An independent roofing contractor based in the West Midlands specialising in domestic roof projects throughout the UK
An independent roofing contractor based in the West Midlands specialising in domestic roof projects throughout the UK
Bargeboard is fastened to the ends of the gable roofs to add strength and conceal the exposed ends of the roof’s timbers.
Bargeboards can also have a significant visual influence on a home. Of course, this is deliberate because the main function of bargeboards is just to improve the aesthetics of that area of the roof or building. Moreover, they also have a more useful purpose by covering any exposed objects and aiding in their protection.
Bargeboards will keep the roof lining dry and clear of any gaps along the margins of your roofing, which is one of their key functional advantages. The major advantage of installing bargeboards on your house is purely aesthetic; they give the roofline a fantastic appearance and individuality.
Bargeboards are made from a variety of materials, most common materials for bargeboards are:
Wood
uPVC
Fibre Cement
OSB Based Materials
Below we will describe some pros and cons of these materials.
Real benefits come from using wood for exterior trim, such as bargeboards. Real wood is both light and sturdy. It is simple to install and offers a variety of design options. To match cladding and other elements, wood can be easily painted.
Wood barge boards can be divided into two primary categories: primed white wood and cedar.
Primed White Wood is a fantastic option for bargeboards because of its many benefits. It is affordable, easily accessible, and lightweight. Installation is quick and simple.
Anyhow, primed white wood is naturally vulnerable to decay, so you will have to give it extra attention.
For barge board, cedar is a fantastic option. Without sub-fascia, it is structurally sound enough to be employed. In comparison to OSB and fibre cement, it is substantially lighter.
This wood is resistant to deterioration, and if the flashing is knocked loose and gets wet, it will shrink back to its original size.
However, it is significantly more expensive than fibre cement, OSB, or primed white wood, especially in large lengths.
The key advantage of using uPVC for these components is that they are durable and require almost no upkeep. There is no need to paint them because they are made of bright white plastic that won’t deteriorate, and there are many more colours if you want a different appearance. uPVC is a long-lasting material.
However, uPVC bargeboards tend to deteriorate in colour. After a few years, the UV rays of the sun will turn them yellow. Sadly, this process cannot be stopped. The sun’s rays also cause uPVC bargeboards to become more brittle over time.
Over recent years, fibre cement has gained popularity as a trim product. If made properly, it has no inherent flaws, is fairly durable, stable in most situations, and won’t decay.
However, there are also some significant disadvantages to using it as a barge board. When installing fibre cement, it’s so heavy that it’s the same as carrying a bag of cement above your head, and it gets difficult for the installers.
The length of the boards is another flaw. In comparison to wood, fibre cement bargeboards are shorter in length. Additionally, fibre cement boards are expensive and can increase labour costs.
Since OSB weighs substantially less than fibre cement, installation is much simpler. Because of the resin binders and grain orientation, it is substantially less brittle than fibre cement.
Of course, there are certain disadvantages. The boards are sensitive to moisture and rain. Although OSB contains enough resin to prevent decay, swelling brought on by water is a serious problem with it. The ends never return to their previous size after swelling. The structural integrity of the barge might potentially be harmed by this.
In a very dry environment, an OSB-based barge might be the right material choice.
The question of whether or not a damaged bargeboard can be replaced may be on your mind. Bargeboards that are broken or appear old and worn can be changed, so don’t panic. Before installing your new bargeboard, it may be necessary to replace the tiles that are cemented next to the bargeboards in place and fastened to it, depending totally on the state of the fascia and the roof timber beneath.
Hopefully, this information is sufficient for you to make a decision. Furthermore, if you are interested in installing bargeboards, it is best if you employ the services of a professional company.
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