How to retro-fit sarking in roof space?

arthur1

My question is can sarking be retro fitted internally from inside the roof space and if so what would be the right way?

MitchellMc

Did you intend to try and install the sarking under the timber and above the timber as normal or below the timbers? You wouldn't be able to install the sarking as normal from inside the roof as the batons would inhibit your ability to install it. There would be gaps everywhere which would defeat the purpose.

For what purpose did you want to install the sarking? Typically, sarking is used to inhibit storm-driven rain, leaks, condensation and heat transfer in your roof space and is installed directly under the roof tiles. The water runs down the sarking and out of the roof. To protect the roof frame timbers, it needs to go under the tiles and on top of the timbers. Retrofitting it internally from the inside would prove relatively ineffective at excluding moisture from your roof cavity. However, it could potentially assist with preventing heat transfer.

If you were to install the sarking under the roof timbers, you'd likely need to use something like Pryda Foil Fix to nail it in position and tape all joins with sarking tape. A concern I would have with installing the sarking under the roof timbers is that you'll then be trapping them in a high-humidity environment that could lead to early decay.

I'm keen to hear more about the issues you'd like to address and provide further assistance. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

TwoThumbs

Hi, I've come late to this post but it's a question which interests me. The advice elsewhere is that sarking should be under the battens (when dealing with a tile roof).

I've got to say, working up from underneath would be slightly less arduous than removing all the tiles to lay sarking.

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @TwoThumbs. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about sarking.

Yes, when installing sarking, the batons are always put on last. However, the sarking is still installed over the rafters, which requires the tiles to be removed. The discussion here is about installing sarking beneath the rafters, which is typically not the best solution. It's always best to install it over the rafters, attach the batons and install the tiles. Though, this means removing your roof tiles.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell