Roof Rafter Repair

When considering what to do about sags in a roof start by noticing if the sag is in sheathing between rafters page top photo0 or sagging along the length of the rafters.

Roof rafter repair.

If you see a rotted rafter you should take steps to identify the source of moisture that is causing the decay. This article describes a diy repair project using a site built spreader to straighten sagged roof rafters and decking. Obviously this is not a good situation as it can cause the entire roof to fail if not addressed. A cracked roof rafter can create a sagging and unsightly roof.

Use your tape measure to record the distance of both rafter legs. Unless you have advanced carpentry skills you may not be able to fix a rafter with serious decay problems. Repeat the process for the joist beneath your old roof rafter. Fortunately repairing rotten or weathered eaves is a relatively simple project that you can do yourself without ever having to climb onto your roof.

Although the rafter must be replaced if it is completely broken smaller areas of damage can be repaired through the application of a scab board. Before you can purchase the l channel you need to know the size of the rafter. This board is a section of lumber that is the same thickness as the rafter and 2 feet longer on each side of the damaged section. Rafters can also be damaged by a blow to the roof from falling branches.

Step 1 measure the damaged rafter. Roof rafter decking sagging. Start by prying away the bottom and sides of the old eaves and cutting new materials to match. A cracked or damaged rafter due to a defect in the wood or an impact from an outside force may be able to be repaired preventing a very costly roofing repair.

This includes repairing any leaks in the roof above the rafter. A cracked roof rafter needs to be repaired and can be done byf an experienced do it yourselfer. Repairing this is called scabbing. An l channel that is 1 by 1 and at least 2 feet long should be adequate for most rafters.

Regardless of the cause a split rafter must be repaired to ensure the integrity of the roof s support system. Apply a resilient weatherproof coating to the new pieces then secure them using stainless steel nails. It may also include replacing roof sheathing. Use a circular saw to cut two sets of new rafters from the same size wood by the same dimensions.