Wood Rafter

Definition

A Wood Rafter is a sloping wood framing member of a roof immediately beneath the sheathing.

Purpose

The purpose of a wood rafter is to support the roof structure, bearing the load of the roof covering and transferring it to the walls or other supporting structures.

Examples of Use

• Residential Roofs: Forming the framework for pitched roofs in homes.
• Barns and Sheds: Providing support for sloped roofs in agricultural buildings.
• Pergolas: Serving as the main structural elements for open-roof outdoor structures.

Related Terms

• Joist: Horizontal framing members used to support floors or ceilings.
• Truss: A framework of beams forming a rigid structure.
• Sheathing: The layer of boards or panels applied to the roof rafters to support the roofing material.

Notes

Wood rafters must be properly sized and spaced according to building codes to handle the expected loads. They should be made from strong, durable wood species and properly installed to ensure roof stability.