What Is a Timber Upstand?

If you’ve come across the term “timber upstand” while planning a building or renovation project, you might be wondering what it actually means and why it’s important. In this blog, we’ll talk you through what a timber upstand is and what it’s used for.

How Does a Timber Upstand Work?

A timber upstand is essentially a vertical raised frame made from wood that sits on top of a flat or horizontal roof surface. Builders commonly install it around the perimeter of features such as flat roof lights or a frameless roof light. Rather than being a decorative feature, it serves multiple purposes, playing a crucial role in lifting certain elements above the finished roof surface and helping to manage how water interacts with the structure.

In simple terms, it acts like a small kerb or barrier. While it may only rise a short distance, that minimum upstand height is crucial in preventing water ingress, avoiding standing water or water pooling, and allowing other materials to install correctly. A properly constructed upstand ensures proper drainage and helps prevent water reaching vulnerable areas.

Where

Timber Upstands Used?

Builders most often associate timber upstands with flat roofing systems, particularly on low pitched roofs. Flat roofs require careful detailing to ensure water drains effectively and does not penetrate the structure. In this setting, installers typically place an upstand around the edges of the roof or around any openings, such as those for roof light installation or other glazed features.

It provides a raised frame that helps keep water out and allows waterproofing membranes to turn up vertically for a properly sealed, weatherproof finish. This helps prevent leaks and protects the roof structure from long-term damage.

The upstand forms the base that the installed roof light sits on, ensuring it sits slightly elevated above the finished roof level. This not only improves waterproofing and thermal performance but also provides a stable, level base for installation and ensures structural support.

Why Are Timber Upstands Important?

Although they might seem like a small detail, timber upstands make a big difference to the overall performance of a building. One of their main functions is to support effective waterproofing and prevent water ingress. Water tends to find its way into joints and weak points, particularly where horizontal and vertical surfaces meet.

By introducing a well built upstand, the structure can properly seal. This reduces the risk of leaks and heat loss.

How Are Timber Upstands Constructed?

Timber upstands typically use treated timber and other durable materials. This ensures stability and structural integrity. The height of the upstand can vary depending on the project. Building regulations often specify a minimum upstand height to ensure compliance.

Once installed on site, the upstand integrates with the rest of the roofing system. For example, on a flat roof, installers lay a waterproof membrane across the roof surface and then turn it up along the face of the upstand. This creates a continuous, weatherproof barrier that helps prevent water ingress and ensures proper drainage.

Timber Upstands and Building Regulations

Meeting building regulations is essential when installing roof glazing products. Incorrectly sized or poorly installed upstands can lead to non compliance, as well as practical problems such as leaks, reduced durability, or compromised structural stability.

For this reason, it is always important to ensure compliance from the outset. A properly constructed upstand that meets the required standards will help ensure stability, proper drainage, and long-term performance.

Choosing the Right Timber Upstand

At UK Rooflights Online, we understand that getting the details right can be one of the most challenging parts of a project. That’s why we offer our own upstand solutions, designed to work seamlessly with all our roof lanterns and flat rooflights.

Available as an optional extra, our timber upstand products meet building regulations. Whether you’re working with larger roof lanterns or smaller roof light designs, our expert team constructs each upstand carefully. To find out more, drop us an email on info@ukrooflights.co.uk.