Eaves overhang - an obligatory part of the design of the roofing "cake". In essence, this is a ledge that extends beyond the level of the wall of a house. Its upper part is a continuation of the roof decoration, and the back side, facing down, needs a special design. For these purposes, lining of different materials is used. The most practical solution is metal spotlights, which provide a reliable mechanical fence, as well as facilitate the passage of air under the roof.
Classification of metal spotlights
From the point of view of structural performance, one, two and three-way panels are distinguished. The choice of one of these options should be done based on the requirements for the mechanical resistance of the skin. Also, the presence of perforation affects the strength. Traditional solid panels do not provide for ventilation, so they are often used in open roof structures. As an example of such objects can be called verandas and arbors. For a home, it is preferable to use a perforated metal spotlight, which is designed just to close the overhangs in high-grade residential buildings. The corrugation provides a loose fit to the overhang material, which creates the conditions for the circulation of air flows.
In addition, perforated spotlights are also advantageous because of their high strength. The same corrugation acts as a kind of stiffening ribs that prevent excessive bending. A combination panel is also common, in which partial perforation is realized. This is a universal option, which is suitable for small household buildings, and for covering the roof of cottages and traditional private houses.
Galvanized Steel Models
This type of spotlights is represented by flat steel sheets made of a roofing alloy. They act as a technological component in the arrangement of ventilation ducts, and are also successfully used as a protective element of the roof. The usual corrugated board for many is associated with an unsightly appearance, which does not introduce any stylistic diversity in the decoration of the facade. However, metal siding soffit made of galvanized steel is available on the market with different color options. It is important to distinguish processing materials, because, in addition to the aesthetic effect, it should also provide protective functions, among which are anticorrosive.
Experts recommend purchasing such panels with polyester-based coatings. Profiled trapezoidal sheets are also available, in which the corrugation height can reach 20 mm. But in any case, it is important not to forget that the strength of steel is good during operation at the installation site. During installation, it is problematic to trim and process the material at home, so it is worth initially agreeing on the appropriate services with a roofer who will qualitatively modify the material with a special tool.
Aluminum soffits
Aluminum panels will not cause processing problems, as is the case with steel. This is a flexible and pliable material, but, again, these qualities will pass on to the roof structure after installation. The mechanical weakness of aluminum is compensated by the application of protective films. In particular, polyester, anodized and polyamide shells are used, due to which the metal's resistance to weathering is increased. Also, spotlights made of metal on an aluminum basis are available in perforated versions. This metal, of course, in many technical indicators loses to steel, but on the other hand, it costs less, delivers less installation hassle and weighs less.
Pluses of metal spotlights
If we compare the general group of metal options for binder with alternative solutions, then in the list of pluses there will be such qualities as strength, reliability, environmental safety and durability. As for the reliability characteristics, in this regard, polymer-treated steel would be the best choice. Copper also has its advantages as a durable material, which, unlike steel, does not need additional anti-corrosion treatment. If light metal spotlights are required for roofing, then the choice should be made in favor of aluminum. It is believed that metal loses to wood and plastics because of its heavy weight, but just this material can become a compromise choice in terms of optimizing the mass of the structure.
Cons spotlights from metal
By and large, modern metal panels for cladding under-roof space do a good job of all the operational requirements that apply to this part of the roof. The disadvantages are more likely due to the increased characteristics of vinyl, wood and polyvinyl chloride soffits. Against their background, both steel and even lightweight and machined aluminum seem less practical. Mostly metal spotlights are oriented towards providing protective properties, but at the same time they noticeably lose in the flexibility of installation operations. And this is not to mention the cost of galvanized steel and aluminum with film coatings. Often, such panels are many times more expensive than ordinary wooden lining.
How to choose the best spotlights option?
Nevertheless, one should proceed from the characteristics of the target object. Some advantages can be expressed when installing panels in the roofing systems of large cottages, while others - in the architectural composition of summer arbors. In the first case, by the way, the properties possessed by metal soffits for a steel roof, and in the second - copper panels. This separation is due to the technical-protective and aesthetic qualities of the materials, respectively.
Methods of mounting the casing
There are three ways to install panels. Two basic ones provide that the overhang itself will occupy a strictly horizontal position. The traditional scheme is implemented by attaching spotlights to the lower rafters in a perpendicular position relative to the wall of the house. An alternative option suggests that the metal spotlights will be mounted at an angle relative to the outer wall, while repeating the position of the ramp itself. Direct fixation is carried out using profiled mounting rails, which are also made of metal. The gaps between the mounting profiles should not be higher than 1 m. Fixation is made along the entire length with a special lock.
Conclusion
Spotlights are ordinary accessories for roofing. Despite the subtle function, this element is very important for the roof. Firstly, the cladding panels provide physical protection for the interior of the roof. Secondly, metal soffits with deep perforation contribute to effective air circulation. This is important to maintain an optimal microclimate in the subroofing niche. Of course, it is not always appropriate to use metal for cladding, but in terms of the combination of technical and operational qualities, it is precisely this that is the best choice.