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Extensions

Rafters attached as butt joints to timber wall plate, is this okay?

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.20 PM

On the old extension we had new french doors installed, so replaced rotten lintel at the same time with RSJ. However, before we re-tile the roof and fix new soffit/fascias I want to ensure the structure is solid. Currently the rafters are attached to a timber wall plate (100x50) at an angle as a butt joint. This wall plate simply rests along the top of the RSJ. The roof is a relatively small mono pitch. Please correct me if I am wrong, should the rafter's butt joints be secured with some kind of metal straps. And the wall plate itself, what is the best way to secure this to the RSJ?

Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?

1 Answer

lakeside construction southern limited

Rating: 5 out of 5

Christchurch

Hi. Your ceiling joists will triangulate your roof & stop any spread. If it's been there a while, the rafters are usually nailed into the wall plate as a side fixing & is enough to stop any movement. However if you're unsure, you can buy short tailed joist hangers which are a couple of quid each to help with the support & also make sure the existing plates are fixed well with sleeve anchors or concrete screws. You can beef up the structure for not very much money if you want some peace of mind. Hope that helps, Simon.

Answered11 February 2019