Laying UNIPUR panels

UNIPUR Panels are laid following the roof slope, directly onto the purlins.

The purlins should be firmly fixed in the walls and/or on the supporting trusses so they are not dislodged dureing installation of the UNIPUR panels.

Asymmetrical panels (eg, UNIPUR T&G, UNIPUR CB) must be laid from left to right. Symmetrical panels (eg, UNIPUR PB) can be laid either way.

We advise the use of a crane clamp for speed and safety

 

Mechanical fixing

Typical fixing details are listed below, for more specific information please contact the supplier.

Timber structure

UNIPUR panels are fixed using a combination of galvanised helically screwed nails and screwbolts with clamping plates.

Helically screwed nails

  • At ridge and intermediate beams:
    UNIPUR panels with 3 rafters, 81 0 or 820mm wide (detail la) are fixed with one helically screwed nail on all rafters.

    A 1210mm UNIPUR panel with 4 rafters

    (detail 1 b) is fixed with one helically screwed nail per rafter at every purlin intersection.
     
  • At wall plate level:
    Additional fixings at wall plate with 2 helically screwed nails on the central rafters and one on the outside rafters (detail 2).

Screwbolts with clamping plates

  • At every junction of two panels and on the supporting purlin or wall plate (optional but please consult supplier for more information).

Metal structure

Fix using self-drilling screws.

  1. All fixing holes should be pre-drilled
  2. Screwbolts with clamping plates
    at junction of 2 panels
    (bolted between the rafters)
  3. UNIPUR panels are nailed in place

 

External junctions

Longitudinal junctions
To maintain good thermal insulation, and to create a watertight and airtight structure, the longitudinal junctions must be sealed by spraying polyurethane foam into the joint (see detail 3).

Cross junction - for long roof slope only
At cross junctions, the end of the UNIPUR panels must always be fixed on a purlin. The bearing length should be minimum 30mm.

A gap should be left between the panels to allow for the spray can nozzle (Ø=5mm).

These junctions must be carefully sealed to keep water out, by firstly injecting polyurethane foam and then applying a bead of bitumen sealant (see detail 4).

Specific points

Detailing around gutter, edge, ridge, chimney stack and rooflights must be carried out with care.

Ensure that any trapped water is drained away.

Overhanging gutter detail

A gap should be formed between the UNIPUR panels and the fascia board to permit ventilation and release of trapped water (see detail 5), except when a vapour permeable membrane is used.

The underside of the overhanging pane should be protected against the elements.

 

Important considerations

Water, wind and air leakage

Carefully seal all junctions between panels, and between panels and other elements (chimney stack, gutter, walls, abutting buildings, etc).

Vermin and ventilation

Always provide ventilation in accordance with Building Regulations requirements. Appropriate measures should be taken to avoid ingress of insects, etc.

Mould formation

To avoid mould formation on wood facing (ie, ply wood or T&G), it is advisable to keep the building well ventilated and/or to apply the finishing promptly.