In a stick frame non truss sloped roof these issues usually cause the roof ridge to sag in the middle giving it a swayback look but can also cause one side of the roof to sag.
Roof rafer construction wall sag.
Rafters are nailed to the plate.
Some roof framing designs include the use of a strut or beam that runs perpendicular across the bottom of the rafters inside the attic.
This article describes a diy repair project using a site built spreader to straighten sagged roof rafters and decking.
Some roofs sag because of decay to the inside beams and sheathing.
Rafter ties rafter ties on gable type roofs are usually horizontal wood pieces often 2 4 s or 2 6 s that help keep the exterior wall tops from spreading outwardly.
When considering what to do about sags in a roof start by noticing if the sag is in sheathing between rafters page top photo0 or sagging along the length of the rafters.
Check for damage to rafter ties as well as their connection to the exterior walls.
They are inclined members spaced from 16 to 48 inches apart.
Decay can occur over time due to a number of reasons including leaks in the roof or leaks from guttering or downpipes wet rot or even insect attacks such as termites damaging the ends of the bearings.
Without the proper support of rafter ties or a structural ridge a typical gable or sloped roof will sag downwards while pushing the building walls outwards towards a catastrophe.
They vary in size depending on length and spacing.
Normally in the bottom third area of the rafters or sitting on the exterior wall top plate.
Sagging rafters can lead to serious problems with the entire roofing system.
Often the framing can be bolstered and beefed up internally but if the roofing material needs replacement anyway it may be best to tear off the old sheathing and install larger rafters while the roof.
It is always better to have a large rafter rather than be concerned with a sagging roof.
The tops of inclined rafters are fastened to the ridge or another rafter depending on the type of roof.
If your project had a rafter length of 8 or less a safe and strong method is to use 2x8 framed 16 on center.
Rafters rafters make up the main framework of all roofs.
Roof rafter decking sagging.
Rafters rest on the top wall plate.
If you notice that there is a visible dip in your roof chances are you have a problem with one or several rafters and you may soon be facing more issues like water leaks bowed out walls or your roof caving in on you.