While the term "Scotia roof" isn't a standard classification for an entire roof type, "Scotia" refers to a specific, important component often found on roof structures, particularly on the gables.
Understanding Scotia in Roofing
Based on the provided information, a Scotia is defined as:
- The thin beading of timber that holds the cement up on the gables.
In simpler terms, it's a strip of wood molding used along the edges of the roof on the gable ends. Its primary function is to provide support for the cement that finishes the join between the roof covering and the gable wall or bargeboard. This cement helps to waterproof and protect the verge (the edge of the roof overhanging the gable wall).
Role and Importance of Scotia
The Scotia beading plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and safety of the gable ends:
- Support for Cement: It acts as a foundational ledge or support for the cement mortar applied along the verge.
- Weather Protection: By supporting the cement, it helps create a weather-tight seal, preventing water ingress at the vulnerable gable edges.
- Structural Security: It prevents the cement from dislodging and falling.
The reference highlights the critical consequence of its condition:
- When this starts to rot there is nothing to stop that cement falling down to the ground or onto your head.
This underscores why the maintenance of this seemingly small timber piece is vital. If the Scotia deteriorates due to rot or damage, the cement it supports can become loose and fall, posing a significant safety hazard to anyone below and potentially leading to further damage or water penetration into the roof structure or walls.
Maintenance Considerations
Given its function and the risk associated with its failure, regular inspection of the timber Scotia on your gables is recommended, especially on older properties where timber components may have degraded over time. Replacing rotten Scotia is essential to maintain the structural integrity of the gable verge and prevent the cement from falling.
In summary, while you won't typically find a roof categorized as a "Scotia roof," understanding what Scotia is—a crucial timber beading on gables supporting the verge cement—is key to understanding how certain roof edges are constructed and maintained.
