How To Replace A Rotted Roof Rafter

Cut a replacement piece from pressure treated lumber.

How to replace a rotted roof rafter.

Measure the dimensions of the old rafters beneath your roofing surface. Assuming it s in good shape you can leave it in place and install the new materials around it. Cut out the section of the roofing. Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter.

If you are using an extension. Measure from the end of the rafter tail to the area of good wood with a tape measure. If the entire rafter was rotten use the length. Screw a new section of rafter to the old one to reinforce the tail.

Use a reciprocating saw to chop out the rotted rafter. How to replace rotted wood rafters step 1. 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. Cut a piece of 1 by pressure treated lumber that is longer than the replacement board by 4 to 6 inches.

How to replace the rafters without removing the roof step 1. Place a stepladder or extension ladder under the rafter end with the most damage. Measure the length of framing wood needed with a measuring tape. When measuring extend the.

Install new 2x4 lookouts to replace rotted ones or screw a new one to the old one if it s mostly sound. Use a hammer and nails to. Use your tape measure to record the. Note that a squirrel had built a large nest above the soffit shown here.

The rotten wood will come away easily. Be careful not to damage any nearby roof shingles or flashing. Examine the condition of the rafter the thick beam running the length of the overhang. Cut off the rotted rafter tail with a reciprocating saw.

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. Discard the wood in a. Pull down to remove the old soffit. If it shows signs of rotting water damage or other wear you ll need to chop it out using a reciprocating saw.

Replace rotted lookouts so you have a good nailing surface for your new soffit boards photo 7. Cut away rotten or damaged rafters.