Construction of a Cottage Roof

Design and Cost

• Roof design can affect the overall cost of building a cottage. For example, adding a 45-degree roof will require larger trusses or longer rafters than a 30-degree angle for the roof. Dormers can add to the labor cost, if you hire the work performed. It takes longer to cut and install needed materials for dormers than a simple sloped roof, for example.

Advantages of Trusses

• Premade trusses are an easy option. By purchasing trusses to fit into place, you will save time and labor costs on cutting roof angles for rafters and attic joists. Trusses can be constructed to allow a vaulted ceiling in the loft area. This way, you can easily create attic storage or living space on a second level.

Basic Roof Sheathing

• Plywood sheathing is common for cottage or cabin roofs. You can easily cover the roof with asphalt shingles, metal sheeting or cedar shakes. Half-inch thick plywood helps insulate the roof and provides a smooth surface to crawl around on for getting a roof covering in place.

Roof Guttering

• Take all guttering and rain issues into consideration. If you do install steel metal roofing on a cottage, for example, be sure to cut the metal to extend down to gutters. Metal roofing that stops an inch or so too short can cause water from gutters to run back under the roofing. Leaf guard covering over guttering is a good idea, if the cottage is near lots of trees.

Venting Issues

• Louvered vents are required for an enclosed cottage attic. Heat escaping from the structure into the attic must have openings for moving out. If you plan to construct a sleeping loft or storage room, you will need to plan heating and cooling via a heat pump system or other methods. Keep in mind that birds can build nests in an attic after coming in through vent openings. Install wire netting over the vents to block entry.