertical strap
x 75mm long, or No 12 wood screws x 50mm long, into 30mm x 2.5mm and 1m long
plugs (where fixed to masonry) predrilled for fixings.
7.1
gap between joist and

hanger is 6mm max.
strap with 30x2.5mm

cross section and
min. 1000mm long
min 4 screw
fixings per
no gap between strap
the hanger
and the wall
lowest fixing max. 150mm

from bottom of strap
notched to keep
ceiling line level
Strutting should be provided to prevent excessive movement, and:

be either herringbone type (timber 38mm x 38mm), solid not prevent cross ventilation in cold roofs
blocking (38mm thick timber x 0.75 depth of joist) or spaced in accordance with Table 6.
proprietary steel strutting or I-joist sections
Chapter 7.1
Table 6: Spacing for strutting

Joist span (m) Rows of strutting
Up to 2.5 None needed
2.5 – 4.5 One (at centre of span)
Over 4.5 Equally spaced along the span at maximum 2.5m centres
Installing timber decks

When installing timber decks:
conditions should be dry, and materials protected from boards should be laid in a staggered pattern
wetting until the roof is complete cut edges should be treated to prevent moisture ingress
the area of deck installed should be of a size which can be should have a minimum ‘good one side’
quickly covered in the event of rain should have all nails and screws punched or countersunk
materials that have been damaged or adversely affected by below the surface of the board
moisture should be discarded should be free of sharp arises on external angles.
tops of boards should be laid flush with no deviation greater
than 2mm
Plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) should:
have tongued and grooved boards installed with the long be supported on noggings where the edges of boards
edges at right angles to the supporting firrings or joists, situated along the roof perimeter do not coincide with joists,
and short edges supported on a joist or nogging. Note: and where square edged boards within the roof area do not
use square edge boards for support of hard metal and coincide with a joist
lead roofs be fixed at a maximum of 100mm centres (unless the
have edges of square edged boards supported on joists or design specifies closer)
noggings with movement gaps of 3-5mm between boards be fixed with flat-headed ring shank nails (minimum of
have a minimum movement gap of 10mm (or 2mm per 50mm long x 3mm for plywood, minimum of 3mm x 2.5 x
metre of boarding whichever is the greater) where boards board thickness for OSB) or screws of at least the
abut a rigid upstand same length.
OSB should be:
installed over supports in the direction indicated on the fixed a minimum of 8mm from the edge of the board.
boards, with the stronger axis installed at right angles to the
supporting joists
10mm where OSB Softwood tongued and grooved boarding should be:
7.1
for square edge or plywood abut
boards, 3mm for a rigid upstand closely clamped together with end joints staggered,
OSB and plywood
fixed with two ring shank nails to each joist or firring,
with nail heads punched below the timber surface.
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT)

Due to the semi-impervious nature of CLT panels and the risk of trapping moisture in the panels during the construction period,
CLT panels are not accepted for flat roof construction.
Structural insulated panels (SIPs) (used as self-supported deck)
Due to the difficulty in applying an effective AVCL to the warm side of a SIPs panel to prevent water vapour entering the panel,
and the risk of trapping moisture in the panels during the construction period, SIPs panels are not accepted for warm flat
roof construction.
Chapter 7.1
7.1.7 Concrete decks

Concrete flat roofs and balconies shall form a satisfactory substrate for the waterproofing systems.
Issues to be considered include:
a) structure and durability c) drying
b) screeds to falls
Structure and durability

Concrete flat roofs should be constructed to ensure they achieve the required design, strength and durability, and be in
accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1 and Chapter 3.1 ‘Concrete and its reinforcement’.
In-situ reinforced concrete decks should:
be formed using a mix which has low be protected until adequately cured and dried
shrinkage characteristics not contain additives that could affect the adhesion of any
have accurately constructed and suitably supported formwork adhesive bonded waterproofing membranes.
have an even surface to receive the selected waterproofing
layer (with adhesive bonded membranes the surface should
be slightly roughened, wooden floated or lightly brushed, in
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations).
Note
Liquids applied surface treatment onto the concrete to assist curing can adversely affect the bonding of the waterproofing layer. The compatibility of such liquids
should be checked with the waterproofing layer manufacturer before use.
Precast concrete decks should:

have a minimum 90mm bearing (unless the design specifies have allowance for movement approximately every
a smaller dimension) 15m and at abutments
have allowance for continuity or anti-crack reinforcement be installed to provide an even surface with no back falls
to avoid differential movement between units and stress in be grouted, as specified in the design.
waterproofing layer
Screeds to falls
Where falls have not been formed in the concrete deck, falls may be formed by the application of a screed. Sand/cement screeds
used to form falls to concrete roofs should be:
free from ridges and indentations to a minimum thickness in Table 7 where a cement/sand
laid on a concrete deck that has been suitably prepared to screed 1:4 (cement:sand) is used
receive a screed suitably dry and primed to receive the waterproofing
finished with a wooden float to provide a smooth, system in accordance with the membrane
even surface for the air and vapour control layer and manufacturer’s recommendations.
7.1
waterproofing finish
Lightweight screed should only be installed by specialist contractors and have a topping of 1:6 (cement:sand) 15mm thick.
Table 7: Minimum screed thicknesses
Location of screed Nominal thickness (mm)
Bonded monolithically to in-situ or separate bonded to precast 40 (25 minimum)
concrete¹
Unbonded on separating layer 70 (50 minimum)
Proprietary polymer modified screeds In accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations
Notes
1 Precast units should be sufficiently rigid and properly grouted to avoid movement between units leading to cracking in the bonded screed. Movement joints/details
may be required over ends of precast units and at perimeters or abutments. The waterproofing layer detailing should take account of any movement joints.
2 Where a cast in situ concrete deck, designed and laid to falls, is found to have areas of ponding or back falls preparation work should be carried out to provide
effective drainage prior to the application of the waterproofing layer. Polymer modified screeds may be used to make up any depressions in the concrete roof to
avoid any ponding or correct any back falls. The adjusted areas should be resurveyed to ensure no ponding or back falls remain. The compatibility of the levelling
screed with the waterproofing layer should be confirmed by the waterproofing manufacturer.
Chapter 7.1
Drying
Permanent waterproofing layer should not be installed until the deck has cured and dried sufficiently to avoid trapping potentially
damaging moisture and to allow the application of the waterproofing in accordance with the membrane manufacturer’s
recommendations. A check should be carried out on the moisture content of the slab to meet the membrane manufacturer’s
recommendations. Where an adhesive bonded waterproofing layer is to be applied an adhesive bond test should be undertaken
to check whether the concrete is sufficiently dry to achieve the correct bond, (usually around 28 days for fully bonded
waterproofing or to manufacturer’s recommendations).
Note
Permanent metal shuttering will significantly prolong the period needed to achieve an acceptable moisture content of the concrete before applying any waterproofing
layer. Perforated shuttering can assist drying out, any perforation should be factory made. Mechanical extraction/dehumidifier can also assist in the drying process.
7.1.8 Profiled self-supporting metal decks

Profiled self-supporting metal decks shall form a satisfactory substrate for the flat roof build-up. Issues to
be taken into account include:
a) structural performance c) roof build-up.
b) material and profile
Structural performance
Profiled self-supporting metal flat roofs should:
be constructed to ensure they achieve the required strength be side lap stitched to ensure it performs as a continuous
and durability, and be checked for conformity with the plane layer (unless the manufacturer
design upon delivery recommends otherwise)
comply with the manufacturer’s load and span tables and be adequately protected from construction loads
the relevant applied safety factor be suitably stored to prevent damage.
conform to BS EN 1090-4 (steel) and BS EN 1090-
5 (aluminium) and resist loads in accordance with BS
EN 1991-1-1,3 & 4 and be fixed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions
Material and profile

Profiled self-supporting metal flat roof sheeting should:
be galvanised steel to BS EN 10346 (typical gauge range be of suitable quality and finish before the waterproofing
0.7-1.2mm) or aluminium to BS EN 485-2 (minimum gauge layer and insulation system is installed
0.9mm) and used in accordance with BS EN 1993-1-3 and be fixed using suitable fixings which avoid bimetallic
BS EN 1999-1-4 respectively corrosion in accordance with the
have a crown which is a minimum of 45% of the profile manufacturer’s recommendations.
7.1
width (for bonded systems) (not including the crown
stiffener grooves)
have a crown which is minimum of 40% of the profile width
(for mechanically fixed systems)
Roof build-up
The roof build-up should:
be a ‘warm’ or ‘inverted warm’ roof design use a reinforced air and vapour control layer, or AVCL
have drainage falls formed by installing the profiled metal recommended by waterproofing manufacturer, in warm roof
sheeting at a slope or by use of tapered insulation build-ups where unsupported across the troughs
use insulation board with a compressive strength capable of incorporate a support board fixed profiles in inverted warm
spanning across the troughs of the profiled sheeting without designs to fully support the waterproofing layer.
crushing or be laid on a support board fixed across
the profiles
Chapter 7.1
Sheet cover width
Profile (pitch) width

Side lap stitched
Crown width Stiffener rib
Trough width
Purlin
Profiled metal deck features
Warm roof construction – with metal deck

waterproofing layer
insulation
reinforced air and vapour

control layer
(Note: AVCL may need
support on timber
decking fixed to metal
deck - check membrane
manufacturer’s
instructions)
trapezoidal metal deck

ceiling
Inverted warm roof construction
surface topping
water flow reduction

layer (WFRL)
insulation
waterproofing layer (also

performing as AVCL)
support board
7.1
trapezoidal metal deck

ceiling
7.1.9 Profiled self-supporting metal roofing

Profiled self-supporting metal roofing shall be of adequate strength and durability, and resist the passage
of water to the inside of the building, and provide an adequate level of thermal and sound insulation
Profiled self-supporting metal sheet roofs should be designed and constructed in accordance with:
BS 5427 CoP for the use of profiled sheet for roof and BS EN 508- parts 1,2 and 3 Roof and cladding products
wall cladding from metal sheet. Specification for self-supporting products
BS EN 14782 Self-supporting metal sheet for roofing, of steel, aluminium or stainless steel
external cladding and internal lining. Product specification BS EN 506 for self-supporting copper and zinc
and requirements BS EN 1991-1-1,3 & 4 for structural loads and be fixed in
BS EN 14509 Self-supporting double skin metal faced accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
insulating panels – Factory made products – Specification
Chapter 7.1
Profile sheet roofing can be:

site assembly - including self-supporting metal liner, outer factory insulated panels (i.e. sandwich or composite panels)
metal profile, held apart by site installed structural support - metal inner and outer skins adhesively or cohesively
system, with insulation between liner and profile layer factory bonded to a thermal insulation to form a composite
self-supporting assembly.
An air and vapour control layer must be provided on the warm side of the insulation.
Note
Subject to the profile manufacturer’s recommendations the AVCL can be formed by sealing the side and end laps of the metal liner or by the provision of a separate
AVCL membrane directly above the inner liner. The AVCL must be fully sealed around all penetrations and at the roof perimeter and have a vapour resistance of at
least 500 MNs/g. Note: if high density polythene is used it must be reinforced 1000 gauge or more and of virgin material.
Insulation should contact both the inner and outer metal layers. Any voids formed by the profile of the outer sheet metal roof
covering should be ventilated. Ventilation can be achieved by leaving open the profile at both ends of the sheeting above the
insulation. If profile fillers are fitted, they should leave a free area of not less than 5% of the cross-sectional area of the void.
Where the insulation is likely to be affected by local condensation, a breather membrane should be provided on top of the
insulation to discharge condensate externally in accordance with the profile manufacturer’s recommendations.
The profiled panels should be fixed using suitable fixings which avoid bimetallic corrosion in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
Twin skin build-up

External metal sheet Ventilated void Stitching screw
Vapour permeable
structured underlay
Support rail
Insulation
Spacer
framework
AVCL x
Purlin
xx
x
7.1
Inner liner metal sheet
Standing seam roof (secret fixings)

Breather membrane
Outer
weather
Insulation skin
AVCL
Inner
liner sheet
Purlin
Chapter 7.1
Example of edge seal with composite roof panels

Butyl rubber seal Stitching screw
Metal outer layer (weather skin)
Insulated Core
structurally bonded
to outer and inner
metal sheets.
Metal inner liner Butyl rubber seal
The panel side laps, and end laps should be sealed to provide an air barrier as part of the overall air leakage and vapour control
requirement of the building, in accordance with the panel manufacturer’s instructions.
(See also: BRE Report ‘Thermal insulation

7.1.10 Thermal insulation and vapour control avoiding risks’ and BS 5250)
Thermal insulation, vapour control and ventilation shall ensure satisfactory performance, and prevent the
formation of condensation which could adversely affect the construction. Issues to be considered include:
a) thermal characteristics of roof types c) control of water vapour.
b) types of insulation
Thermal characteristics of roof types

