Roof Structures and Door Components Explained

Roof Structures and Drainage

Apex or Summit Components

Made apex or summit: Components composed of multiple angles joined together.

Pitched Roof Structure

The structure is maintained by an armor called triangular truss girders, made up of linked elements. Beams can be wood, steel, or reinforced concrete.

Roof Outflow Systems

Flat Roofs

They are not totally flat but have a slight slope to provide drainage for the sink (the hole that collects rainwater). A protected sink uses a fence to prevent the hole from becoming clogged as stormwater drains away.

Skewed Roofs

Water flows down via a channel (metallic, ceramic, or plastic material) until it reaches the aiguavessos (gutters) that collect rainwater and lead it downhill.

Openings: Doors and Windows

Openings are doors and windows that serve as entry and exit points for an enclosed area. They also allow natural light penetration and ventilation (air renewal for the dwelling).

Door Anatomy

A door is an empty space on the wall, extending from the floor up to a certain height (minimum 2.10m). Its function is access and exit from the house. Materials include wood, iron, aluminum, glass, PVC, or thin steel plate.

Parts of a Door

• Threshold: A horizontal piece placed at the bottom of the door opening, resting on the jambs. Materials include wood, concrete, and steel. It bears the weight transmitted by the jambs.
• Jambs: The vertical wall sections on the sides of the opening that support the lintel (llinda) and transmit the force.
• Framework or Scaffolding: The part that fixes the hinges or guides that allow the door leaf to swing or move. This includes the horizontal piece (testera) and the vertical Muntaner.
• Banyots (Jamb Linings): Connect the frame to the wall, protruding slightly from the wall surface.
• Hinges or Guides: Attached to the framework, they serve to hold the door leaf.
• Sheet or Swing (Door Leaf): The mobile part of the door that opens and closes (where the lock is fitted).
  • Interior: Usually not solid; minimum width is 60 cm (wood or glass).
  • Exterior: Provide access to the dwelling; must be solid for security (minimum 80 cm).

Types of Doors

Door Types:

• Hinged: The leaf is attached by one or two hinges to the frame and can swing.
• Estilans (Casement): One or two leaves that open or close inwards or outwards.
• Folded (Bi-fold): Articulated parts that fold up like an accordion.
• Enrollables (Rolling/Roller): Moves along horizontal tracks.
• Corradisses (Sliding): Moves along a guide located on the lintel.
• Swivel (Revolving): Composed of four sheets forming a cross, linked by a central axis.
• Vesculants (Pivoting): The leaf revolves around a horizontal axis.