Roof framing plans and inspections are essential when building or buying a new home. While general roof inspections can identify insect or minor water damage, roof framing inspections detect structural issues. But what is a roof framing plan? Are roof framing problems a real issue? Read on to find out.
Note that Action Property Inspections are specialist pre-purchase property inspectors. We do not offer roof inspections as a stand alone service.
What is a roof framing plan?
A roof framing plan is completely different to your typical roof inspection – which can only identify external problems such as rot, termite damage or missing tile. Your average roof inspector of choice cannot complete a roof framing plan. It must be completed by a structural engineer.
Simply put, a roof framing plan shows the internal structure and supports of your roof. Without a certified roof framing plan, your home builder, carpenter, or roof installer doesn’t know what supports exist within your roof.
When buying a new home (even if it is an older home), these plans are usually included with the property blueprints.
What is included in a roof framing plan?
There are several types of roofs. The most common are the following:
- Hip
- Gabled
- Flat
- Skillion
Each roof type has different requirements regarding load bearing specifications, ceiling joists and even the type of material that can be used. Roof framing plans and roof framing inspections are conducted by a structural engineer, with alterations requiring prior approval.
In South Australia, for instance, a qualified truss designer must supply evidence to the structural engineer of the types of materials and sizing they intend to use before the roof framing can be approved.
The plans may also look at the placement of windows, dormers, doors, and whether there is enough room for heating/cooling units or storage.
All of this will be examined in detail by your structural engineer and included in a roof framing plan provided to your home builder. For your home to pass certification, it must be strictly followed.
What causes problems with roof framing and are they dealbreakers when purchasing new property?
Problems with roof framing are also governed by the type of roof you have, and the materials with which it is built. Structural framing constructed with timber will be subject to different issues than frames made with steel, for example.
When done correctly, roof framing should be completely straight, with no distortion or sagging. Distortion or sagging may be caused by issues with the roof framing, particularly in the rafters, beams, or trusses.
When buying a new home, there are some common signs to look for. These include:
- Cracked plaster
- Buckled ceilings
- Warped windows or door frames (or windows and doors that are difficult to open/close)
If these issues are found, it isn’t always a dealbreaker – regardless of the age of the home or whether the issue is structural or cosmetic. Depending on the extent of the damage to your roof framing, safe and cost-effective solutions can be found in the replacement of worn or rotted joints and ineffective trusses, which is a much more budget-friendly option.
Should your roof frame need replacing, however, it can be a costly exercise (especially as it can also depend on your location). According to Fixr, the average cost of replacing a new roof runs between $14,500 to $18,400, which is something you should factor into your renovation budget if these issues are found prior to purchasing a property.
Safety is paramount where roof framing is concerned. If you suspect your property has roof framing problems, call an expert to minimise damage as soon as possible.
To discuss roof framing plans and pre-purchase building inspections, get in touch with Action Property Inspections today.