Before you start sarking your roof, it’s essential to carefully read the installation instructions and check the preparation requirements. If necessary, remove any loose debris from the roof cavity and ensure it is completely dry. To begin, lay a first strip of sarking along the eaves of the roof space, overlapping each sheet by about 150mm (6").

Thermoseal reflective foil roof sarking

Bradford Thermoseal reflective foil roof shingles are the latest innovation in non-vapour-permeable roof sarking. This product offers the benefits of a non-permeable reflective foil, as well as a smoother interior finish. It is particularly suitable for use on tile/metal roofs, and its heavy-weight design makes it ideal for windy conditions.

Another option is Sisalation, a double-sided, reflective roof sarking made by Australian manufacturer Fletcher Insulation. Made of an aluminium foil layer bonded to a tough kraft paper layer and reinforced with strands of yarn, this type of sarking is highly reflective and can help to reduce the temperature of your ceiling. It can also be used as a roof sarking with bulk insulation.

Sisalation(r) pliable building membrane

Besides ensuring a stable and waterproof roof, Sisalation also contributes to the Total R-value of a building. Its highly pliable structure helps to reduce draughts and enhance the performance of bulk wall insulation. As a result, it adds to the comfort of building occupants. Moreover, it helps to reduce noise, which can be a big problem with metal roofs.

For those looking for an excellent sarking solution, Fletcher Insulation manufactures Sisalation roof sarking, a double-sided reflective foil laminate. This material is fire retardant and suitable for areas prone to bushfires. Additionally, its high reflectivity and low emissivity make it an excellent thermal insulation material. The R-value of Sisalation is R-30, whereas R-38 and R-49 are commonly found in ceilings.

Other sarking materials

In the UK, sarking is usually done using sarking boards. These boards are attached to the rafters of a pitched roof and provide extra support and strength. However, in other parts of the world, such as Scotland, sarking boards are not specified for refurbishment purposes. Unlike other types of sarking, replacing sarking boards would require a complete re-roof, which would exceed the building’s load-carrying capacity.

Using sarking on your roof will provide the benefit of preventing moisture from entering the space between rafters. It can protect against moisture damage, mould growth, and unsightly stains on the ceiling. It can also help cut energy costs by preventing draughts in the roof space. This is a significant benefit because it can improve the efficiency of air conditioning and heating systems. In addition, it will reduce the amount of debris that enters the home.

Cost-effectiveness

The long-term durability of a slate roof is a major advantage over a tile or asphalt roof. Additionally, a slate roof can improve the value of any home. While roofing with a tile or asphalt roof is relatively inexpensive, the need for repair and maintenance is constant with a poor-quality roof. A high-quality slate roof reduces the need for re-roofing, which is a significant expense. The whole-life cost of a slate roof is low, especially if you choose the Heavy 3 variety.

Slate is a metamorphic rock made of clay and volcanic ash, and is a natural roofing material. It is heavy and expensive to install, but its natural appearance and durability make it an attractive choice for some homeowners. A slate roof also doesn’t contribute to the environment’s pollution problems. Regardless of the type of roof you choose, slate is worth considering for your home’s aesthetic appeal and budget.

Protection from flying embers

You may have heard that your roof is one of the biggest potential sources of flying embers. This is certainly true if your home has an asphalt shingle roof. However, roofs can also be compromised by flammable materials, such as wood shake shingles. In addition, they are more prone to catching fire, so they must be protected as much as possible. If you’re one of these homeowners, the following tips will help you protect your home from flying embers.

If your home is built from wood, shingles, composition or metal, your roof is at a high risk of catching fire. However, you can reduce your risks by installing noncombustible roofing materials, reducing the amount of vegetation and landscaping, and installing adequate defensible space. Proper ventilation is essential for protecting your home from flying embers and direct flames. While most homes have a gable-end vent, this will not protect your home from radiant heat.