Roofing Solutions for Desert Heat

A few weeks ago, we wrote about how the steep pitch of the Swiss Cottage roof evolved in response to the dangers of heavy snowfall in the mountains. This week, we take a look at some roofing responses to hot weather.

In hot, dry climates, roofs provide vital shade. In places where the temperature never drops too low and where roofs do not need to be waterproof, they tend to be lighter. Traditionally, a light weave of branches - enough to keep out the sun by day and larger flying insects at night - would be sufficient. As migration to shanty towns increases, these weaving skills are being abandoned. Weaved roofs are now often replaced by a tarpaulin or sheet of corrugated aluminium.

There are some fantastically innovative roofing responses to the challenges of desert heat. In Alice Springs Australia, a firm of architects designed this house with a fly roof. The fly roof sits two feet above the main roof and, as the pocket of air between the two heats up, a thermal draw is created dragging cooler air through the house. Electricity is provided from an array of photovoltaic cells on the roof. The fly roof is also constructed to be wide with a slight pitch to maximise rainwater collection.

Image: gizmag

We’ve probably got a couple of centuries before climate change kicks in to such an extent that Norfolk houses need to start considering fly roofs. In the meantime, we can construct you a solid dependable roof that is guaranteed to keep out the more typical British weather. If you have any questions about roofs or rooflines, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01603 418818.