Uninsulated roof – The temperature of the deck is at or close to that of the interior or exterior of the building whichever is the
lesser.
Cold roof – The temperature of the deck is at or close to that of the external climate. Cold roof designs should be limited to roofs
where it can be shown that effective cross ventilation can be provided to reduce the risk of interstitial condensation
7.1
Warm roof – The temperature of the deck is at or close to that of the building interior.
Inverted warm roof – The temperature of the deck is at or close to that of the building interior. The WFRL should be designed
and installed to collect and drain most of the rainwater to reduce water entering and cooling the insulation layer.
Condensation analysis should be calculated using an external temperature of -5C in accordance with BS 6229.
Types of insulations
Types of insulations and their use should be in accordance with Table 8.
Chapter 7.1
Table 8:
Insulation material Abbreviation BS EN Applications
Standard
Warm roof Inverted
warm roof ¹
Expanded polystyrene board EPS 13163 yes ² no ³
Extruded polystyrene board XPS 13164 Yes ² yes
Rigid polyurethane foam board PUR, or PU, 13165 yes no
Phenolic foam board PF 13166 yes no
Polyisocyanurate board PIR 13165 yes no
Cellular glass board CG 13167 yes no ³
Expanded perlite board EPB 13169 yes no
Cork board ICB 13170 yes no
Fibreboard, bitumen-impregnated (used in conjunction with EPS with yes no
hot applied waterproofing)
Composite boards or decks (e.g. Plywood + PIR) yes no
Resin bonded mineral wool rigid board MW 13162 yes no
Mineral wool quilts 4 MW 13162 no no
Vacuum insulation panels 5
VIP yes yes
Notes
1 Thermal insulation used in inverted roofs should be designed in accordance with ETAG 031-1
2 Suitably protected when using hot applied waterproofing
3 Unless the product has an independent third-party assessment for use in inverted warm roofs
4 Not suitable for warm or inverted warm roofs and only used in cold roofs
5 Suitably assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Insulation for warm roofs should be:

either: kept dry and installed in quantities which can be
– bonded or mechanically fixed to resist wind uplift in quickly covered if it rains (to aid bonding and to
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations; avoid trapping moisture)
where mechanically fixed, it should be installed using dimensionally stable at working temperatures
fixings of sufficient length to ensure adequate (e.g.100°C under metal roofs)
penetration into the supporting structure, or lightly butted to avoid gaps.
– part of a loose laid roof system which is ballasted to
resist wind uplift
Insulation for inverted roofs should be:
7.1
extruded polystyrene (XPS), or expanded polystyrene protected by a breathable water flow reducing layer
(EPS) suitably assessed in accordance with (WFRL) to reduce the cooling effect of cold water flowing
Technical Requirement R3 into and under the thermal insulation and across the
suitable for external use waterproofing layer
ballasted to avoid floatation and wind uplift calculated to take account of the cooling effect of rainwater
suitable for the weight of the ballast and able to withstand seeping through the insulation board joints in accordance
anticipated traffic and design loads with BS 6229 and ETAG 031-1 and the dry calculated
thickness increased to allow for this cooling effect.
Note
A WFRL should be designed and installed to drain most of the water from the roof. It should be installed at right angles to the designed slope of the roof, starting
at the bottom of the slope. All side and end laps should be a minimum of 300mm. The WFRL should be star cut around pipes and wrapped with additional piece of
membrane, turned up at upstands and penetrations, and turned down at drainage locations/outlets.
Composite insulated timber decks should: two continuous beads

of sealant beneath
have two beads of sealant along each board joint at the each board
foil under face (to maintain the integrity of the vapour

control layer) in accordance with the board
manufacturer’s recommendations.
ensure adequate
bearing area for
composite deck
noggings are required

to support all cross joints
Chapter 7.1
Control of water vapour

The movement of water vapour within the roof construction must be controlled to avoid the risk of interstitial condensation.
This can be achieved by providing an air and vapour control layer (AVCL) on the warm side of the insulation.
In a cold roof the addition of ventilation to the void(s) between the insulation and decking can also assist by removing water
vapour from within the construction.
Warm roofs do not incorporate ventilation and rely entirely on the AVCL to avoid interstitial condensation. It is therefore essential
that a good quality AVCL is used and that all laps, joins or penetrations are fully sealed. All AVCL’s should be fully check for any
damage just prior to being covered over. Any damage should be repaired using a full width section of membrane. Penetrations
should be kept to a minimum and fully sealed to the AVCL.
In an inverted warm roof, the waterproofing layer also acts as the AVCL. Control of interstitial condensation also relies on the
thermal insulation above the waterproofing layer being kept free from running or ponding water between the insulation and
waterproofing layer and within joints between the insulation boards. This should be control by the correct installation of the WFRL
laid over the insulation.
AVCL’s can be formed with one of the materials listed in Table 9.
Table 9: Materials for AVCL
Material Specification
Reinforced bitumen membranes BS 8747
BS EN 13970
Self-adhesive Polythene/ metal foil/ bitumen membranes for cold self-adhesion BS EN 13970
BS EN 13984
High density Polyethylene sheet with metal foil core BS EN 13984
High density Polyethylene sheet BS EN 13984
Plastic and rubber sheets BS EN 13984
12mm one coat mastic asphalt on glass fibre tissue BS 6925
Note
Metal-cored flexible reinforced bitumen membranes are also suitable to form an AVCL.
AVCL’s to warm roofs should:

include at least one layer of reinforced bitumen roofing be sealed and lapped to the waterproofing layer (where
membrane (S2P3) below the insulation, fully or partially compatible) at the perimeters and at each penetration,
bonded to the structural deck as appropriate, or a suitable e.g. at outlets and pipes, rooflights etc. or extended up a
self-adhesive or torch-on membrane minimum 50mm above the insulation and sealed to the wall,
be self-sealing (e.g. self-adhesive aluminium foil-backed rooflights etc.
7.1
modified bitumen membrane) if penetrated by mechanical be fixed to resist the calculated wind uplift forces.
fixings,(e.g. those securing the insulation boards to the deck)
AVCL’s for warm roof constructions supporting traditional hard metal roofs should have a minimum vapour resistance of
4000MNs/g and be fully supported.
Any fixings that penetrate the AVCL e.g. those securing insulation boards to the deck, should be carefully installed to avoid
creating open perforations that would allow water vapour to pass through.
Cold flat roofs are difficult to detail correctly but, where used, they should be in accordance with BS 6229 and BS 5250 and have:
an effective air and vapour control layer at ceiling level adequate cross ventilation (openings at both ends of each
an unobstructed minimum 50mm ventilation space above joist void equivalent to a minimum 25mm gap )
the insulation a maximum clear distance of 5m between ventilators on
opposite sides of the roof.
Note
All ventilation gaps should have protective mesh or grilles (nominal 4mm openings) to avoid entry of large insects and birds.
Chapter 7.1
7.1.11 Waterproofing layer and surface treatments

Flat roofs, and balconies forming roofs, shall adequately resist the passage of water to the inside of the
building. Issues to be considered include:
a) installation of waterproofing layer c) surface treatments
b) waterproofing systems d) fire protection.
Installation of waterproofing layer

Prior to the waterproofing layer being installed:
the surface should be even and dry and any nails should be the manufacturer’s recommendations for the preparation,
punched, or screws countersunk, below the surface. including priming upstands, roof outlets, etc. should
any penetrations for drainage, services, rooflights etc, be followed to achieve a satisfactory bond with the
should be formed before the waterproofing layer is applied. waterproofing layer
the manufacturer’s recommendations for conditioning,
and unrolling membranes in advance of laying, should
be followed.
Environmental conditions should be suitable for installing the waterproofing layer. Issues to be considered include the following:
membranes should not be installed or handled when the membranes should not be installed on damp or frosted
product temperature and the air temperature is 5°C or less surfaces or when any rain, sleet or snow is falling.
unless otherwise agreed with the manufacturer.
self-adhesive bitumen membranes should not be installed
or handled below 5°C, unless otherwise permitted by
the manufacturer
Waterproofing layer should be:
secured in a manner that resists the wind uplift. checked by the contractor to ensure that the deck and
secured in a manner that allows expansion of metal decks insulation boards are waterproofed at the end of each day
installed in accordance with the design and the with ‘night joints’ and before inclement weather
manufacturer’s recommendations installed so that membrane laps near outlets do not
installed by a specialist roofing contractor approved by the impeded drainage i.e. outlets should be recessed to avoid
manufacturer, where a proprietary system is used forming a raised lip with the waterproofing layer
installed by the same contractor who installs the air and installed so that successive layers do not trap water.
vapour control layer, insulation and surface finish
Inverted roofs should:
not be used for slopes greater than 10 degrees installed with a separating layer between the waterproofing
7.1
be laid on a deck with no back falls or ponding layer and inverted warm roof insulation where required by
be designed to support the loads, particularly from ballast the membrane manufacturer.
needed to retain insulation
be ballasted to the depth specified in the design to resist
wind uplift, flotation and provide fire protection, using
minimum 40mm paving slabs or 20-40mm diameter
rounded shingle ballast minimum 50 mm deep, subject to
any other requirements to meet fire protection measures
Note
The depth of ballast required to resist flotation may exceed the minimum depths needed to meet the fire protection.
Chapter 7.1
Table 10: Waterproofing layer materials

Material Standard Code of practice Other guidance
Reinforced bitumen membrane (RBM) BS 8747 BS 8217
BS EN 13707 BS 6229
APP & SBS modified bitumen roofing Independent Third-Party BS 8217
systems Assessment BS 6229
BS EN 13707
Mastic asphalt BS 6925 BS8218 MAC Technical Guide
Plastic and rubber sheets BS EN 13956 SPRA Design Guide
Liquid applied waterproofing (hot or cold LRWA Design Guide
applied) ETAG 005
Reinforced bitumen membranes and modified bitumen roofing systems

Bitumen membranes should be high performance to BS EN 13707 ‘Flexible sheets for waterproofing – reinforced bitumen sheets
for roof waterproofing – definition and characteristics’ and reinforced with polyester reinforcement. SBS (elastomeric) modified
bitumen membranes offer increased extensibility and flexibility, especially at low temperatures, whilst APP (plastomeric) modified
bitumen membranes offer resistance to UV degradation and high softening points, and both provide a longer service life than
traditional RBMs.
Built-up bitumen membrane roofs should be complete systems provided by the membrane manufacturer and installed in
accordance with BS 8217 ‘Reinforced bitumen membranes for roofing – Code of practice’ and the membrane
manufacturer’s instructions.
The installation methods should consider the safe use and application of any hot applied materials including such guidance as
the NFRC’s ‘Safe to torch’.
Table 11: Modified bitumen membranes used in warm roof construction
Deck Preparation AVCL Insulation First /preparatory Final layer /cap sheet ² with
RBM Minimum layer integral surface protection ³
(S2P3) or (S2P3)
Modified
bitumen
membranes
Concrete or Smooth surface, and
screed prime Applied in Applied in Applied in accordance
accordance accordance with with the membrane
Plywood or OSB Prime deck
with the See Note the membrane manufacturer’s instructions
Profiled metal Stitch side laps, prime membrane 1 manufacturer’s
e.g. steel, crowns (or timber decking manufacturer’s instructions
aluminium where provided) instructions
7.1
Table 12: Modified bitumen membranes used in an inverted warm roof construction
Deck Preparation First/preparatory layer Final layer/cap sheet ²
(S2P3)
Concrete or screed Smooth surface Applied in accordance Applied in accordance with the membrane manufacturer’s
and prime with the membrane instructions
manufacturer’s
instructions
Notes to Tables 11 and 12

1 Insulation to be mechanical or adhesive fixed to deck in accordance with the design of the roof build-up. Torching on to insulation boards and timber deck is not
acceptable, apart from suitable insulation boards e.g. rock fibre, perlite or foam insulation boards with a torch receivable facing.
2 Classification by performance should be in accordance with BS 8747 e.g. a minimum value of S2P3 for ballasted roofs with access for light maintenance only and
minimum S5P4 for accessible roofs with paving slabs on supports. S = tensile strength and elongation, P=resistance to puncture both static and dynamic, the
higher the number the better the performance.
3 The use of stone chippings is not recommended unless required to enhance fire protection. Solar reflective paint, if used, should not be used as the sole
protective finish to the membrane.
Chapter 7.1
Mastic asphalt
Mastic asphalt should be:
to BS 6925, type 988 T25, 20mm thick on the flat and 3 x 10mm layers on horizontal surfaces and 3 layers with a
installed on black sheathing felt total thickness of 20mm on vertical surfaces, for upstands to
walls on Green roofs.
Polymer modified asphalt should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Single-ply membrane
Single-ply membranes, including materials such as, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM),
and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), should be:
either bonded to the insulation, mechanically fixed to designed and installed in accordance with SPRA guide
the deck or loose laid, and sealed and ballasted. Fixing assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
methods should be in accordance with the
welded at laps using either hot air or a specific solvent with
or without taped seams
Liquid applied membranes

Liquid applied, include a variety of cold and hot applied membranes, should be:
selected and applied in accordance with the Liquid Roofing assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
and Waterproofing Association’s guidance notes.
applied in accordance with the
Fully supported flat sheet hard metal roof

