Replacing Rotted Roof Rafters

Cut off the rotted rafter tail with a reciprocating saw.

Replacing rotted roof rafters.

Screw a new section of rafter to the old one to reinforce the tail. Dry rot on the ends of gable rafters must be addressed before it spreads to the roof sheathing or rafters in the attic. The rotten wood will come away easily. In addition to wood you also have the option of choosing a material like cellular pvc fiber cement aluminum or.

Measure the dimensions of the old rafters beneath your roofing surface. Use your tape measure to record the distance of both rafter legs. Remove the rotted wood with a chisel and pry bar. Place a stepladder or extension ladder under the rafter end with the most damage.

Clamp a 1 by backing board in place and screw the new rafter to it. Make the new section twice as long as the rafter tail. Measure from the end of the rafter tail to the area of good wood with a tape measure. The cleat helps support the new overhang.

When measuring extend the. Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter. How to replace the rafters without removing the roof. If you are using an extension.

Cut a replacement piece from pressure treated lumber. Make sure you also pick up enough pressure treated lumber to cut new shingle molds and rafters if necessary. Remove weak spongy wood preserve and protect wood wi. How to replace rotted wood rafters step 1.

If the dry rot is extensive enlist a contractor to replace the rotted. Cut a replacement board from 2 by pressure treated lumber that is the same size and width as the rafter tail you just cut using a circular saw. How to replace rotted rafter ends on a gable roof step 1. Discard the wood in a.

Install new 2x4 lookouts to replace rotted ones or screw a new one to the old one if it s mostly sound. Use a reciprocating saw to chop out the rotted rafter. Cut a piece of 1 by pressure treated lumber that is longer than the replacement board by 4 to 6 inches. Use a powder actuated nailer to attach a 2x4 cleat to a brick chimney.

Measure the length of framing wood needed with a measuring tape.