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If you’re building the roof trusses yourself, which isn’t recommended, it will be more affordable than buying pre-built trusses. Trusses cost more because they use the same amount of material, but you’ll also be paying for the labor, as well as the delivery to your home. However, if you’re having a contractor build the roof for you, then trusses will be less expensive, as the labor costs to build roof framing on-site will cost more.

Thatched roofs last for between 30 and 50 years in most cases, which is longer than most asphalt roofs. However, getting that life span from your thatched roof requires more maintenance than you’d need for most other materials, including fireproofing, brushing, cleaning, and rethatching as the material gets worn down. You’ll also need routine inspections to ensure you’re not at risk of leaks.

Architectural shingles typically last between 20 and 30 years. While some manufacturers provide warranties for 30 to 50 years, particularly for extreme weather, achieving such a long lifespan is uncommon. The actual life of your shingles can be shorter if you live in an area prone to strong winds, hailstorms, or other severe weather. To avoid the risk of roof failure and costly water damage from leaks, it is recommended to replace your roof before it reaches the end of its expected life. Scheduling regular roof inspections every few years is a good way to assess your roof's condition and determine the best timeline for replacement.

The proper specifications for furring strips can vary, so you should always consult the roofing manufacturer's guidelines or your roofer. However, general recommendations are as follows:

• Thickness: Furring strips are typically 1 to 1-1/2 inches thick, meaning standard 1-by or 2-by lumber works well. In areas with extreme winds, a thinner strip may be preferred to limit how much air can get under the roof and cause uplift. A thicker strip can add slightly more insulation but will also increase installation costs.

• Spacing: The recommended spacing for furring strips is between 12 and 24 inches apart on center. Proper spacing is crucial for ensuring good airflow, adequate drainage, noise reduction, and better energy efficiency. The ideal spacing can depend on the roof's pitch and the specific type of metal roofing being installed.