Fully supported flat sheet hard metal roof coverings should be designed and constructed:
to the material Standards as shown in Table 13 or assessed in accordance with the relevant Codes of Practice, the
in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 FTMRC ‘UK guide to good practice’ and the supply
in accordance with BS EN 14783 ‘Fully supported metal manufacturer’s recommendations. Including allowance
sheet and strip roofing, external cladding and internal lining. for thermal movement and wind uplift
Product specification and requirements’ to avoid damage from condensation
with maintenance access only.
Table 13: Fully supported flat sheet hard metal roof coverings
Metal type Material Standard
7.1
Aluminium (Al) BS EN 485-1
Copper (Cu) BS EN 1172
Galvanised Steel (Gst) BS EN 10346
Stainless Steel (SS) BS EN ISO 9445 parts 1-2
Titanium Zinc (Zn) BS EN 988
Direct contact between dissimilar metal roof coverings and metal fixings can cause corrosion, similarly, rainwater from dissimilar
metal roofs should not discharge on to one another. Acid run-offs from timber cladding, contact with fresh cement mortar, and
acidic cleaners, can also affect metal roofing particularly Zinc, and in marine environments metal roofing can suffer unsightly salt
deposits. Various coatings have been developed to protect against corrosive environments and unsightly deposits. Advice on the
above aspects should be sort from the metal roofing manufacturer when considering the roof design.
It is essential that interstitial condensation does not build up on the underside surface of metal roof coverings. This trapped
moisture will increase the risk of corrosion developing in key parts of the construction containing metals such as Zinc, Galvanised
steel and Aluminium. Prevention of interstitial condensation should be achieved by a ventilated design for either of the ‘cold’ or
‘warm’ roof types - with each having a ventilated void beneath the deck supporting the metal covering.
Chapter 7.1
Ventilation needs to be effective in accordance with BS 5250 and BS 6229 with minimum 50mm ventilated void with continuous
25mm edge ventilation gaps and a maximum 5m between ventilation points in the direction of the joists. With verge to verge
cross ventilation, and ventilation in the direction of the joists and 5-10m between ventilation points, a ventilation gap of minimum
100mm and continuous edge ventilation gaps of 60mm is recommended. Intermediate mushroom ventilators are ineffective in
reducing these ventilation distances.
Note
Ventilation gaps should have mesh or grilles (nominal 4mm openings) to stop the entry of large insects and birds.
Ventilation also helps form a protective patina to the underside of aluminium, galvanised steel and zinc. Timber sarking boards
with 3-5mm gaps between are the preferred deck option, if plywood is used it should have 3-5mm gaps between boards. The
metal should be laid on a structural underlay i.e. a breathable underlay with outer layer of bonded polypropylene mesh, which
assists air and moisture movement all in accordance with the metal roof manufacturer recommendations.
Ventilated cold roof design Ventilated warm roof design
metal standing metal standing
seam roof covering structural seam roof covering
structural
underlay underlay
deck deck
ventilated void ventilated void
firrings or firrings or sub joists
sub joists
breather
breather membrane
membrane
insulation between insulation

structural joists
AVCL AVCL
internal ceiling lining supporting plywood

sub deck
structural joists
and ceiling lining
Fully supported lead roof

Fully supported lead roofing should be:
laid loose on building paper to BS 1521 Class A for installed in accordance with BS 6915, The Lead Contractors
plywood deck or smooth concrete/screed deck, or polyester Association’s, ‘The ultimate guide to best practice’ or
geotextile felt for timber boards (fitted with penny width manufacturer’s recommendations. Including allowance for
air gaps) thermal movement and wind uplift
installed as a ventilated cold or ventilated warm designed with maintenance access only
7.1
roof system treated with patination oil directly after installation where
rainwater run-off may cause staining to adjoining surfaces.
Table 14:
Metal type Material Standard Code of Practice
Lead (rolled) BS EN 12588 BS 6915
Lead (machine cast) Third party assessment
Integrity testing of waterproofing layer

The waterproofing layer should be inspected for defects after installation. Any defects are to be repaired and retested and left in
a satisfactory condition.
Waterproofing layers on flat roofs, terraces and balconies greater than 50m², or roofs which are difficult to access (such as
on buildings over 3 storeys), should be subject to visual inspection and an appropriate integrity test, undertaken by a suitably
qualified surveyor.
Waterproofing layers under 50m² or those unsuitable for electronic testing e.g. EPDM or foil-faced bitumen membranes, may be
checked by visually inspection which should include inspection of any seams with suitable probes.
Guidance on electronic test methods and their application can be found on the ‘Roofing And Waterproofing Test
Association’ website.
A test report containing the test results and photographic record of the roof should be made available to NHBC.
Chapter 7.1
Surface treatments
Surface treatments should be in accordance with Table 15
Table 15: Surface treatments for flat roofs
Material Access for maintenance only Access roof, walkway or terrace
Reinforced bitumen mineral surfaced cap sheets (e.g. type precast semi-porous concrete tiles bedded in
membranes S5P5) bitumen or approved adhesive
reflective stone chippings¹, bedded in a precast concrete proprietary paving slabs on
bitumen-based compound supports, or sand/cement blinding²
a minimum thickness of 50mm washed, proprietary decking systems³.
rounded 20-40mm shingle ballast laid loose
Single-ply membranes supplementary solar reflective coatings or proprietary flexible, non-slip walkway sheets or
other finishes not required tiles, compatible with the membrane product
where laid loose, membranes can be precast concrete proprietary paving slabs on
ballasted with a 50mm minimum thickness adjustable supports or suitable non-woven
of washed, rounded 20-40mm shingle polymeric protection layer
ballast installed on a non-woven polymeric proprietary decking systems with bearers set on
protection layer. an additional membrane or suitable non-woven
polymeric protection layer³.
Cold applied liquid products generally do not require proprietary surface treatments compatible with
roofing membranes supplementary solar reflective coatings or the membrane product
other finishes. proprietary non-slip walkway tiles compatible with
the membrane product
precast concrete proprietary paving slabs on
supports on a suitable non-woven polymeric
protection layer
proprietary decking systems with bearers set on
additional pads on suitable non-woven polymeric
protection layer/filter layer³.
Hot melt rubberised use in inverted/buried membrane applications or in roof garden/green roofs
bitumen systems must be protected with a substantial reinforced bitumen membrane protection sheet or
protection board
all upstands/details where the membrane becomes exposed need a protective membrane to be
applied to prevent UV degradation.
Mastic asphalt reflective stone chippings¹, bedded in a precast semi-porous concrete tiles bedded in
bitumen-based compound bitumen or approved adhesive
solar reflective paint in accordance with precast concrete proprietary paving slabs on
BS 8218. supports or sand/cement blinding².
Notes
7.1
1 Loose surface finishes should be prevented from being removed by weather and discharged into gutters and drainpipes. Chippings should be a minimum of
12.5mm limestone or white spar, not pea gravel.
2 Cement/sand blinding should be installed on two layers of 1000 gauge polyethylene separating membrane.
3 Decking systems should meet the required fire protection requirements for the overall roof system and should not float in the event of flooding.
Fire protection
The surface protection provided to the waterproofing layer must satisfy the fire protection requirements as set out in the National
building regulations.
Account must be taken of the waterproofing detail at abutments with a building and the extent that the waterproofing can be
dressed up the wall of the building and the jointing detail between the roof waterproofing and the cavity trays/dpc, this may
include the use of non-combustible trays, in the external wall of the building.
Extensive green roof systems should include non-combustible perimeter abutment strips to buildings, roof lights etc and at
regular intervals across the roof in accordance with the guidance in the GRO fire risk guidance document and National
building regulations.
Chapter 7.1
7.1.12 Green and biodiverse (brown roofs) – including roof gardens

Green and biodiverse (brown roofs) shall be suitable for their intended use.
Green and biodiverse roofs should:
be designed with a finished fall at the waterproofing layer of be designed to take account of wind uplift and flotation
1:60 (1°) minimum have supporting data to demonstrate compliance with
be designed in accordance with the GRO Code of Practice relevant material standards and codes of practice
and CIRIA C753 SuDS Manual 2015 include waterproofing layer suitable for use in the green/
have a certified waterproofing system that is endorsed biodiverse roof system
by the manufacturer as fully suitable to be specified for a have rainwater outlets that are accessible and have a
Green sustainable roof design visible inspection hatch.
Green and biodiverse roof systems that do not comply with the principles of this chapter should be assessed in accordance with
Technical Requirement R3.
Both the green/biodiverse roof system and the waterproofing layer should be installed by a contractor trained and approved by
the system supplier.
Waterproofing layer should be either:
reinforced bitumen membrane single-ply membrane, or
mastic asphalt a liquid applied system, (cold or hot melt).
The system should in installed in accordance with the design and the waterproofing layer manufacturer’s recommendations and
integrity tested prior to covering (see integrity testing).
Other issues that should be considered when installing green roofs include the:
provision of a root barrier or use a waterproofing layer height of upstands in relation to soil height and flashings
that is resistant to root penetration in accordance with protection, reservoir and filter layers
BS EN 13948 moisture control of the soil.
Intensive green roof on warm roof deck Extensive green roof on warm roof deck
soil and vegetation

sedum blanket and
filter layer growing medium
drainage/reservoir layer filter layer
protection layer
root barrier reservoir
waterproofing layer protection layer/root barrier
insulation waterproofing layer
insulation
7.1
AVCL
AVCL
screed to falls screed to falls
structural deck – Reinforced Concrete
concrete deck Slab or Composite RC and profiled
ceiling finish steel deck depending on loadings.
ceiling finish
Intensive green roof on inverted warm roof deck Extensive green roof on inverted warm roof deck
soil and vegetation
filter layer
sedum blanket and growing medium
filter layer
drainage/reservoir layer
water flow reduction layer
reservoir
insulation water flow reduction layer
protection layer/root barrier insulation
waterproofing layer protection layer/root barrier
waterproofing layer
screed to falls screed to falls
concrete deck structural deck – Reinforced Concrete
ceiling finish Slab or Composite RC and profiled
steel deck depending on loadings.
ceiling finish
Chapter 7.1
Table 16: Principles for green roofs

Intensive Extensive
Features provides a normal garden environment requires minimal maintenance,
uses natural topsoil at least 150mm deep and i.e. annual attention
‘normal’ plants such as grass, bushes, shrubs types of planting includes sedum in a blanket or
and trees modular trays, wildflower blanket, non-blanket
requires regular ‘intensive’ maintenance, i.e. like solutions using plug plants or hydroseeding.
a normal garden
requires protection of the waterproofing membrane
from possible damage during maintenance of the
garden, e.g. from weeding/planting
Structure 10° maximum roof pitch unless anti-shear 45° maximum roof pitch deck (profiled metal deck
measures are taken, accounting for full weight of or concrete deck depending on load).
wet soil (generally supported by a concrete deck).
Drainage Falls finished fall of 1:60 at drainage level.
Moisture control irrigation system may be required
can be designed to retain some water in order to maintain the vegetation and to reduce run off.
Air and vapour fully bonded polyester -reinforced RBM (S2P3), a suitable self-adhesive membrane, or a torch-on
control layer membrane.
Insulation insulation material should have adequate compressive strength to withstand likely applied loads.
Roots a root resistant element is required above the waterproofing layer. Alternatively, an approved root resistant
waterproofing layer can be used. Note: consideration should be given to the potential for large roots to
enter and disrupt inverted warm roof insulation, the system provider should be consulted for advice.
Protection and a protection layer (or board) should be placed in accordance with the
filter layers above the waterproofing layer manufacturer’s recommendations.
a filter layer should be placed above the
reservoir layer.
7.1.13 Blue roofs

Blue roofs shall be suitable for their intended use
Blue roofs should:
be designed in accordance with relevant parts of BS fully drain over the designed retention period. Permanent
6229: 2018 and the NFRC Technical Guidance Note for retention of water is not accepted on the
Construction and Design of Blue Roofs. Roofs and podiums roof waterproofing layer
with controlled temporary water attenuation include overflows independent of the rainwater drainage
7.1
have a certified waterproofing system that is endorsed by system, to avoid water ingress into the building should
the manufacturer as fully suitable to be specified for a Blue the water attenuation level be exceeded. Operation of an
sustainable roof design overflow should be visible to warn of a potential blockage in
have supporting data to demonstrate compliance with the drainage system
relevant material standards and codes of practice have minimal penetrations of the waterproofing layer other
include waterproofing layer suitable for use in the blue roof than rainwater outlets and overflows
system and subject to independent third-party assessment be designed as a warm roof or inverted warm roof.
have specific flow restrictor outlets to meet the required
water discharge rate and which are accessible for
inspection and maintenance
If designed as an inverted warm roof the design should take into account the additional thickness of insulation, over and above
the dry state ‘U’ value calculation, that is required to compensate for the cooling effect of water penetrating the insulation and
reaching the waterproofing layer, in accordance with the guidance in BS 6229.
The design should also include sufficient topping of ballast, paving or green roof to avoid flotation of the insulation, Flotation
forces can be quite significant and occur before the attenuation system reaches full capacity.
Care should also be taken in the design and installation of the WFRL so that it performs as the principal drainage layer and
reduces water penetration to the insulation layer below.
Chapter 7.1
The WFRL should be:

lapped and sealed to avoid/minimise rainwater getting taken up all protrusions/penetrations and sealed. This
below the insulation layer includes between the top of the insulation layer and the
lapped and taped onto the lip of the water bottom of the recessed lip of the water attenuation chamber,
attenuation chamber and behind parapet chambers.
finish a minimum of 50mm above the top of the blue roof
attenuation level at parapets/upstands
7.1.14 Raised Podium

Podiums shall be protected by adequate weatherproofing and drainage.
A Raised podium is a terrace over a non-habitable area where thermal insulation is generally not required. The waterproofing
layer may, or may not, link with any structural waterproofing to the supporting structure below (see Chapter 5.4) but must link
with damp proofing in any abutting walls. The construction of podiums at, or below, ground level (buried podiums) are covered
under Chapter 5.4.
The make-up of the waterproofing layer and topping should follow the guidance given for the individual waterproofing layers and
toppings quoted within this chapter and to suit the type of deck that has been used to form the podium.
Consideration must be given to emergency vehicular traffic at the planning stage and, where necessary, waterproofing and
structural designs must be capable of accommodating foreseeable loading.
Raised podium Buried podium

