What is meant by roof renovation?
Roof renovation is one of the most important investments in maintaining the value and energy efficiency of a building. But what exactly is meant by roof renovation? Many homeowners equate the term with individual repairs in reality, it refers to a complete modernization of the entire roof .
In the following article, we explain in an easy-to-understand way what a roof renovation is, what role roof insulation and roof insulation play, what services are included, and how a roof renovation differs from a roof extension.
What exactly is a roof renovation?
Roof renovation refers to the complete renewal and modernization of an existing roof to meet current technical standards.
Typically, the roof structure and existing roof shape are retained. The goal is to modernize the roof in terms of energy efficiency, building physics, and aesthetics.
As part of a roof renovation, the roof is rebuilt, insulated, and re-covered. Proper roof insulation also commonly referred to as roof waterproofing – is a key component of this process.
Roof insulation more than just saving energy
Roof insulation is a complex interplay of various building physics requirements. It’s not just about thermal insulation in winter, but also about:
- Insulation value (U-value)
- Heat protection in summer
- Soundproofing
- Moisture protection and building physics
- Fire protection
- Statics and load transfer
Depending on the building, roof shape and use, there are different ways to carry out roof insulation professionally.
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Proven solution for roof renovations in existing buildings
Many roof renovations in existing buildings utilize a combination of rafter insulation and on-roof insulation . This option offers several advantages:
- The living space can usually remain occupied.
- Ceilings usually do not need to be opened or removed.
- Very good energy efficiency and building physics properties
Do skylights and dormers belong to roof renovation?
Yes. The installation of new roof windows or the installation or energy-efficient renovation of dormer windows also fall under the umbrella of roof renovation.
This includes modern roof windows:
- sun protection
- thermal insulation glazing
- Interior clothing
professionally integrated and airtightly connected.
Difference between roof renovation and roof extension
A common misconception: roof renovation and roof extension are often equated however, technically and legally they are two completely different measures.
Roof renovation
- The existing roof structure will be retained.
- Roof shape remains the same
- No or minimal permitting requirements
- Significantly lower costs
Roof extension
If the entire top floor is demolished and a new, higher or steeper roof truss is then built, this is called a roof extension.
This is usually:
- Subject to approval
- It involves a high level of bureaucracy (structural engineering, fire protection, building permit).
- Significantly more expensive
- This involves the complete dismantling of the living space.
- Requires extensive emergency sealing during the construction phase
What does a roof renovation entail?
A professional roof renovation consists of many individual work steps that must be precisely coordinated.
Typical services included in a roof renovation are:
Construction site setup
,e.g., barriers, parking restrictions, construction crane, machinery costs
Scaffolding
is absolutely necessary for reasons of occupational safety and economic efficiency.
Demolition work,
dismantling of the old roof covering, insulation and substructure
Insulation work / Roof insulation:
Installation of roof insulation including airtight membrane, vapor barrier or vapor retarder.
Substructure:
Reinforcing the roof truss, counter battens, roof battens, gable and eaves boards
Roof window
installation of new roof windows including accessories and interior lining
Dormer windows:
new construction or complete energy-efficient renovation of existing dormers
Sheet metal work:
chimney flashings, gutters, eaves flashing, valley flashing, dormer cladding and much more.
Roofing:
Final re-roofing with the desired roofing material
Once completed, the scaffolding can either be dismantled directly or a photovoltaic system can be installed at the same time.
