The roof structure has many components that must work together to prevent wind and rain. Roof rafters are the main structural elements that support the weight of the roof and spread the load on the walls and foundation below. When rafters start to fail, it is important to quickly fix the problem in order to prevent further damage. You can learn how to repair broken rafters.
Symptoms of a destroyed rafter
Many homeowners have no idea that they have broken rafters. If they do not regularly check their attic, the problem will not be found for a long time. But broken rafters can cause problems with the roof itself. You may have broken rafters if:
- You have sagging in your roof
- Do you have a leak going through the roof
- Do you have a tile starting to move away from the roof
Think of a rafter. This is one of several lined up together. When they are all in good shape, the roofing attached to them is direct and safe. This straight surface allows water to flow without problems.
When the rafter breaks below, it removes part of the support below the flooring. This may cause a slack in the deck. The deflection in this support layer provides an ideal place to slow down and accumulate water. This can lead to water infiltration and historically leaking. The sagging deck also moves sufficiently so that the tile attached to it can break free and begin to fall.
What can break a sling
There are several ways when rafters can break or break:
- Heavy load of snow or ice
- Man steps too hard
- Someone cuts a line
- Lack of forest
- Wood damage caused by pests
Damage assessment
How much damage does a broken rafter do to the roof? This is an important question that you need to answer before you learn how to repair broken rafters. If a broken part causes problems with the roof structure, you need to solve all the problems along with the rafter repair.
Look at the roof above the broken rafter and also the bottom of the roof attached to the rafter. If there is water penetration, you will see spots on the deck. You can find loose or missing shingles above.
If water penetration is extensive or you have some missing or missing tiles, you need to get a roofing contractor involved. Broken rafters compromised the strength of the roof, and you want a professional to put the roof back into shape.
Rafter mount
Here's how to repair broken rafters.
- Place the jack under the gap and push the rafter up until it is level with the rafters next to it.
- Cut 2x4 wood with a length of at least 1 foot longer than a broken area. You can use full-size boards for added strength.
- Using construction glue on the long side of the board, fix it on one side of the rafter with a gap in the center.
- Bring a pair of 4-inch screws in 2x4, far enough to penetrate the rafters, but do not go to the other side.
- Do the same with the other side of the rafter with the other 2x4.
- Thread all the screws to secure the three pieces of wood in one beam. Add more 6 in. Screws on each side.
You just learned how to repair broken rafters.