Waterproofing to podium See Chapter 5.4 ‘Waterproofing of basements and other below
ground structures’.
Ground level Ground level Podium
Tanking to basement and podium

Tanking to basement
7.1.15 Detailing of flat roofs

7.1
Flat roofs shall be detailed to ensure satisfactory performance.

Table 17: Flashings materials
Flashing material Guidance
Rolled lead sheet Minimum code 4. BS EN 12588
Aluminium and aluminium alloys BS EN 485 and BS EN 573, 0.6-0.9mm thick and protected from
contact with mortar by a coating of bituminous paint.
Zinc alloys BS EN 988 and 0.7mm thick.
Copper BS EN 1172, 0.6mm thick and fully annealed.
Stainless steel BS EN ISO 9445 parts 1-2
Galvanised steel BS EN 10142/3
Proprietary flashing, including plastic and composite. Assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Note
Where two metals are to be joined, they should be compatible and not cause bimetallic corrosion in that environment. Alternatively, they should be isolated from
each other.
The following illustrations are intended as a guide to demonstrate the general principles of the flat roof detailing commonly used
on flat roofs, terraces and balconies. Where indicated, the principles are applicable to other types of roof construction. Further
information on specific waterproofing systems may be obtained from BS 6229 and BS 8217.
Chapter 7.1
Concrete Decks
Upstands Skirting to rooflights or ventilator kerb
Upstands may be fixed to the wall. Similar details apply to inverted roofs.
Upstands should be a minimum of 150mm high. Allow for thickness of ballast to achieve a minimum
Similar details apply to inverted roofs with concrete decks. 150mm upstand.
Preformed preformed kerb
coping OSB or plywood surface treatment
(e.g.GRP) capping (where required)
min.
150mm
surface treatment waterproof membrane
(where required) insulation
min.
150mm screed to falls
Drip to waterproof membrane
coping insulation concrete deck
air and vapour control layer
concrete deck
upstand screed to falls
Twin-kerb expansion joint

Similar details apply to inverted roofs.
OSB or plywood mineral surfaced top layer
capping fixed to to upstand and over
one kerb only expansion joint
min.
150mm
waterproof membrane
insulation
screed to falls
concrete deck
Timber decks
Mansard edge Pitched roof abutment
Elements should be firmly fixed to prevent peelback
in high winds. battens, tiles/slates surface treatment
surface treatment (where required) (where required)
min.
150mm
waterproof membrane waterproof membrane
vapour control layer vapour control layer

insulation
metal flashing
7.1
battens, tiles/slates
tilting fillet OSB or plywood
layboard
insulation
Independent skirting detail Verge detail

Upstand should be kept separate from wall, and allow Similar details apply to inverted decks.
for movement. Upstand should be a minimum of 150mm
high above surface finish. Similar details apply to cold deck surface treatment (where required)
timber roofs. edge trim
cavity metal cover built up timber kerb
tray flashing insulation
vapour control layer
min.
min. 150mm
300mm waterproof membrane
insulation
upstand of timber deck

insulation board
Chapter 7.1
Welted drip to external gutter Pipe passing through roof

Inverted timber decks should be detailed to avoid insulation Vapour control layer should be bonded to the waterproofing.
being lifted by wind suction and an alternative detail used. Detailing of upstand and flashing is similar for all roofs.
surface treatment (where required)
apron flashing bonded to pipe

waterproof membrane
insulation
vapour control layer sleeve around pipe
min.
150mm
waterproof membrane
insulation
insulation around pipe
Upstand to ventilator or rooflight kerb Rainwater outlet

Similar details apply to cold and inverted roofs. Allow for The opening should be properly trimmed.
the thickness of ballast in inverted roofs, to achieve The outlet should be at the lowest point in roof.
upstand dimensions. Ensure that the outlet is fixed securely to decking to prevent
displacement by thermal expansion of rainwater pipe.
50mm
Similar details apply to concrete roofs.
surface treatment
(where required) vapour control
min.
mineral 150mm surface treatment layer turned back
surfaced (where required) over insulation
top layer to waterproof membrane
face of insulation waterproof
timber kerb vapour control layer membrane
50 x 50mm
triangular fillet
insulation around pipe

and outlet
Inverted warm roof drainage outlet

rainwater outlet
7.1
finished topping
Water drainage at two levels
water flow reduction layer (WFRL) (Note: with a warm roof
drainage is at upper level only)
insulation
waterproofing layer
deck
Chapter 7.1
7.1.16 Accessible thresholds and upstands

Accessible thresholds shall be protected by adequate weatherproofing and drainage.
Generally, where a flat roof or terrace abuts a wall the waterproofing layer should extend up the wall to form a minimum 150mm
upstand measured from the balcony/terrace drainage layer of the roof/terrace. The waterproofing material forming an upstand
should link directly under a cavity tray to ensure the cavity fully drains. Weep holes should be provided in masonry walls at 1m
maximum spacings to assist drainage.
Where there is a door threshold or a window sill less than 150mmm above the balcony/terrace drainage layer and there is a
requirement for level access, or the fenestration design involves windows at or close to internal floor level and the paving/decking
level , then the following upstand and accessible threshold design requirements, as shown in the diagrams below, should apply.
Designs which continue the waterproofing layer horizontally through/under the outer leaf of a cavity wall and form an upstand
against the inner leaf within the cavity are not acceptable because:
materials used for the waterproofing layer are generally water draining from the waterproofing layer must not be
unsuitable to perform as a DPC supporting masonry loads directed into a cavity wall
the cavity must fully drain to avoid water retention and future inspection, repair and maintenance of hidden
associated problems through prolonged saturation of the upstands cannot be carried out without significant disruption
wall material, frost action and water turning stagnant to the construction.
Accessible thresholds should:
be in accordance with the design - specific fire, thermal and have a minimum 45mm projecting sill to shed rainwater away
acoustic precautions may be required from the interface with the waterproofing layer with a drip
have a maximum 15mm upstand at the threshold feature a minimum 30mm away from the face of the upstand
(measured at the door position); additional sloping transition have a 75mm minimum balcony upstand below the
elements, such as a small internal ramp and external sill, underside of the projecting sill, measured from the
may be provided either side of the upstand; the maximum balcony/terrace drainage layer.
slope on the ramps and sills should be 15 degrees
Uninsulated balcony deck

finished projecting sill with a drip min.
floor 30mm from face of upstand balustrading
level
low kerb min. 25mm

min. 10mm gap between decking/paving at below underside of
the door sill to
7.1
perimeter upstands and thresholds and 6mm gap min. 150mm act as overflow
between decking/paving units splash zone
75mm min. upstand fall fall
supporting waterproofing layer raised and drained rainwater cantilevered alternative hopper
slab with falls to outlet decking or paving outlet balcony discharge
on drained supports
Chapter 7.1
Insulated terrace deck
finished raised and drained overflow/warning pipe outlet

projecting sill with a drip min. min. 25mm below the
floor decking or paving
level 30mm from face of upstand on drained supports underside of the door sill
min. 10mm gap between decking/paving at

perimeter upstands and thresholds and 6mm min. 150mm
gap between decking/paving units splash zone
75mm min. fall

upstand
position of drainage
layer (WFRL)for an
Insulation inverted warm roof
deck
Anti-splash supporting position of position of rainwater outlet

grille slab waterproofing layer waterproofing layer (should not pass
(optional) supporting for an inverted for a warm roof deck through accommodation
warm roof deck balcony/roof below unless fully
insulated)
Accessible threshold
Ramped transition unit may be

required to provide clearance for
carpetting etc.
Max. 15mm upstand at door
(proprietary threshold units should achieve this measurement)
min. 30mm drip

Waterproofing from face of upstand
extended under
threshold
7.1
Waterproofing layers should:

be laid without forming ponding and associated be fully protected from direct trafficking
stagnant water be capable of withstanding point loads from supports to
have a finished fall of a minimum of 1:80 to decking or paving
rainwater outlet(s) be UV resistant or fully protected from daylight.
be subject to specific third-party assessment where falls are
zero degrees with no back falls or ponding
be designed to ensure that where falls are towards or
parallel to the building, blockage of the outlet(s) cannot
cause flooding to the building
Chapter 7.1
Drainage arrangements should be effective and have a suitable overflow. The building should not flood where an outlet or
downpipe is blocked. This can be achieved by using:
at least one outlet and an overflow with at least the capacity two outlets connected to independent downpipes such that
of the outlet if one downpipe becomes blocked the other outlet(s) can
at least one outlet chute and hopper (Chute should be sized still cope with the discharge, or
to serve at least twice the discharge capacities to allow for setting the balcony kerb a minimum 25mm below the door
partial blockage without causing flooding into the building) threshold to discharge safely without causing any adverse
effect to the construction below.
Outlets beneath decking or paving should be clearly identified and accessible for maintenance.
To ensure adequate drainage:
10mm gaps should be provided between decking/paving spacers and supports which raise the decking or paving
units and perimeter upstands/thresholds should not obstruct the flow of rainwater to outlet(s).
4-6mm gaps should be provided between individual units of
decking or paving
A splash barrier around the perimeters should be provided:
to ensure water does not reach any part of the wall that using an impervious wall finish or cladding or by extending
could be adversely affected by the presence of moisture the waterproofing layer to form an upstand with cover
to a minimum of 150mm above the decking or paving flashing and cavity tray. Note: impervious masonry units
with porous bed joints are unsuitable within this zone.
7.1.17 Parapets and guarding to terraces and balconies

Terraces and balconies to which persons have regular access other than for maintenance, shall be
adequately guarded to minimise the risk of falling. Issues to be considered include:
a) guarding d) durability and fixing of balustrading and guard rails
b) stability of guarding e) access for maintenance.
c) strength, movement and weatherproofing of masonry
balcony walls
Guarding
Guarding should:
not be easily climbed by young children not inhibit the flow of drainage on the waterproofing layers
be to an adequate height or overflows in the event of a blocked outlet
be toughened glass, laminated glass (subject to meeting
fire regulations) or glass blocks (suitably reinforced) where
7.1
glazed balustrading is used
Stability of guarding
Guarding, including parapet walls and balustrading used as guarding, should be designed in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-1 to
resist horizontal loading and as required by building regulations. Care is needed when the design incorporates balustrading fixed
to parapet walls to ensure stability and prevent overturning. End fixings into walls or returns may be needed to ensure stability.
In balcony walls (especially long balconies) the structural stability should be checked, as cavity trays and DPCs in the wall can
create a slip plane that can seriously limit the ability of the wall to resist horizontal forces. In such cases, it may be necessary to
incorporate a ring beam or other support to ensure stability.
Chapter 7.1
Strength, movement and weatherproofing of masonry balcony walls

Masonry balcony walls should be built in accordance with Chapter 6.1 ‘External masonry walls. In particular:
walls should incorporate strengthening as required by copings should project a minimum 45mm beyond the
the design faces of the wall below and incorporate a drip feature that
movement joints should be provided in accordance with discharges water at least 30mm away from the face of
the design the wall and stops water running back under the coping.
top of the walls should be weatherproofed with a coping, Note: preformed edge trims that are sealed to and form a
or by the deck waterproofing layer taken up and over the finished edge to the waterproofing layer and which extend
masonry wall down over the wall/fascia, may have a lesser drip projection
copings should be firmly fixed provided the waterproofing layer drains away from the trim
copings should incorporate DPC’s and cavity trays linked
to the waterproofing layer upstands. Cavity trays should be
installed to discharge towards the external face of the wall
and incorporate weep holes at maximum 1000mm centres.
Alternative metal/
GRP coping
Drip
30mm
Plywood across full width of

Cavity wall with DPC above
DPC Concrete/stone coping
Drip
30mm
45mm
7.1
Cavity closer and support to

DPC (full width of the wall)
Parapet detail with waterproofing taken over top of wall and finished with an edge trim
Drainage fall
Edge trim Plywood

mechanically mechanically
fixed fixed
Chapter 7.1
Durability and fixing of balustrading and guard rails

Balustrading and guard rails should be of adequate durability and fixed securely. The structure to which the balustrading and
guard rails are fixed should be adequate to safely resist the potential forces acting on the guarding.
Balustrading should not be:
fixed through a coping or capping due to the difficulties in fixed through the waterproofing layer unless suitable
achieving a waterproof junction with the coping or capping precautions are taken to provide a waterproof junction
and maintaining an imperforate DPC beneath the coping e.g. locating baseplates on a raised waterproofed kerb or
or capping. These issues should be avoided by fixing the surrounded the baseplates in a pitch pocket detail.
balustrading to the face of the wall below the coping
or capping
Pitch pocket sealing detail around post fixed to deck Handrail fixing on an upstand formed in concrete roofs
Post on baseplate post fixed to baseplate and

fixed into substrate
through first layer of baseplate bolted or screw
pitch poured into framed
upstand and left to set waterproofing fixed into concrete
waterproof seal between
Waterproofing jointing baseplate and flashing
‘L’ shaped metal angle forming layers and surface finish
upstand on all sides metal flashing
waterproof membrane
insulation
surface treatment

screed to falls
concrete deck
Substrate
Base of balustrade post raised above drainage level Balustrade post fixed to wall below coping/kerb
waterproof membrane post fixed to baseplate

dressed up and across and baseplate bolted Waterproofing layer
kerb and under baseplate or screw fixed into
concrete
main drainage waterproof seal

between baseplate and
level waterproofing layer
concrete kerb to raise Balustrade post fixed to baseplate
baseplate above main and baseplate bolted or screw
drainage level
7.1
into wall/balcony edge to avoid
penetrating waterproofing layer
Particular attention should be given to use of materials or finishes that resist corrosion or unsightly surface staining in aggressive
environments such as coastal zones.
Note
Ferritic stainless steel can suffer surface rusting/staining in coastal zones.
Access for maintenance

