What is a bargeboard?
A bargeboard, also called a vergeboard, is a finishing board along the sloping edge of a tiled or thatched roof at the gable end. It covers the edge of the tiles or thatch. In Dutch it is called a windveer.
What does a bargeboard do?
- Weather protection: it stops rain, snow and wind from getting under the tiles or thatch at the roof edge.
- Wind uplift: side winds catch the outer row of tiles. The bargeboard keeps that edge closed so tiles are less likely to lift.
- Appearance: bargeboards give the roof a neat edge and were often decorated with carving.
Construction
Traditionally the bargeboard sits against the outer row of tiles. Older houses often have a small weatherboard on top to stop water running between the tiles and the board. Today a dry verge system or verge tile is often used instead, and aluminium profiles also exist.
Maintenance and replacement tips
- Check the underside and ends: moisture lingers there and rot usually starts there.
- Check the joint with the tiles: a gap lets water and wind in.
- Use durable or well-treated timber and paint every side, including end grain, before fitting.
- Fix with stainless screws in pre-drilled holes so the timber does not split.
- Use scaffolding when working at the roof edge, not a ladder.
Related terms
- Fascia
- Verge
- Weatherboard
- Wind bracing
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.