Replace Damaged Roof Rafters

Measure the dimensions of the old rafters beneath your roofing surface.

Replace damaged roof rafters.

Replacing rotted rafter ends on a gable roof is a matter of removing the existing ends and installing new wood. The owner had a different idea. Pull down to remove the old soffit. Use a reciprocating saw to chop out the rotted rafter.

Cut out the section of the roofing. Note that a squirrel had built a large nest above the soffit shown here. Assuming it s in good shape you can leave it in place and install the new materials around it. Examine the condition of the rafter the thick beam running the length of the overhang.

Use your tape measure to record the. This video shows how to repair a split rafter. Very easy to do. If it shows signs of rotting water damage or other wear you ll need to chop it out using a reciprocating saw.

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. Remove the rotted wood with a chisel and pry bar. How to replace the rafters without removing the roof step 1. The rotten wood will come away easily.

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. 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. Discard the wood in a.

With the proper tools anyone can do this. Be careful not to damage any nearby roof shingles or flashing. 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. Cut a replacement piece from pressure treated lumber.

Use a hammer and nails to. Step 1 place a stepladder or extension ladder under the rafter end with the most damage. How to replace rotted wood rafters step 1. Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter.