Roof Frame / Timber Frame
Sheet under review by our engineersImagine the skeleton of your house, but for the roof. The roof frame is the set of beams and elements that support the entire roof covering (sheets, tiles, etc.). It's the invisible load-bearing structure that gives your roof its shape.
Why it matters for your home
This is the foundation of everything! A solid roof structure (truss/framework) ensures your roof won't collapse and will withstand wind and rain. If it's poorly built, your roof could sag, shift, or even collapse, endangering your family and your investment.
The African context
In Africa, roof structures are often made of wood (local or imported) or sometimes metal. It's crucial that the wood is well-dried and treated against termites and moisture, which are common scourges. Under-dimensioned or poorly assembled roof structures are frequent problems, especially given intense winds and rains.
Red flags
- ⚠ The wood is green, wet, or already shows signs of insect damage.
- ⚠ The beams appear warped, cracked, or too thin for the span.
- ⚠ The joints between wooden pieces are crude, without metal reinforcements (brackets, plates).
- ⚠ The contractor does not mention anti-termite or anti-moisture treatment for the wood.
Questions to ask
- 1. "What type of wood (or metal) is used for the roof structure?"
- 2. "Will the wood be treated against insects (termites) and moisture? If so, with what product and by whom?"
- 3. "Who designed this roof structure? Are there plans or calculations available?"
Cost hint (indicative)
The cost of the roof structure can represent a significant portion of the roof budget, ranging from 1,500,000 to 5,000,000 FCFA or more, depending on size, material, and complexity.
At this stage of your project?
An independent DiasporaBuild inspector can verify on site before you pay.