Provision should be made for safe future access to flat roofs for the purposes of maintenance.
Pitched roofs
Chapter 7.2
This chapter gives guidance on meeting the
Technical Requirements for pitched roofs,
including:
coverings
vertical tiling
fixings
ventilation
weatherproofing.
7.2.1 Compliance 01
7.2.2 Provision of information 01
7.2.3 Design of pitched roofs 01
7.2.4 Protection of trusses 03
7.2.5 Durability 04
7.2.6 Wall plates 04
7.2.7 Joints and connections 05
7.2.8 Restraint 06
7.2.9 Bracing for trussed rafter roofs 07
7.2.10 Strutting for attic trusses and
cut roofs that form a floor 09
7.2.11 Support for equipment 09
7.2.12 Access 09
7.2.13 Dormer construction 09
7.2.14 Underlay and sarking 10
7.2.15 Ventilation, vapour control
and insulation 11
7.2.16 Firestopping and cavity barriers 14
7.2.17 Battens 14
7.2.18 Roof coverings 15
7.2.19 Fixing tiles and slates 16
7.2.20 Weathering details 18
7.2.21 Valleys and hidden gutters 21
7.2.22 Drainage 21
7.2.23 Fascias and trim 22
7.2.24 Spandrel panels in cold roofs 22
1 Pitched roofs 2023
Chapter 7.2
7.2.1 Compliance Also see: Chapter 2.1
Pitched roof structures and coverings shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Pitched roofs that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Roofs with a tile or slate covering should be in accordance with BS 5534.
7.2.2 Provision of information

Designs and specifications shall be produced in a clearly understandable format, include all relevant
information and be distributed to the appropriate personnel.
Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers,
and include the following information:
the layout of trusses and associated items details of restraint/holding-down strapping,
details of mono-pitch, lean-to roofs and roof intersections including coatings and fixings
(i.e. hips and valleys) the position and thickness of insulation
details of girder trusses, multiple trusses and diminishing the means of providing ventilation
trusses, including how they are to be fixed together and details of firestopping at separating wall and boxed eaves
supported on truss shoes, layboards or similar details of coverings and fixings, including number and type
details of bracing requirements details of flashing details at abutments, chimneys, etc.
details of supports for equipment in the roof space details of trimming around chimneys, access hatches, etc.
the type and position of vapour control layers
For trusses, the design should be provided to the manufacturer in accordance with PD 6693-1, which includes:
usage, height and location of building, referencing any size and approximate position of water tanks or other
unusual wind conditions equipment to be supported
rafter profile, referencing camber where required positions and dimensions of hatches, chimneys and
spacing, span and pitches other openings
method of support and position of supports type of preservative treatment, where required
type and weight of coverings, including sarking, insulation special timber sizes, where required to match
and ceiling materials existing construction.
eaves overhang and other eaves details
7.2.3 Design of pitched roofs Also see: TRADA Eurocode 5 span tables (3rd edition) and BS 8103-3
The sizing and spacing of members shall ensure structural stability and provide restraint to the structure
without undue movement or distortion. Issues to be taken into account include:
7.2
a) trussed rafter roofs b) traditional cut roofs.

The design of pitched roofs should:
have dead and imposed loads calculated in accordance ensure stability with the complete structure, including the
with BS EN 1991-1-1, BS EN 1991-1-3 and connections and compatibility with the supporting structure
BS EN 1991-1-4 and adjacent elements
be in accordance with PD 6693-1, and where trussed rafters and a cut roof are combined,
Technical Requirement R5, where appropriate the designer should provide details of the complete roof
be appropriate for the location, accounting for exposure and (particular care is needed in such circumstances).
wind uplift
ensure that the structure is coherent and that all forces
are resolved
Roofs should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 where:

the roof is not a basic pitched roof trussed rafters support traditional cut roof members, or
hips, valleys or other special features are included in a it is a proprietary system (designs supplied by
trussed rafter roof manufacturers will generally be acceptable).
the spans, sizes, spacing or strength classes of the timber
are outside the scope of authoritative tables
Pitched roofs 2023 2
Chapter 7.2
Structural timber should be of a suitable grade and specified according to the strength classes in BS EN 338, e.g. C16, C24 or
TR26 in accordance with BS EN 14081. When using BS 4978 grading rules:
the timber specification should be in accordance with the timber should be marked accordingly.
BS EN 1912, or the timber species and strength
class identified
Trussed rafter roofs

Trussed rafters should be:
installed in accordance with the design, and the structure or vertical and suitably located (where necessary,
spacing should not be altered without prior consent from temporary bracing should be used to maintain spacing
the designer and to keep trusses vertical)
fixed to the wall in accordance with the design (e.g. using evenly spaced at maximum 600mm centres.
double skew nailing or truss clips)
Where the maximum 600mm spacing cannot be achieved, e.g. to accommodate hatch openings or chimneys, spacing may be
increased to a maximum of twice the nominal spacing, provided that the spacing X is less than, or equal to, 2A-B where:
X = distance between centres of trussed trimmed rafters A = design spacing of trussed rafters
and the adjacent trussed rafter B = nominal width of opening.
Where multiple and reinforcing timbers to simple or multiple
trussed rafters are used, they should be:
designed to be permanently fastened together
either fixed together during manufacture, or fully detailed
drawings and specifications showing the fixing method
should be supplied.
Hipped roofs constructed with trussed rafters typically require
a series of diminishing mono-pitched trusses supported by a
girder truss.
The bearing of mono-pitched trusses into shoes should be in
accordance with Table 1, unless designed by an engineer in A
accordance with Technical Requirement R5. X
B
A
X
trussed trimmed rafters
Table 1: Bearing length of mono-pitched trusses into shoes

Span Minimum bearing length Minimum thickness of trussed rafter
Less than 4m 50mm 35mm
7.2
4m or more 75mm 35mm
Ceiling finishes should be fixed according to the spacing of the support members and the thickness of the sheet.
Plasterboard should be fixed as follows:
9.5mm plasterboard should be fixed at a maximum support additional members will generally be required to support
spacing of 450mm coverings and finishes where trusses are spaced
12.5-15mm plasterboard should be fixed at a maximum further apart.
support spacing of 600mm
Where the width of a gable ladder exceeds that of the trussed rafter centres, noggings should be used to reduce the span of the
roofing tile battens.
Traditional cut roofs

For traditional cut roofs:
the design should specify the details of each structural temporary support to long span members should be used
member and the method of fixing or jointing until framing is complete
the roof should be in accordance with the design and purlins and binders should be built in where necessary
members accurately located framing should be completed before coverings are installed.
members should be fully supported and tied together
where necessary, particularly where the roof is not a
simple triangle
Chapter 7.2
Table 2: Basic timber members

Member Notes
Valley rafter Provides support for loads from both sections of the roof and should:
be larger than ordinary rafters to take the additional load
provide full bearing for the splay cut of jack rafters
be provided with intermediate support where required.
Hip rafter Provides spacing and fixing for jack rafters and should:
have a deeper section than the other rafters to take the top cut of the jack rafters.
Purlins should be mitred at hips and lip cut to accept the bottom of the hip rafter.
Ceiling joist or ties Provides support for the rafters and should:
stop the walls and roof spreading outwards
provide support to the ceiling finish and walkways, etc.
Ridge Provides fixings and spacing for the tops of the rafters.
Purlin Provides support to long span rafters to prevent deflection and increase stiffness.
Struts Provides support to purlins to prevent deflection and to transfer roof loads to the load-bearing
structure below.
Collar Ties the roof together at purlin level.
Ceiling binders and hangers Provides support to long span ceiling joists.
Pole plates Similar to purlins, but used where ceiling joists are above wall plate level.
ridge
purlin
collar pole plate
spanning between
hanger load-bearing walls
strut
binder
wall plate
load-bearing
wall
Generally sizes should be as Table 3, unless designed by an jack hip valley

rafter rafter rafter
engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Table 3: Typical sizes for timber members
Member Minimum size
7.2
Struts 100mm x 50mm

Valley rafter 32mm thick
Ridges and hips Rafter cut + 25mm
7.2.4 Protection of trusses Also see: International Truss Plate Association Technical Handbook
Trusses shall be protected from damage.

Where the trusses or timber members are damaged, they should be rejected and not repaired. To avoid distortion and to
prevent damage, trusses should be:
protected against weather to prevent the corrosion of truss stored vertically and propped
plates and the deterioration of the timber stored with level bearers under the joints
adequately ventilated during storage carried upright (fasteners can loosen when carried flat).
stored clear of the ground
Chapter 7.2
7.2.5 Durability
Timber shall be of suitable durability.
The following timber members should be naturally durable or treated in accordance with Chapter 3.3 ‘Timber Preservation
(natural solid timber)’:
porch posts bargeboard
tiling battens fascias and other trim.
soffits
Where the roof is to include a fully supported weatherproofing membrane, the following timber components should either be
naturally durable or suitably treated:
rafters sarking
purlins wall plates
ceiling joists battens for fixing vertical cladding.
bracing
7.2.6 Wall plates

Wall plates and the roof structure shall be bedded and fixed to distribute and transmit loads, and to
prevent uplift.
Trussed rafter roofs and traditional cut roofs should be
supported on timber wall plates. Trussed rafters should only be
rafter
supported at the junction between the ceiling tie and rafter,
unless specifically designed otherwise, e.g. as a cantilever.
S
Wall plates should be:
bedded to line and level
fixed using nails or straps ceiling tie
a minimum of 3m or extend over at least three joists,

rafters or trusses
joined using half-lapped joints, including at corners
max. projection=
38 x 100mm or in accordance with local practice. 50mm or ¹⁄xS
whichever is larger
Fixings used to connect the roof structure to the wall plate should be specified according to the roof construction and exposure of
the site.
Where trussed rafter roofs are not subject to uplift, a minimum of two 4.5mm x 100mm galvanized round wire nails, skew nailed,
7.2
one on each side of the trussed rafter, or truss clips (fixed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions) are acceptable.
Where the roof is required to resist uplift, skew nailing is unlikely to provide sufficient strength, and appropriate metal straps
should be used. Holding-down straps should be:
provided according to the geographical location and a minimum cross section of 30mm x 2.5mm and spaced
construction type at a maximum of 2m centres (galvanised steel straps are
provided where the self-weight of the roof is insufficient generally acceptable) or proprietary straps and fixings
against uplift fixed to the wall, or turned into a bed joint.
provided in accordance with the design
Fixings for straps should be:
in accordance with the design, and the lowest fixing should where into masonry, hardened 4mm x 75mm nails or 50mm
be within 150mm of the bottom of the vertical strap long No 12 wood screws (into suitable plugs).
of a material or finish which is compatible with the straps
Proprietary straps should be:

in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 installed in accordance with
Chapter 7.2
7.2.7 Joints and connections

Joints and connections shall be designed to ensure structural stability without undue movement
or distortion.
Members should:
be accurately cut to fit tightly not be damaged or split.
The following joints should be used at the main connections of traditional cut roof members:
Rafters to ceiling joists using a nailed lapped joint Rafter to purlin

The rafter should be birdsmouthed and skew nailed to the A birdsmouth joint should be used, generally the purlin is
wall plate. fixed vertically.
rafters skew nailed

to wall plate
d
¹⁄d
Purlin connections Scarf joint

Support should be provided directly under the joint or a scarf Used to support the long span of the purlin.
joint used. Scarf joints should be made near to a strut so that
the joint supports the longer span.
scarf joint near

strut supporting
longer span
halving joint in of purlin
purlin when directly wedges and
over strut metal plate to
tighten joint
7.2
Hipped roof joints

