What’s the ideal height for a roof to prevent rain damage to structures?

In Valheim, rain can cause significant damage to wooden structures over time, leading to decay and weakening your base. To prevent this, you must ensure your structures are properly covered by a roof. The ideal height for a roof depends on the size of your building and the materials you use, but there are general guidelines to follow.\n\nFirst, understand the game mechanics: rain damage occurs when wooden structures are exposed to the open sky. This includes walls, floors, and support beams. Roofs act as a protective layer, shielding these structures from decay. However, the roof must be placed at the correct height and angle to fully cover the area below. A roof that is too low or improperly angled will leave gaps, allowing rain to damage your build.\n\nFor small to medium-sized structures, a roof height of 2-3 meters (measured from the floor) is usually sufficient. This height allows for proper coverage without making the building feel cramped. To achieve this, start by placing a 2-meter wooden wall as the base height for your walls. Then, add a 26-degree or 45-degree thatch roof piece on top. These roof pieces are the most common and provide adequate coverage for most builds.\n\nFor larger structures, such as longhouses or multi-story buildings, you may need to increase the roof height to 4-5 meters. This ensures the roof extends far enough to cover the entire area below. Use core wood beams or ironwood supports to reinforce the roof structure, as larger roofs require stronger materials to prevent collapse. Additionally, consider using multiple roof pieces overlapping slightly to eliminate gaps where rain could seep through.\n\nOne common challenge is ensuring the roof fully covers corners and edges. To address this, use corner roof pieces or extend the roof slightly beyond the walls. For example, if your building is 4x4 meters, extend the roof to 5x5 meters to ensure complete coverage. This technique is especially useful in biomes like the Meadows or Black Forest, where rain is frequent.\n\nAnother practical tip is to use stone or other non-wooden materials for the base of your structure. Stone is immune to rain damage, so combining it with wooden walls and roofs can reduce maintenance. For example, build a stone foundation and add wooden walls and a roof on top. This hybrid approach is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.\n\nFinally, always test your roof placement by waiting for rain or using the hammer''s repair mode to check for decay. If you notice any exposed areas, adjust the roof height or add additional pieces. With these steps, you can create a sturdy, rainproof base that withstands the elements and keeps your Viking home safe.\n\nIn summary, the ideal roof height depends on your structure''s size, but 2-3 meters is a good starting point for most builds. Use overlapping roof pieces, extend beyond walls, and reinforce with stronger materials for larger structures. Combine stone and wood for added durability, and always test your design to ensure full coverage. By following these tips, you can protect your base from rain damage and focus on thriving in Valheim.