Bargeboards are a crucial part of a roof's structure, serving as the outer covering that protects the roof's edges from the elements. They are typically made of wood or plastic.
The primary function of bargeboards is to deflect wind and rain away from the roof's edges, preventing water from seeping in and causing damage. They also add a decorative touch to the roof's appearance.
Bargeboards are usually attached to the roof's rafter ends and are often shaped to match the roof's pitch. This helps to create a seamless transition between the roof and the surrounding walls.
What Is a Barge Board?
A barge board is a piece of roof decoration that's placed near the top of a gable, where the roof overhangs the wall. It's usually made from a fascia board.
The term "barge" might surprise you, but it actually comes from the Middle English word "berge", meaning a sloping roof. This is where the barge board gets its name.
In traditional architecture, barge boards were originally used to hide the ends of the rafters from view, but they've since become a decorative feature. They can be intricately carved to add character to a house.
Barge boards run diagonally up the gable and to the top of the roof, known as the ridge. They're not structurally important, unlike fascias, but they do help protect the tiles and timbers.
Barge boards are often mistaken for fascias because they're made from the same material, but they serve a different purpose.
Types of Barge Boards
Barge boards can be decorative or plain, and they're made from fascia boards.
They run from the eave, diagonally up the gable, and to the top of the roof known as the ridge.
You can buy bargeboards, which is sometimes referred to as running trim or gable trim.
Removing rotten bargeboard from a house won't harm the structural integrity of the roof, but it will change the appearance of your home.
Victorian
Removing rotten bargeboard from a Victorian house can be done without harming the structural integrity of the roof, as it's an ornamental piece.
You don't have to replace it with the same style if you don't want to, but be aware that you'll need to check with your local historic commission first.
If you do decide to replace it, you can buy bargeboards, which are sometimes called running trim or gable trim today.
Turning Vanes
Turning vanes are smaller structures located between the front wheels and the monocoque, used in addition to or in place of full bargeboards.
They're often situated further forward than bargeboards and have a different purpose, which is to help with airflow and aerodynamics.
Initially, turning vanes were relatively simple in design, but through the 2000s, they became more complex and integrated with other structures like the floor and suspension mounts.
This integration allows for more efficient airflow and improved handling, which is a key factor in a car's overall performance.
Dictionary Definitions
A bargeboard is a board placed in advance of a gable and underneath the barge-course, where the roof extends over the wall. This is according to The Century Dictionary.
In architecture, bargeboards are used to cover the rafter that would otherwise be visible, or occupy its place.
Bargeboards are often ornately carved boards, attached along the projecting edge of a pitched roof in front of a gable. This definition comes from The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition.
Function and Design
Bargeboards play a crucial role in smoothing and redirecting turbulent air in the wake of the front wing. They help to separate different components of this mixture of flows and direct them either outside and around the sidepods or towards the radiator inlets.
Their primary function is to act as flow conditioners, which means they work to reduce turbulence and create a more stable airflow around the car. By doing so, they can improve the car's overall aerodynamics.
Bargeboards are designed to direct turbulent wakes away from downstream aerodynamic surfaces, which can help reduce wake drag created by the wheel profile.
Purpose
The purpose of a well-designed function is to serve a specific goal. This goal is often determined by the user's needs and expectations.
In the context of design, purpose is closely tied to the user's experience. A function that is easy to use and intuitive is more likely to meet the user's needs and achieve its intended purpose.
A good example of this is the design of a user interface, where the purpose is to provide a clear and concise way for users to interact with a system. The design of the interface should be guided by the user's needs and expectations, and should prioritize clarity and simplicity.
Function and design are closely intertwined, and a well-designed function is one that is easy to use and effective in achieving its purpose.
Function
Bargeboards play a crucial role in smoothing and redirecting turbulent air in the wake of the front wing and front wheels.
They act as flow conditioners, separating different components of the mixture of flows and directing them either outside and around the sidepods or towards the radiator inlets.
By directing turbulent wakes away from downstream aerodynamic surfaces, bargeboards reduce the drag created by the wheel profile behind the front wheels.
This configuration can have significant implications for cooling, as the flow directed towards the radiator inlets can affect the efficiency of the cooling system.
Vortex Generators
Vortex Generators play a crucial role in the design of bargeboards, redirecting and energizing airflow to improve overall performance.
The upper, downward sloping edge of a bargeboard can shed a large vortex downstream around the sidepods.
This vortex can interact favorably with flip-ups, helping to seal the low pressure underbody flow from the ambient stream.
The bottom edge of a bargeboard can also shed vortices that energize the airflow to the underbody.
These energized vortices can help delay flow separation and allow the use of more aggressive diffuser profiles.
In recent years, the two edges of bargeboards have acquired relatively large serrations or protruding tabs to enhance their performance as vortex generators.
Dry Verge / Flashings
A dry verge is a crucial feature in protecting exposed tiles above the barge board. Made of plastic, it clips together and runs in line with the tiles, providing a modern alternative to lead flashings.
This design helps to keep water out and prevents damage to the tiles and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a bargeboard and a fascia board?
Bargeboards run at an angle in the gable, while fascia boards are horizontal along the eave. This difference in orientation affects their installation and purpose in a building's exterior.
What is a synonym for bargeboard?
A synonym for bargeboard is vergeboard. It's a decorative element often found on sloping roofs.
What is the difference between a verge and a barge board?
A verge refers to the end or edge of a thing, while a barge board is a type of exterior house trim that hides the ends of rafters. In other words, a verge is a general term, while barge board is a specific architectural feature.
Sources
- https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-a-bargeboard-vergeboard-177500
- https://www.wordnik.com/words/bargeboard
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bargeboard_(aerodynamics)
- https://www.gutterandcladding.co.uk/news/understanding-your-roof-roof-glossary
- https://www.cogoport.com/en-IN/knowledge-center/resources/shipping-terms/barge-169
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