Angle ties should be used at the corners of hipped roofs to
prevent the wall plates from spreading.
Where hip rafters are heavily loaded, e.g. carrying purlins, timber angle
they should be jointed using dragon ties, or similar, to prevent tie prevents
wall plates
the hip rafter spreading. spreading
dragon tie
prevents
spread of
hip rafter
notch to fit over

angle tie
steel tie
prevents
angle tie spread of
hip rafter
plywood angle
tie prevents
wall plates
spreading
Chapter 7.2
7.2.8 Restraint Also see: Chapter 6.1
Adequate restraint shall be provided to support the structure, distribute roof loads and prevent wind uplift.
Strapping shall be of adequate strength and durability, and fixed using appropriate fixings.
Restraint straps, or a restraining form of gable ladder, should be used where required to provide stability to walls, and be
installed in accordance with the design.
Lateral restraint straps should be located:
for homes up to and including three storeys (two storeys in for homes four storeys or over, fixed at a maximum spacing
Scotland), at a maximum spacing of 2m of 1.25m.
Lateral restraint straps should be fixed to the roof structure by either:
fixing to solid noggings using a minimum of four 50mm x fixing to longitudinal bracing members using eight 25mm
4mm steel screws or four 75mm x 4mm (8SWG) round x 4mm steel screws evenly distributed along the length of
nails, with one fixing in the third rafter (Figure 1), or the strap (Figure 2). Alternatively, 100mm x 25mm timber
members, fixed over four trusses and nailed in accordance
with Clause 7.2.9 can be used where the position of the
strap does not coincide with a longitudinal binder.
Figure 1 Figure 2
strap underneath solid noggings, strap underneath the 25x100mm bracing fitted
fixed with a minimum of four longitudinal bracing (or an tightly to internal
fixings (at least one in the third rafter) additional timber member) fixed face of block
with a minimum of eight screws inner leaf
block removed
for clarity
packing between
rafter and wall
strap held tightly
against block
inner leaf
nogging fixed horizontally to avoid

twisting the restraint strap strap held tightly against block inner leaf
Lateral restraint straps should be:

ordered and supplied according to the design, i.e. the of sufficient length to be fixed to a minimum of three trusses
7.2
correct length and number of bends and twists a minimum size of 30mm x 5mm and have a minimum
provided at rafter level on gable walls, where the home is anchorage downturn to 100mm (or proprietary straps)
of masonry construction (larger or separating walls may fixed with the downturn on a substantial piece of blockwork,
require restraint at ceiling level) preferably fitted over the centre of an uncut block
protected against corrosion in accordance with BS EN 845-1 in accordance with BS EN 1995-1-1, where the home is of
Clause 6.1.11 Table 4 (sherardised straps or fixings are not timber frame construction.
acceptable in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man)
In framed roofs, as an alternative, purlins and pole plates can be used to provide restraint where the timber abuts a gable
construction. Where purlins are used to provide restraint, the maximum permissible spacing is 2m unless the design
shows otherwise.
Gable ladders can be used to provide restraint to the external wall where:
there is blocking between the last trussed rafter and the the soffit board is cut carefully and then fixed securely to
inner leaf (maximum 2m spacing) restrain the outer leaf.
Proprietary straps should be:

In accordance with Technical Requirement R3 Installed in accordance with
Chapter 7.2
7.2.9 Bracing for trussed rafter roofs Also see: BS EN 1995-1-1 and PD 6693-1
Trussed rafters shall be suitably braced to support applied loads and self-weight without undue movement.
For the purposes of this chapter, the guidance and use of standard trussed rafter bracing does not apply to homes on or near
exposed sites, e.g. flat coastal fringes, fens, airfields and moorland. In such cases, bracing should be designed by an engineer in
accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Standard trussed rafter bracing, in accordance with Table 4, is generally acceptable, where the home:
has a rectangular roof (including hip ends) and is either a has trusses which are only supported at each end
duo-pitched or a mono-pitch structure does not have unsupported masonry spanning more
is not taller than 8.4m (to the underside of the ceiling tie) than 9m (between buttressing walls, piers or chimneys)
is braced in accordance with this chapter has a ceiling of plasterboard directly under each truss
is braced according to the conditions of the site and in (where there is no plasterboard, i.e. garages, additional
accordance with the design diagonal ceiling bracing and longitudinal binder bracing at
does not have trusses which span more than 12m each ceiling node point is required.
Table 4: Location, height and span for standard bracing conditions

Type Duo-pitch Mono-pitch
Maximum pitch 35° 30° 35° 30° 25°
Storeys 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3
Maximum England and Wales 10.6 9.1 8.5 12 11.5 10.2 5.6 4.5 4.3 6.6 5.8 5.1 8.1 7.2 6.4
span (m) Scotland 9.8 7.7 7.2 11.6 10.0 8.8 4.9 4.2 3.6 5.8 5.0 4.4 7.3 6.4 5.6
Areas north or west of Ullapool 8.6 7.2 6.0 10.6 8.7 7.5 4.3 3.6 3.0 5.1 4.4 3.7 6.5 5.6 4.5
Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man 9.8 7.7 7.2 11.6 10.0 8.8 4.9 4.2 3.6 5.8 5.0 4.4 7.3 6.4 5.6
Areas north-east of Londonderry 8.6 7.2 6.0 10.6 8.7 7.5 4.3 3.6 3.0 5.1 4.4 3.7 6.5 5.6 4.5
Roof bracing should be:
in accordance with this chapter or PD6693-1 completed before the roof covering is laid
in accordance with the design and not altered without prior provided using a minimum timber size of 100mm x 25mm
approval from the designer (3mm tolerance)
appropriate for the site (where the site is in an exposed nailed twice to each rafter it crosses; fixings should be
location, the design should be checked for additional 3.35mm x 65mm (10 gauge) galvanized round wire nails
requirements, and the bracing completed as specified where braces and binders are not continuous, they should
suitably fixed to the wall plate) be lap jointed and nailed to a minimum of two trusses.
binders abutted tightly binders fixed to ceiling ties of

against gable and trussed rafters, where necessary
7.2
separating walls using two lap-jointed lengths
When bracing pitched roofs:

diagonal and longitudinal bracing should be provided at longitudinal bracing members should extend the full length
rafter level (this may be omitted where rigid sarking boards of the roof, tightly abut gable and party walls and permit
are used, e.g. chipboard, plywood or OSB, which are fixed diagonal bracing to pass (they may be lap-jointed providing
to each trussed rafter with 3mm x 50mm galvanised round the overlap is nailed to a minimum of two trussed rafters)
wire nails at 200mm spacing) there should be a minimum of four diagonal rafter braces in
diagonal and chevron bracing should pass across each each roof; in narrow fronted roofs and mono-pitched roofs,
rafter in the roof, however, small gaps, such as two trussed where the braces cross, the intersection detail (below)
rafters between sets of bracing, or one trussed rafter should be used.
adjacent to gable or separating walls, is permitted in the
middle of an otherwise fully braced roof
Diagonal rafter bracing
Applicable to all trussed rafter roofs unless rigid sarking, such as timber boarding or plywood, is used.
Diagonal rafter bracing should be approximately 45° to the rafters on plan.
Chapter 7.2
Bracing for roofs that are approximately square Bracing for larger roofs
truss span truss span truss span
truss span truss span truss span
Bracing for roofs less than 6.6m wide on detached Bracing for mono-pitch trusses
or staggered/stepped buildings
intersection intersection
detail detail
intersection
detail
truss span
truss span truss
truss span
span truss
truss span
span truss span
front
Intersection details should be formed by:

22mm x 97mm x 600mm timber splice plate nailing, using a minimum of four 3.35mm x 65mm
galvanised round wire nails to each side of the intersection,
with nails driven through bracing and clenched over.
Longitudinal bracing member at ridge node point Longitudinal bracing member at rafter node point
Applicable to all trussed rafter roofs. Not necessary where rigid Applicable to all rafter node points. Not necessary where:
sarking, such as OSB, timber boarding or plywood sheeting,
spacing between braced nodes is less than 4.2m, or
is used.
rigid sarking, such as OSB, timber boarding or plywood
sheeting, is used.
less than 4.2m
7.2
Longitudinal binders at ceiling node points Chevron bracing between webs
Applicable to all ceiling node points. Not necessary where the Where the span exceeds 8m. For mono-pitch roofs of any
spacing between braced nodes is less than 3.7m. span and duo-pitch roofs over 11m span, bracing should
be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical
Requirement R5.
It should be approximately 45° to the web members.
less than 3.7m
more than 8m
Diagonal bracing to end vertical of mono-pitch trusses

Applicable where the truss is not restrained by:
a masonry wall, or
cladding, i.e. plywood.
Chapter 7.2
7.2.10 Strutting for attic trusses and cut roofs that form a floor
Strutting to attic trusses shall be provided to support the applied loads and self-weight without undue
movement or distortion.
Strutting should be provided:
in accordance with the design using herringbone (38mm x 38mm timber) or solid strutting
where the span between the node points which form the (a minimum of 0.75x the depth of the floor and a minimum
width of the floor of the attic truss exceeds 2.5m of 38mm thick).
where the span between the supports to a floor within a cut
roof exceeds 2.5m
Table 5: Provision of strutting

Span of floor Rows of strutting
Under 2.5m None required
2.5m-4.5m One (at centre of span)
Over 4.5m Two (at equal spacing)
7.2.11 Support for equipment

Permanent equipment in roof voids shall be adequately supported.
Where equipment (e.g. water tanks and MVHR fan units) is located in the roof void, the structure should be designed in
accordance with PD 6693-1 and the truss manufacturer’s recommendations, to support the additional load.
7.2.12 Access Also see: Clause 7.2.15
Roof voids shall be provided with suitable access.

Access should:
be provided to the main roof space and voids which contain include securely fixed boarded walkways between the
cisterns and tanks etc. though it is not required to roof opening and the cistern or other permanent equipment;
spaces which contain only water pipes boarding should be securely fixed without compressing the
permit the removal of permanent equipment (e.g. heating insulation; at each piece of permanent equipment or cistern,
and ventilation plant) located in the roof space a minimum 1m2 platform should be provided to
have a minimum opening width of 520mm in each direction facilitate maintenance.
not be located directly over stairs or in other
hazardous locations
7.2
Access hatches should be in accordance with Clause 7.2.15. Where an access hatch is required to provide fire resistance,
the fire-resistance period should be supported by test evidence.
7.2.13 Dormer construction

Dormer constructions shall be of adequate structural stability.
dormer cheek dormer rafter where carrying
studs dormer cheek studs
layboard
lintel supports
dormer roof
plate
trimmer takes double rafter supports

load from dormer cheek studs and
cut rafters load from the trimmer
double joist carrying

dormer cheek studs
Chapter 7.2
For dormer roofs:

construction should be in accordance with the design trimming members should be large enough to
cheek studs should be supported by either a double rafter support additional loads from the main roof members,
or a double floor joist dormer framing and cladding
where cheek frames do not extend to floor level, two fixed a suitable lintel should be provided over the opening
rafters should be used to provide the necessary support lintels should be structurally independent from the
window frame.
Proprietary dormers
Proprietary dormers should be:
in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 installed in accordance with certification requirements
suitably durable
7.2.14 Underlay and sarking

Underlay and sarking shall be provided to resist the passage of moisture.
Underlay and sarking should:
be in accordance with the take account of the type and fixing of the roof covering
manufacturer’s recommendations be used in accordance with relevant assessments.
In areas of severe exposure, a rigid sarking with underlay is recommended.
Table 6: Acceptable materials for use as underlay and sarking
Material Standard
Tongued and grooved or square-edged boarding BS 1297
Exterior grade plywood BS EN 636 service class 3
Chipboard (type P5) BS EN 312
OSB (type OSB3) BS EN 300
Felt BS EN 13707
Proprietary products Technical Requirement R3
Underlay should:
be provided to all tiled roofs be cut neatly to fit tightly around surface penetrations and
where it is above rigid sarking (fully supported), be of low not be torn, i.e. where pipes project through the underlay
vapour resistance, i.e. less than 0.25MNs/g (where the be dressed into the gutter where exposed at eaves level,
underlay is highly vapour-resistant, increased ventilation to be UV resistant or of type 5U felt or a proprietary eaves
the roof space or between the underlay and sarking should guard used
7.2
be provided as necessary) where traditional mortar pointing is used to bed ridge tiles,
be supported by a continuous fillet or proprietary eaves extend over the ridge
support tray to prevent sagging (which can form a water trap) continue over hips to form a 150mm minimum lap parallel
be securely fixed with the hip rafter
at vertical laps, be fixed only over rafters, and at horizontal at abutments, be supported and turned up by a minimum
laps be held in place by battens. Where no batten is provided of 100mm
over a horizontal lap, the underlay manufacturers guidance be draped to allow water to drain behind the tiling battens.
should be sought
Chapter 7.2
Table 7: Horizontal laps for unsupported underlay

Pitch Minimum horizontal laps
Less than 15o 225mm
15 and above
o
150mm
At valleys:
the main roof underlay should be cut to the valley
batten line
a strip of underlay should be laid under the main roof
underlay and held down by the valley battens (where lapped to suit
pitch of roof
used).
underlay supported
by tilting fillet and
dressed into gutter
7.2.15 Ventilation, vapour control and insulation

Roofs shall have adequate precautions against condensation and cold. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) ventilation, vapour control and insulation c) pipework.
b) dormer construction
Ventilation, vapour control and insulation

