Replace Damaged Roof Rafters

Remove the rotted wood with a chisel and pry bar.

Replace damaged roof rafters. Be careful not to damage any nearby roof shingles or flashing. If a part of a truss has been cut out then replacing the board or piece cut out is generally not to hard or expensive. Use a reciprocating saw to chop out the rotted rafter. If a board is cracked then placing a similar board on each side of the broken one and bolting or nailing the three together may correct the issue.

Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter. Cut out the section of the roofing. Replacing rotted rafter ends on a gable roof is a matter of removing the existing ends and installing new wood. Assuming it s in good shape you can leave it in place and install the new materials around it.

While a roofing contractor would perhaps have proposed a complete tear down of the roof replacing it with straight modern size rafters the owner preferred to keep the roof sheathing in place and to straighten the roof by applying force from below while adding additional framing members. Although it is a straightforward process it is necessary to take your time to ensure a solid repair. How to replace rotted wood rafters step 1. If the entire rafter was rotten use the length.

Use your tape measure to record the. The owner had a different idea. This video shows how to repair a split rafter. Remove an area of the roof shingles from the edge of the roof to the upper line of the overhang using a 16 inch nail bar and hammer to pull the roofing nails.

If it shows signs of rotting water damage or other wear you ll need to chop it out using a reciprocating saw. Cut away rotten or damaged rafters. Use a hammer and nails to. Discard the wood in a.

The rotten wood will come away easily. Measure the length of framing wood needed with a measuring tape. Examine the condition of the rafter the thick beam running the length of the overhang. Cut a replacement piece from pressure treated lumber.

How to replace the rafters without removing the roof step 1. Step 1 place a stepladder or extension ladder under the rafter end with the most damage. With the proper tools anyone can do this. Very easy to do.