What comes to mind when you think about a roof? Do you picture the different elements? Today, we’ll talk about one of the most important parts that make up the roofing system: the rafter.
What is it?
A rafter is a vertical beam, usually with a slope, that supports a building’s roof; any building with a roof likely has rafters. Resting on a supporting wall, the weight of the roof is transferred through the rafter down to the building’s foundation. They are usually made of wood, but depending on the building’s architecture can also be made from concrete or steel. Source: DoItYourself
Different kinds of rafters
– Principal rafter: Usually the largest type of rafter located at the ends of a roof structure.
– Common rafter: Smaller rafters located in between the principals at both ends.
– Auxiliary rafter: Less common but can be used to support and reinforce a principal rafter.
– Compass rafter: Curved or bowed at the top or at both the top and bottom surfaces.
– Curb rafter: The upper rafters in a gambrel or Mansard roof.
– Hip rafter: Smaller rafters used for the corners of a hip roof.
– King rafter: On the side of a hip roof, a king rafter is the longest and is in line with the ridge.
– Valley rafter: The main rafter that is found at the lowest point of a valley roof.
– Jack rafter: A rafter that is shortened by landing on a hip rafter or being interrupted by a dormer window.
– Barge rafter: On a gable end this is the outermost rafter and is sometimes used to form a roof overhang. Source: DesigningBuildings
Use it when:
– You want to maximize living space within the home’s structure.
– A steeply vaulted ceiling is preferred.
– The building site cannot be reached by an affordable method of transportation for trusses. Source: RoofingCalc
Need help with any roof-related concerns? We’ll be more than happy to be of service! Give us a call anytime.
Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains Ltd.
168 W 71st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 4S7
(604) 360-2114