To provide adequate ventilation and to avoid condensation in roof voids, pitched roofs that have insulation at ceiling level should
be ventilated to the outside air:
ventilation openings should prevent the entry of birds, etc. a spacer in the eaves should be used to allow insulation to
(fabrications with 3mm-10mm openings are acceptable) be installed over and beyond the wall plate to minimise the
ventilation paths should remain clear, i.e. not blocked by cold bridge without blocking the ventilation path (the spacer
insulation or the structure should be of sufficient length to maintain ventilation above
the insulation)
where proprietary eaves ventilators are used, they should
be fixed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ridge or high-level ventilation equivalent to a continuous opening of 5mm should be provided at the highest point of each roof
slope in accordance with BS 5250 in the following situations:
unventilated cold roofs have insulation placed over a vapour permeable underlays are used on sloping roofs with
horizontal ceiling and a vapour-permeable underlay areas covered by non-permeable materials (e.g. flat roofed
(type LR) is used. The exception being where no ridge areas of mansard roofs)
7.2
or high-level ventilation is proposed to the roof void, the the roof is covered with high water vapour resistant (type
roofing underlay must be a low water vapour resistance HR) underlay and the pitch exceeds 35° or the span
(type LR) and air permeable underlay and hold current exceeds 10m (this is in addition to eaves ventilation).
certification for use in a non-ventilated application from an
appropriate third party technical approvals body, acceptable
to NHBC. Such membranes should have a water vapour
resistance, sd, not exceeding 0.05 m (0.25 MN∙s/g) and air
permeability of 34m3/m2.h at 50 Pa.
5mm opening where 5mm continuous

pitch exceeds 35° or high level ventilation
span exceeds 10m with LR underlay
10mm 10mm
opening opening
roof pitch over 15°
Chapter 7.2
Where high water vapour-resistant (type HR) underlay (e.g. types 1F/5U felts) is used, eaves ventilation should be provided on
opposite sides of the roof to permit cross ventilation, and:
where the roof pitch is 15°or more, ventilation equivalent to for mono-pitched roofs, cross ventilation should be in
a 10mm slot running the full length of the eaves should accordance with BS 5250 and have ventilation equivalent
be provided of a continuous high-level 5mm slot, in addition to
where the ceiling follows the slope of a roof, regardless eaves ventilation.
of pitch, or where a cold roof has a pitch less than 15°,
ventilation equivalent to a 25mm slot running the full length
of the eaves should be provided (a nominal clearance of
50mm should be maintained between the insulation and the
roof underlay)
clear airway clear airway

(min. 50mm) (min. 50mm)
5mm
opening 5mm 5mm
opening opening
10mm or 25mm
opening to suit pitch
mono-pitched roof
25mm 25mm
opening opening
room-in-roof (partially sloping ceiling) room-in-roof (completely sloping ceiling)
10mm or
25mm opening
to suit pitch
25mm 25mm
opening opening
roof pitch below 15°
7.2
pitched roof dormer
25mm min. 50mm

opening clear airway cold roof
5mm spacer maintains
opening 25mm clear airway
above insulation
insulation above
min. 50mm cavity closer and
clear airway wall plate avoids
5mm a cold bridge
opening
ventilation
opening
25mm 25mm
opening opening
room in roof (flat roof dormer)
Chapter 7.2
To reduce moist air entering the roof space:

gaps should be sealed where services pass through where used, downlighters should be specified and sealed to
the ceiling limit air leakage.
Vapour control layers should be provided in accordance with the design, and where required should be:
placed on the warm side of insulation used in roof constructions where the ceiling board is fixed to
the rafters.
Where the ceiling below a cold pitched roof includes a vapour control layer, the design should ensure adequate ventilation is
provided to the habitable areas to prevent condensation problems in the home.
Access hatches to cold roof voids should have:
an air leakage rate not more than 1 M3/h at a pressure of a push-up cover with a minimum weight of 5.5 kg and
2 Pa when tested to BS EN 13141-1, or compress a closed cell seal or ‘o-ring’ between the cover
and frame (clamps may also be required to ensure that the
cover compresses the seal).
The thermal performance of the access hatch should
contribute to the overall thermal performance of the ceiling or
wall in which the hatch is located, and avoid cold bridging.
Proprietary hatches should be fitted and sealed to the
surrounding construction in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Insulation should be of sufficient thickness to meet the
requirements of Building Regulations, and laid over the whole
loft and wall plate. ventilation
opening
loft hatch
draught stripped
gaps sealed
at services
Table 8: Suitable materials for roof insulation

Material Standard
Mineral fibre mats BS EN 13162
Blown mineral fibre BS 5803-2
Blown cellulose fibre BS 5803-3
Dormer construction
Ventilation to dormers should be provided from eaves to eaves or from eaves to ridge.
7.2
Pipework
To reduce the risk of freezing or condensation forming
pipes insulated
on pipework, the following precautions should be taken: when above
loft insulation
where possible, water pipes should be below the main
roof insulation lap the tank
insulation
water pipes should be insulated in accordance with and the loft
insulation
Chapter 8.1 ‘Internal services’
3D
roof insulation should be placed above and around water
tanks, but not below them
‘cold rising’ pipework above ceiling level should be
rising main insulated
insulated, even where it is below the main roof insulation. above ceiling level
Chapter 7.2
7.2.16 Firestopping and cavity barriers Also see: Chapter 6.8
Pitched roofs shall be constructed to provide adequate fire resistance and separation.
Firestopping should be provided in accordance with building regulations, including:
at the junctions between a separating or compartment wall above separating walls
and a roof within the boxed eaves at separating walls.
at the junctions between cavities
When providing firestopping:
gaps between compartments should be sealed firestop between
batten and above
separating walls should stop approximately 25mm below underlay
the top of adjacent roof trusses, and a soft fire-resistant
packing, such as mineral wool, should be used to allow for firestop
movement in roof timbers and prevent ‘hogging’ of the tiles below underlay
a cavity barrier of fire-resisting board or a wire reinforced

mineral wool blanket (50mm minimum) nailed to the rafter cavity closed
and carefully cut to fully seal the boxed eaves should be at eaves
installed (ordinary mineral wool quilt is acceptable as

firestopping above separating walls) cavity barrier of mineral wool
or fire-resisting board in boxed eaves
a minimum 30min fire separation should be provided
between the home and an integral garage.
Combustible material, such as roof timbers and sarking felt, should be kept away from heat sources.
7.2.17 Battens
Battens and counter battens shall be adequately sized and spaced to support the roof covering.
Battens and counter battens should be:
in accordance with BS 5534, accompanied by a delivery cut square, butt jointed over rafters and nailed to each rafter
note and marked with the supplier, origin, grade and size they span
preservative treated fixed by skew driven nails on each side of the joint.
where cut ends are located in wet or dry verges,
treated with preservative
Counter battens should be fixed to the rafters and not only to sarking boards.
Battens should be:
a minimum of 1.2m long and span a minimum of fixed through counter battens to rafters
7.2
three rafters where on rigid sarking boards, supported on counter battens
set out in straight lines parallel to the ridge and to the at verges, tile battens should finish 25mm-50mm from the
gauge required for the tile or slate (the lap should not be face of the protecting undercloak
decreased as this would reduce weathertightness) sized in accordance with the roof covering manufacturer’s
set out so that the tiles project a minimum of 50mm over recommendations, but not less than shown in Table 9.
the gutter
Table 9: Minimum batten sizes
450mm span 600mm span
Depth Width Depth Width
Double lap slates Natural: sized or random 25mm 50mm 25mm 50mm
Fibre cement or concrete 25mm 38mm 25mm 50mm
Clay/concrete tiles Double lap 25mm 38mm 25mm 38mm
Single lap 25mm 38mm 25mm 50mm
Notes
1 Tolerances on the basic sizes of timber batten should be: width ±3 mm, depth −0 +3 mm.
Chapter 7.2
too many battens (in a group

Battens should be set out to avoid joints occurring over the of four) joined over the same rafter
same rafter. Where batten spacing is:
more than 200mm, no more than one batten in any group
of four should be joined over any one truss or rafter
200mm or less, no more than three joints should be made
over any 12 consecutive battens.
200mm
spacing
Batten fixings should be:

cut or wire nails in accordance with BS 5534 hot dip galvanised steel or aluminium, when used in
a minimum of 3.35mm x 65mm long (10 gauge) and coastal areas
a minimum of 30mm longer than the batten thickness in accordance with manufacturer’s guidance where
ring shank nails where specified (where the maximum basic mechanical nail guns are used.
wind speed is over 26m/s (National Annex Figure NA.1 of
BS EN 1991-1-4), galvanized smooth round nails are not
acceptable and ring shank nails should be used)
7.2.18 Roof coverings

Roof coverings shall be of a suitable quality and durability to protect the building from weather.
When covering a pitched roof:
coverings should be in accordance with the design and recovered materials may be used where prior approval
established building practices by NHBC has been granted (independent certification of
suitability may be required).
Table 10: Standards relevant to roof coverings
Material Standard
Clay tiles and fittings BS EN 1304
Concrete tiles and fittings BS EN 490 and BS EN 491
Dry fixed systems BS 8612
Natural slates BS EN 12326
Fibre cement slates and fittings BS EN 492
7.2
Natural stone Established practices

Lead sheet roofing BS 6915
Rolled lead sheet BS EN 12588
Thatch Standards set by the Thatching Advisory Services or other
appropriate authority, in accordance with Technical Requirement
R3
Shingles should be of western red cedar Grade 1 to the Canadian Standards Association
Sheet metal roofing, including lead, copper and zinc Technical Requirement R3
Proprietary roofs, roof lights and coverings Technical Requirement R3
Other roof coverings CP 143
Where slates and concrete or clay tiles are designated AA to BS 476-3, they can be used without limitation on pitched roofs.
Table 11: Acceptable characteristics for natural slates
Characteristics Grade (to BS EN 12326)
Water absorption less than 0.6% A1
Thermal cycle T1
Carbonate content less than 20% S1
Chapter 7.2
7.2.19 Fixing tiles and slates Also see: BS 5534
Coverings shall be suitably fixed to protect the building from weather. Issues to be taken into account
include:
a) eaves, ridge and hip tiles c) mortar
b) verges d) vertical tiling and slating.
Careful setting out will improve the finished appearance of the roof, help avoid problems such as unequal overhangs, and reduce
excessive tile cutting at abutments, chimneys and similar obstructions.
When installing coverings:
clay tiles that do not meet the dimensional and geometric double tiles, tile-and-a-half or half tiles can be used when
requirements given in BS EN 1304 should not be laid at available from the manufacturer (to avoid the use of
pitches less than 40° small sections of cut tiles). Alternatively, where the tile
joints between tiles and slates should be slightly open, manufacturer provides guidance, small sections of single
which provides some flexibility in setting out and should lap tile can be bonded to full tiles
help to avoid tile cutting (single lap interlocking tiles have a the bottom edges of double-lapped slate and plain tile roofs
tolerance of approximately 3mm at the joint) should be finished with an under-eaves course.
Table 12: Pitch, gauge and lap

Type or tile Gauge Minimum headlap Minimum permissible pitch (°)
Plain (double lap) Maximum 1/3 length lap 65mm generally for clay tiles 35 (clay)
75mm in severe exposure conditions 35 (plain concrete)
Concrete (single lap Comply with the 75mm or to the manufacturer’s 30(2)
interlocking) manufacturer’s recommendations
recommendations
Slates (double lap) Maximum 1/3 length lap 54mm(1) minimum, increased with lower 20 subject to headlap
pitch and severe exposure conditions
Notes
1 For pitches greater than 45° in sheltered and moderate exposure zones only.
2 For pitches below 30°, evidence shall be provided as to suitable performance.
When fixing coverings to a pitched roof:

the fixing schedule should be produced by the tile galvanized steel nails should not be used for slates and tiles
manufacturer; fixings for single and double lap tiles should (but are acceptable for fixing battens or underlay)
be in accordance with BS 5534 and BS EN 1994-1-4 fixings should be a minimum of 38mm long, and penetrate a
(evidence of calculations in compliance with Technical minimum of 15mm into battens
Requirements R3 and R5 may be required) tile clips should be of plastic, aluminium or stainless steel
coverings should be fixed in accordance with the design slates should be fully nailed over the whole roof, and nailed
7.2
and the manufacturer’s recommendations twice where centre nailed.
slates and tiles should be fixed using clout or slate nails
(these should be either silicon bronze, aluminium
to BS 1202-3 or copper to BS 1202-2).
Eaves, ridge and hip tiles

At eaves:
tiles should project a minimum of 50mm across the gutter
when using slates or plain tiles, an under-eaves course
should be used coverings to project
the height of the facia should maintain the tile pitch, in a min. of 50mm
across the gutter
accordance with the tile manufacturer’s recommendations.
Where ridge tiles are mortar bedded:

the underlay should extend over the ridge
underlay dressed
into gutter below
under-eaves tiles
Chapter 7.2
At hips:
underlay should continue to form a 150mm minimum lap where wet bedded tiles are used, they should be supported
parallel with the hip rafter at the base by a galvanized hip iron and project to the
centre line of the gutter.
Ridge and hip tiles should be mechanically fixed with self-sealing non-ferrous fixings into timber battens, and have a nominal
joint thickness of 10mm where wet bedded. Wet bedded ‘baby’ hip/ridge tiles to low level roofs, such as those over porches and
ground floor bay windows, do not require mechanical fixing, unless recommended by the manufacturer.
Proprietary dry fixed systems should be in accordance with BS 8612.
underlay ridge tiles bedded

carried in mortar and
over ridge mechanically fixed
Verges
Unless a proprietary dry verge system or cloaked verge is used, tiles should be bedded into a 100mm wide bed of mortar on
an undercloak of cement-based board, plain tile or slate. Plain tiles should not be used as an undercloak below 30°pitch or
on a bargeboard.
Undercloak should be:
fixed in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations bedded on roofing mortar and struck off flush with the
installed to a true line external surface of the wall (alternatively, a suitable exterior
installed at the correct level to ensure that the line of the grade bedding sealant should be used in accordance with
tiling is maintained where it passes over the wall, and not the manufacturer’s recommendations)
tilt inwards securely nailed to a true line where a bargeboard is used.
verge tiles bedded in underlay taken

mortar on undercloak over wall cavity
100mm
7.2
38-50mm
or
30-60mm
Where verge tiles and slates are wet bedded, pointing should be completed as soon as possible using the same mix.
Verge clips should be in full contact with the tile to resist uplift, nailed twice to battens and sized to ensure that they are in direct
contact with the top surface of the verge tile.
Where plain tiles and slates are used at the verge:
they should project 38-50mm beyond the gable wall natural slate verges should be formed with full slates and
or bargeboard either slate-and-a-half or half slates that are a minimum of
cut plain tiles are not acceptable, and purpose-made plain 150mm wide.
tile-and-a-half tiles should be used
Chapter 7.2
Where interlocking tiles are used at the verge:

they should project 30-60mm beyond the gable wall small sections (less than a half tile width) of cut interlocking
or bargeboard tiles should not be used.
Mortar
When bedding tiles or slates in mortar:
the mortar should be 1:3 cement:sand with plasticiser pointing should be completed as soon as possible using the
the mortar should be a mix based on sharp sand with soft same mix
sand added to achieve workability; the proportion of sharp tiles should be wetted on their contact surface, and surface
sand should not be less than one third of the total sand water allowed to drain away before fixing
content (proprietary mixes may be accepted by NHBC concealed or decorative dentil tiles should be fully bedded
where they are shown to have similar strength, durability into joints in excess of 25mm thick.
and workability)
Vertical tiling and slating

