How To Install Roof Rafters

Install the roof sheathing.

How to install roof rafters.

To cut roof rafters start by fixing the stair gauges on your framing square to the dimensions of your pitch. Install the gussets on both sides of all the rafters except for the gable end rafters. Next set the framing square on top of the rafter beam and use a pencil to trace the outside edge of the framing square s tongue. The holder will keep the rafter in position now.

To do this butt the ends of the rafters together over a supporting beam. After you ve braced and installed all the rafters you re ready to start installing a layer of roof sheathing basically just plywood over which the weather stripping and shingles will be installed nailing it to the outside of the rafters accordingly. At the peak the rafters are nailed to a ridge board and at the. Test the rafter assembly by standing it up and lining it up with the edges of the shed floor.

Or join the members using manufactured metal splice plates. Depending on the shape of the roof the amount and the shape of the sheathing will vary. Then nail two pieces of 1 by or 2 by lumber of the same width as the rafters as show at left and about 18 inches long centered over both sides of the splice. Lay one end of the rafter over the outside wall frame and as you climb the ladder carry the other end of the rafter pre cut to conform to the angle of the roof or pull it up by using a rope and then set the rafter into the slot in the holder.

Attach the first rafter. Common rafters in a sloped roof common rafters run from the peak of the roof down to the top of the exterior walls of the building.