Mr. Y of Tampin asked, “James how to prevent thieves from coming in from the roof if I don’t intend to build concrete ceiling at the same time to reduce heat from the roof with the cheapest and most reliable insulation material?”
Here is how you could do it if you are a cost conscious person or you don’t have the budget to do a concrete ceiling you may consider installing zinc plate on the roof below the roof tiles or asbestos.
Though it may not be as good as concrete ceiling but it does help to prevent them from coming in from the roof. Some may advise you to put steel plate instead but I find it too heavy and it is not cheap. If the roof wood structure is not strong enough it possess danger to the building, the roof may collapse.
Thieves are opportunities seekers, if they face difficulty while getting in thru the roof they might opt for the Bh next door that is easy to get in.
Though the zinc plate is not as tough as concrete but it is good enough to prevent them from entering the Bh.
After installed the zinc plate a 1-2” Styrofoam is placed on top of the ceiling board between the Zinc plate and the ceiling board below.
By doing this it could reduce heat. This is one of the most economical ways of reducing heat. I‘ve seen many Bhs that used Rockwool, bubble foils, etc I sincerely tell you none of them could come close or beat Styrofoam. In term of price Styrofoam is the cheapest. It is easy to work with and has good insulating quality.
There are many type of Styrofoam, they come in many grades. The prices are based on the quality and grades. Bear in mind not all are the same. Don’t be fooled by the prices and their thickness. The insulation quality is related to the foam density in it. The higher the density the more expensive they are. You may be surprised that the 3” thick type may not be better than a 1”, the later that is of high density.
You would regret if you opt for those that are cheap. The whole idea is to reduce heat and to make your Bh’s micro friendlier to birds. We are not here to compete who is better in cost saving.
Good Swiftlet farming All.
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