Sunroom glass installation design

Earlier I talked about designing the sunroom with Sketchup software. I plan to span the 2×6 rafter 24 on center and the rafter are approximately 111 3/4 inches long. There will have to be blocking put in place, one for sure, possible 2 per rafter, to prevent the rafters from warping in the sunshine.

I was talking with Kelly Obsorne of www.metalsrus.ca, who are a local metal supplier. She provided me with another local company, www.alumicor.com, who could probably help me out in sourcing F-channel and J-channel.

I got a hold of the local branch office of the Alumicor company (in Halifax, Nova Scotia) and had a conversation with David Pettipas who was gracious enough to listen to my explantion of what I am looking for. He thought a T-track might be the thing I need and sent me this picture of a product they carry.

I then sent him a sketchup diagram which provided him with a clearer idea of what I was planning to do. He then sent this drawing, mentioning the following; “Most of our extrusions are set up for 1 inch glazing, but in looking at what you are doing, you should just perhaps router a shoulder around each opening approx 3/8 inch deep, apply 1/8 inch shim tape and perhaps just use the cap section of the detail I sent you to cover the exterior with countersunk stainless screws. You also need to use the shim tape on the exterior. Here is a sketch back, rough as well.”

The material to use for the glass roof itself is still open for debate. I’ve had a conversation with Lorne Teasdale at the local glass shop, T-Mac Signs and Designs in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. The roof is located where there is a valley in the roof and that roof faces the north side. It doesn’t see much sun in the winter so there is very little evidence of ice build and icicles. Acrylic material will not be used because it yellows over time. Lexan could be used but I’m pretty sure it scratches and turns a little bit opaque over time. Safety glass would be a good choice, but more expensive.

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