CraigM,

Why - Elevate the Antenna Element 3-5 Feet Above the Roof ?
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Shortw...a/message/9443

Just basic practical experience on my part and
what I have read and been told over the years.

FWIW - Elevating the Antenna Element 3-5 Feet 'above' the
Roof may not always work in providing a Stronger Signal and
Less Noise in all situations - but often it does.

In general this statement applies to any Antenna Element
around a House or Building or their Roof Line and Attic.

Where 'possible' get the Antenna Element :
* Off-the-Surface
* Away-from-the-Surface
* Out-and-Up-in-the-Air
A few Feet of Space {Distance} Does Matter

The Why - It just may result from the simple fact that as
the Distance {Space} from a Source-of-Noise Increases
the Signal Level of the Noise Decreases.

So 'if' there is some Wiring or Equipment (Source-of-Noise)
in the Attic Area : The Surface of the Roof would be closer
and the Noise Stronger then if it were detected another 3-5
Feet away (Up Higher in the Air).

Note - This 'assumes' a non-metal Roof Surface that may act
as a Shield for any Noise emanating from the Attic of House.

It goes without saying that 'if' there is Electrical Equipment
on the Roof like Swamp-Coolers or Air-Conditioners then it
is always a good idea (were practical) to place the Antenna
Element away from such potential Sources-of-Noise.

In Conclusion - It remains my recommendation that "Elevating"
the Antenna Element 3-5 Feet 'above' the Surface of the Roof
is the better place for it to be for a Cleaner RF Signal and
Reduced Noise from the interior of the House.

as always - iane ~ RHF