What Is A Parapet Roof? What Are The Benefits Of Parapet Roofs?
What Is A Parapet Roof?
A parapet roof is a type of roofing design where the side walls of the building extend above the level of the main roof. This style is often seen in buildings with multiple levels, such as a hotel or apartment complexes.
It provides extra protection against strong winds and can also be used to hide mechanical systems on the roof from view. Parapet roofs also allow for alternative drainage options, such as flat roofs or water collection tanks which can be installed on top of them.
What Shape Is A Parapet Roof?
A parapet roof is usually characterized by its shape, which can be flat, sloped, stepped, or curved. Flat roofs have a uniform level surface across their entire perimeter and are suitable for urban areas that don’t experience extreme weather.
Sloped roofs are slightly angled and can come in various pitches depending on the area they’re located in. Stepped parapet roofs feature multiple steps of varying heights that add additional layers of protection from the elements.
Lastly, curved or concave parapet roofs are often found in more traditional architecture. Depending on their construction material, all four types of parapet roofs can be suitable for different climates and regions.
What Are The Benefits Of Parapet Roofs?
Parapet roofs provide aesthetic appeal to the building, in addition to providing safety benefits as the walls extend up above the roofline and act as a barrier against falling hazards or even potential fires reaching that area of the structure.
They can also be used to increase fire protection by incorporating slightly thicker walls which are designed to stop any roofing membrane from setting alight should flames ever reach that height.
Parapet roofs have also been known to lower energy costs, as they provide additional insulation and reduce temperature transfer from hot or cold climates. Finally, parapet roofs provide a level of privacy for structures located near public areas, such as terraces or gardens.
What Is The Purpose Of A Parapet Wall In A Pitched Roof?
The purpose of a parapet wall in a pitched roof is to provide protection against the elements, such as wind and rain while allowing ventilation to circulate. It can also act as a guardrail, an aesthetic feature on the roofline, and as part of fire safety measures.
Parapets are also beneficial in managing snow drifts that can build up along eaves or in valleys which may cause damage to the roof and its underlying structure if left unattended for too long.
In addition, parapets can be used for structural support for gutter systems or balcony walkways. Furthermore, they help enhance the appearance of buildings from both interior and exterior design aspects since they frame the edge of a building’s roofline.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Parapet Roof?
Parapet roofs can be quite prone to leaks and water damage since they lack a shield of traditional overhanging eaves that would otherwise deflect water away from the walls.
This can cause extensive problems if left unrepaired, as small leaks have the potential to freeze during cold weather and then thaw, resulting in the brickwork becoming damaged over time.
Furthermore, water can seep into crevices and accumulate in different areas, leading to issues such as mold and rot which weaken the structure of the entire building.
As a result, regular maintenance is necessary for parapet roofs in order to catch any leak before it becomes an expensive problem.
