Roof Framing Definitions

Like wall studs and floor joists rafters and trusses are spaced every 16 or 24 inches from center to center.

Roof framing definitions.

Mirrored pairs of rafters meet at a ridge and are connected across the base by a ceiling joist. Most roofs utilize 16 inch spacings for strength and rigidity. Roofs must also be strong enough to withstand high winds. Roof slope and rigidness are for shedding water and bearing any extra additional weight.

The primary object of a roof in any climate is protection from the elements. Types of roofs and define common roof framing terms. Quite common until the 1920 s the function of a roof truss is to support the purlins. More recently a roof truss means a prefabricated structural timber framework delivered to site to form part of a roof.

Stick framing combines roof rafters with ceiling joists. With wood shingles or shakes this is the thicker end. The rafters are usually positioned directly above the wall studs. Roof structure definitions support choices for sloped roofs cantilevered roofs cathedral ceiling roofs.

Parallel framing member installed horizontally to support floor and ceiling loads. In profile the framing of a conventional pitched roof forms a triangle. Some of these can support the roof and prevent ridge sagging and wall spreading. The butt of a shingle is the end that faces down roof.

Sometimes found in very large buildings where big rooms resulted in few load bearing walls. The exposed end of a shingle.