Rotted Roof Rafters

Water seeps into your roofing system in many different ways.

Rotted roof rafters.

How to replace rotted wood rafters. Use a powder actuated nailer to attach a 2x4 cleat to a brick chimney. If the dry rot is extensive enlist a contractor to replace the rotted. Things you ll need pry bar reciprocating saw circular saw 2 by pressure treated lumber 1 by pressure treated lumber wood clamps screws screwdriver primer paintbrush paint oil based primer automotive body repair putty putty knife.

If the entire rafter was rotten use the. Clamp a 1 by backing board in place and screw the new rafter to it. Discard the wood in a garbage bin as you work to. Assuming it s in good shape you can leave it in place and install the new materials around it.

Cut a replacement piece from pressure treated lumber. Things you ll need stepladder or extension ladder helper tape measure 2 by 6 inch boards salt treated circular saw speed square reciprocating saw drill with 1 2 inch bit 1 2 inch wooden dowels wood glue hammer. Since roof decking is made from wood and wood composites it is particularly susceptible to rotting and water damage when continuously exposed to sustained or excess moisture. Measure the dimensions of the old rafters beneath your roofing surface.

Use a reciprocating saw to chop out the rotted rafter. Remove the rotted wood with a chisel and pry bar. How to replace the rafters without removing the roof. Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter.

Examine the condition of the rafter the thick beam running the length of the overhang. Dry rot on the ends of gable rafters must be addressed before it spreads to the roof sheathing or rafters in the attic. Measure the length of framing wood needed with a measuring tape. The rotten wood will come away easily.

Use your tape measure to record the distance of both rafter legs.