Replacing Rotted Roof Rafters

Install new 2x4 lookouts to replace rotted ones or screw a new one to the old one if it s mostly sound.

Replacing rotted roof rafters.

Measure from the end of the rafter tail to the area of good wood with a tape measure. How to replace the rafters without removing the roof. Use a powder actuated nailer to attach a 2x4 cleat to a brick chimney. Cut a piece of 1 by pressure treated lumber that is longer than the replacement board by 4 to 6 inches.

Use your tape measure to record the distance of both rafter legs. How to replace rotted wood rafters step 1. When measuring extend the. Remove weak spongy wood preserve and protect wood wi.

Discard the wood in a. The cleat helps support the new overhang. Measure the dimensions of the old rafters beneath your roofing surface. Make the new section twice as long as the rafter tail.

If you are using an extension. Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter. Measure the length of framing wood needed with a measuring tape. Screw a new section of rafter to the old one to reinforce the tail.

If the entire rafter was rotten use the length. Use a reciprocating saw to chop out the rotted rafter. The rotten wood will come away easily. Replace rotted lookouts so you have a good nailing surface for your new soffit boards photo 7.

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. Make sure you also pick up enough pressure treated lumber to cut new shingle molds and rafters if necessary. Dry rot on the ends of gable rafters must be addressed before it spreads to the roof sheathing or rafters in the attic. Remove the rotted wood with a chisel and pry bar.

If the dry rot is extensive enlist a contractor to replace the rotted. This video shows from start to finish the repair of rotted endbeams on a house using the endrot system. In addition to wood you also have the option of choosing a material like cellular pvc fiber cement aluminum or. Cut a replacement piece from pressure treated lumber.

Place a stepladder or extension ladder under the rafter end with the most damage.