When fixing vertical tiling and slating:
a suitable moisture barrier should be used at internal or external angles, purpose-made corner tiles or
where the wall structure is solid brickwork or blockwork, soakers should be used to form a weathertight joint
the moisture barrier should be underfelt or equivalent where pitched roofs abut tiled walls, a stepped flashing
where the supporting structure is of timber construction, the should be specified and turned in behind the tiles
moisture barrier should be used with a breather membrane at dormer cheeks, the tiles or slates should be specified
batten sizes should be in accordance with this chapter to be cut close to the slope of the roof and over a flashing
every tile or slate should be nailed twice and the bottom fixed to the side of the dormer.
edges should be finished with an under-course tile
7.2.20 Weathering details Also see: Chapter 6.8
Weatherproofing shall be provided at abutments, flat roof intersections, changes in slopes and projections
to resist the passage of moisture to the inside of the building. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) abutments c) projections through the roof
b) flat roof intersection or changes in slope d) copings.
Flashing details should be appropriate for the roof and the type of roof covering used, in accordance with BS 5534. Where
flashings come into contact with metal, they should be formed using non-ferrous material.
Table 13: Suitable materials for flashings
Material Standard Additional information
7.2
Aluminium and BS EN 515 0.6-0.9mm thick, and protected from contact with mortar by a coating of
alloys bituminous paint
Copper BS EN 1172 Flashings, soakers and saddles should be:
fully annealed
0.55mm thick (0.7mm thick is suitable for gutters)
Rolled lead sheet BS EN 12588 Flashings, gutter linings etc. should:
be a minimum of yellow code, and soakers a minimum of green code
sections should not exceed 1.5m in length
Zinc alloy BS EN 988 Should be a minimum of 0.6mm thick
Proprietary Technical Requirement R3 Should be securely fixed in accordance with the
products manufacturer’s recommendations
Abutments
At abutments:
flashings, soakers and gutters should be joints between the masonry and flashing should be pointed
provided as necessary with cement mortar or suitable exterior grade sealant in
lead flashings should have a minimum lap of 100mm accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
flashings should be tucked 25mm into a brick joint and
wedged in place at not more than 450mm centres, or a
minimum of one per step for stepped flashings
Chapter 7.2
Where a flat or pitched roof over an enclosed area abuts a wall, or a balcony abuts a wall, cavity trays should be linked to the
flashing to prevent water penetrating into an enclosed area. Horizontal flashings should provide weathering to a minimum of
75mm above the intersection with the roof.
Where a pitched roof abuts the wall at an angle:
a stepped cavity tray linked to a stepped flashing stepped flashings should be a minimum of 65mm wide
should be used where slates, flat interlocking tiles or plain tiles are used,
stepped flashings should be cut from a strip a minimum of soakers (or a secret gutter) should be installed.
150mm wide
soakers beneath each stepped lead flashing
3D 3D tile and overlapped held in mortar joints
by the flashing with lead wedges
lead flashing
wedged into joint
min. below wall DPC
75mm min. 150mm
clip free edge of

flashing; method
depends on
exposure
underlay turned
underlay turned up at abutment
up behind flashing
Flat roof intersection or changes in slope

Where there is a change in the slope, or an intersection with a flat roof and:
the change is 5° or more (e.g. at mansards and sprockets), a saddle flashing should be used where a ridge meets the
flashings or soakers should be used main roof.
Where a flat roof adjoins a pitched roof:
the waterproof membrane should be carried up under the where the flat roof is over a dormer, the flat roof should
tiling to a height of 150mm above the flat roof, and lapped have a fall to the front or sides.
by the roofing underlay
the lowest course of tiles or slates should not touch the
roof membrane
lead saddle flashing dressed underlay overlaps
over GRP valley gutter weatherproofing
7.2
3D
approx.
150mm
fall
min. 150mm
GRP valley gutter

Chapter 7.2
Projections through the roof

Where there is a projection through the roof:
components should be installed according to the where pipes penetrate tiling, a weathertight joint should
manufacturer’s recommendations be formed using a lead slate flashing and upstand or a
flashings should be provided (e.g. at chimneys) purpose-made one-piece accessory (supplied by the roof
covering manufacturer); where lead slates are used they
should be supported (e.g. using exterior grade plywood) to
prevent sagging.
3D
cover flashing
cover
flashing
min. back gutter back gutter

150mm flashing supported flashing
by gutter boards
upper DPC tray
stepped side
flashing
lower DPC tray
back gutter
front apron
flashing
Copings
Copings, including those manufactured from natural stone reconstituted stone, and GRP, should be securely fixed to gable walls
using suitably durable fixings, and be weathertight.
To resist wind uplift and gravitational forces, L-shaped brackets should be used to secure stone copings to masonry walls.
The brackets should:
have dowel bars that fit into restraint holes in the copings be fixed to a solid piece of masonry, with fixings of a
be manufactured from stainless steel suitable length, gauge and durability.
(such as type 304 to BS EN 10088-2)
7.2
DPCs should be installed under the coping to ensure that the wall is weathertight. The DPC should:
be bitumen-based material to BS 6398, or other material be fully bedded in mortar
assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 be supported over the cavity.
extend the full width of the wall
Fixing methods that penetrate the DPC should be designed to ensure weathertightness. This can be achieved by extending the
lower DPC under the bracket, and installing the next section of the DPC over it to create a lap that covers the fixing point.
stainless steel continuous

DPC support brackets DPC clip fixing strip
GRP coping
plywood plate
compression
lead flashing seal
lead soakers cavity closer
masonry
light structure
adjoining roof covering and

DPC support flashing omitted for clarity
Chapter 7.2
Where GRP copings are used, they should:

be fixed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions allow for normal differential movement in the timber or
include a DPC LSF structure.
Further guidance can be found in Chapter 6.2 ‘External timber framed walls’.
7.2.21 Valleys and hidden gutters

Valleys shall have suitable weathering details, including flashings, to resist the passage of moisture to the
inside of the building.
Valleys, and the components used, should:
be in accordance with the design have a lead flashing (minimum code 4) or other suitable
have a finished pitch which complies with the minimum saddle flashing, at the head of each valley
recommended for the roof be formed using either preformed GRP, valley coursing
be fixed in accordance with the tiles (plain tiles), valley trough tiles (interlocking tiles),
manufacturer’s recommendations non-ferrous metal or a proprietary system to Technical
small cut tiles should be avoided Requirement R3.
Where the roof covering is slate or plain tiles, the following may be used:
a laced valley a mitred valley with soakers.
a swept valley
Valleys using valley tiles
Where valleys are formed using valley tiles:
purpose-made valley coursing tiles should be used where they should be mechanically cut to the correct rake
the roof uses plain tiles adjacent coverings should be neatly cut to form a smooth
purpose-made valley trough tiles should be supported junction, and preferably be cut from tile-and-a-half tiles
by gutter boards where the roof uses single lap they should be bedded in mortar with a minimum 100mm
interlocking tiles wide channel (minimum 125mm for pitches below 30°).
Lead-lined valleys
For lead-lined valleys, the tiles should be cut and bedded as for valley tiles, except that the mortar should be bedded on an
undercloak (to prevent direct contact between the lead and the mortar). Mortar should not bridge the welt detail.
Lead should be:
either code 4 (blue) or code 5 (red) laid in strips no longer than 1.5m
supported on gutter boards of 19mm exterior grade ply, or lapped by a minimum of 150mm, where pitches are
as specified in the design above 30°.
7.2
Proprietary gutter or valley systems

Proprietary gutter or valley systems should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, and securely fixed to
suitable supports (exterior grade materials should be used).
7.2.22 Drainage
Roof drainage shall adequately carry rainwater to a suitable outlet.
Drainage should be:
provided where roofs are greater than 6m2; however, fixed in accordance with the design, using the correct type
consideration should be given to providing drainage to of fittings for internal and external angles, outlets etc. to
smaller roofs such as dormer, porch roofs and balconies ensure efficient drainage of the roof
(see Clause 7.1.12) supported and jointed in accordance with the
of a sufficient size to accommodate normal rainfall, manufacturer’s recommendations
and sized to cope with concentrated flows, i.e. where insulated when passing through a home, in accordance with
there are dormer roofs Chapter 8.1 ‘Internal services’
designed and fitted to prevent erosion of the lower surface, installed ensuring gutters are provided with stop ends,
where water from a large roof surface discharges onto and are laid with a sufficient fall towards the outlet,
another surface unless designed to be flat.
Where gutters are behind parapet walls, a suitably sized overflow should be provided.
Where a downpipe discharges above ground level, or above a drainage gully, the downpipe should be fitted with shoes.
Chapter 7.2
7.2.23 Fascias and trim Also see: Chapter 3.3
Fascias, bargeboards and soffits shall be appropriately fixed and treated against decay.
Table 14: Materials acceptable for facia boards
Exterior grade plywood BS EN 636 Class 3
High density fibre reinforced calcium silicate board BS EN 12467
Glass fibre reinforced cement (GRC) board BS EN 12467
When installing fascia boards and soffits:

timber for external feature work should be free from waney where timber is to be painted, it should be knotted and
edges, large knots, resinous pockets, splits and other primed on all surfaces before fixing
unsightly defects where timber requires a stained finish, one coat of stain
timber for fascias, bargeboards and soffits should be should be applied before fixing
pretreated with preservative each joint should be cut and fixed neatly.
where preservative treated timber is cut or planed,
preservative should be applied to the cut edge
Fascia boards should be fixed:
twice to each rafter with splayed butt joints.
7.2.24 Spandrel panels in cold roofs

Spandrel panels shall provide satisfactory performance.
Spandrel panels used in cold roof voids to create separation between dwellings or to form the inner leaf of gable walls should be
designed, manufactured and installed to provide satisfactory performance. Items to be taken into account include:
fire resistance structural stability.
acoustic transfer
Spandrel panels that comply with guidance from the Structural Timber Association or the Trussed Rafter Association will
generally be acceptable to NHBC.
7.2

NHBC Standards 2023 7

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

NHBC Standards 2023 7

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

NHBC Standards 2023 7

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Flat roofs, terraces

Definitions for this chapter

7.1.1 Compliance Also see: Chapter 2.1

7.1.2 Provision of information

7.1.3 Flat roof, terrace and balcony general design

counter battens or suspended ceiling system deck

trapezoidal steel deck joists with insulation

counter battens or suspended ceiling system ceiling finish

root barrier over waterproofing layer filter layer

bedding hard paving on pedestals

rounded 20-40mm shingle ballast

Roof, terrace, and balcony constructions using the individual elements

Warm roof construction

Inverted warm roof construction

Cold roof construction Blue roof make up

roof topping e.g. green roof,

void formers for temporary water

warm roof or inverted warm roof

Where tapered insulation is used:

Table 1: Size of firring pieces used to from falls

Where a detailed analysis is not undertaken the roof should be

Solid or engineered joists

Firrings fixed perpendicular

Table 2: Suggested ‘Design’ falls for various roof types

Zero fall roofs

7.1.5 Flat roof, terrace and balcony structural design

7.1.6 Timber structure and deck

Structure and durability

Timber structure should:

Table 3: Materials used for deck to flexible membrane roof coverings

Table 5: Materials used for deck to lead roof coverings

Joists hangers, straps and strutting

gap between joist and

strap with 30x2.5mm

lowest fixing max. 150mm

Strutting should be provided to prevent excessive movement, and:

Table 6: Spacing for strutting

Installing timber decks

Cross Laminated Timber (CLT)

7.1.7 Concrete decks

Structure and durability

Precast concrete decks should:

7.1.8 Profiled self-supporting metal decks

Material and profile

Sheet cover width

Profile (pitch) width

Profiled metal deck features

Warm roof construction – with metal deck

reinforced air and vapour

trapezoidal metal deck

Inverted warm roof construction

water flow reduction

waterproofing layer (also

trapezoidal metal deck

7.1.9 Profiled self-supporting metal roofing

Profile sheet roofing can be:

Twin skin build-up

Standing seam roof (secret fixings)

Example of edge seal with composite roof panels