Gable house roof design

[dbhansen]

I know nothing about roof design, but I hope to be able to copy what others have done as I design and build my enclosure. The pics below show 2 styles that would probably work for me, but is one stronger than the other? For a roofing material, I think I want to use decorative metal tiles or imitation slate or something similar, so it might be heavier than just sheet metal. The design with a beam running the length of the peak looks easier to build, but is it as strong as the homemade trusses?

Also, can I use backerboard as an underlayment, or is plywood necessary for some materials?

Daren

[Ken524]

Originally Posted by dbhansen

The pics below show 2 styles that would probably work for me, but is one stronger than the other?

I'm really familiar with that first design . Like you, I don't know squat about roofing. After making the trusses, I added bracing where I thought I needed it. Once I added my braces the whole thing became solid as a rock. In comparing the two styles I think strength is likely a wash. I suspect the other style would be plenty strong (and maybe easier to build).

In the same way drywall firms up 2x4 room framing, your backer board will firm up about any roof design.

Also, can I use backerboard as an underlayment, or is plywood necessary for some materials?

Plywood is easy to screw into, but I wouldn't do it because of flammability issues. My oven insulation is only slightly warm to the touch at full heat. I have no doubt that plywood would probably be OK. But I'm a worst case scenario kind of guy. Under all that insulation is an ugly monster that can spontaneously ignite any wood exposed to it. If something should happen to your insulation... enough said

I don't know what you could use as backer board. I guess Hardibacker would work, but I'll let someone else jump in and give you good advice.

[dbhansen]

Originally Posted by Ken524

I'm really familiar with that first design .

Even with my expert cropping job? Hope you don't mind my using your pic as an example. But anyone who has been following my build knows by now that I've been trying to follow in your footsteps, so it's no surprise. Maybe my roof will be different, at least!

Daren

[Ken524]

Originally Posted by dbhansen

Even with my expert cropping job? Hope you don't mind my using your pic as an example.

Shoot, I don't mind! I stole all my building techniques from others here. That's what this place is for!