To paper or not to paper??

[azuczek]

We had our first framing walk through with our builder. It was not a very comfortable experience.....but a totally different story. I asked the builder why they were not putting tar paper down on the roof. They claim that it is not necessary on roofs that are greater than 7:12 pitch. But from what I read, the first 42" of ANY slope requires paper for eavestrough protection. Can you clear this up for me...when is tar paper required?


Thank you

[GregS]

I know a lot of new houses here in Ontario are having issues with ice dams. Essentially the ice blocks the eves and the water run off backs up between the shingles and the roof plywood.

I am not sure what the code requirements are there, but if your local municipal building department should have the info that you need.

[Charlie Farley]

Im English and am reading through the Can building codes and it is vague to say the least but if the tar paper is required then demand it as it will cost an arm and a leg to put right if they are wrong (as I suspect they are).

Builders build and buyers buy from them so tell them that. This is commonly a case of the tail wagging the dog. If someone doesnt make a significant stand on all petty issues such as this then the quality of building will never ascend. Tar paper is couple of bucks a roll plus installation so tell them to put it up and watch them do it too. Dont be bullied. You're the buyer as in they need you more than you need them.

The Canadian (and US) building codes are a minimum requirement and when I get there they will be a guide cos we have far higher standards which are going to apply. The eaves course of paper will be two fold minimum and all pins will be aluminium with a breather membrane sub shingle as standard.

You got to believe how tough fixing roofs are when they go wrong so it is logical to make them as good as can be achieved at the construction phase