Replacing Rotten Roof Timbers

The joist plate is bolted to the timber making the joint b as strong as the original joist.

Replacing rotten roof timbers.

The length also reduces the fulcrum effect so there shouldn t be any great stresses applied to the existing timber. In other areas the rotten timbers should be removed and replaced. Wood beams are used to support a bearing load from a roof or second floor. You can mold and shape it to match the original wood profile.

A new piece of timber is cut a to replace the damaged piece and the joists plates are positioned ether side of the joists with the end of the joist plate right up against the edge of the timber so it is the joist plate that site on the bearer a. Use a polyester filler to rebuild rotted or damaged wood. Wood rotting from the inside out compromises the structural integrity of the rafter. Some companies will even supply pre shaped repair pieces with the rods already bonded in place ready to fix to the prepared end of a failed timber.

This project requires two parts. If wet rot occurs in structural timbers such as roof trusses floor joists expert advice should be sought as the implication for structural integrity must be established. The rotten timber should be removed first and the end of the joist treating to discourage any further rot. The basics of the process are as follows.

A combination of replacing rotten or failed timber with new timber and strengthening with resin bonded steel or carbon fibre rods can be adopted to good effect in many situations. First remove the rotten wood and then replace it with new rafters. If not climb the roof and measure the opening so you can cut the replacement piece to be a perfect fit. It takes paint well and won t rot.

Not only is this faster but the fixed wood is stronger than the original. If you were able to keep the removed section in one piece measure it. Replace the roof decking select plywood or oriented strand board that is the same thickness as the wood you are replacing. Inspect and assess the damaged section of timber and determine where it needs to be cut to prop the timber along it s length using suitably sturdy props such as acro props once supported cut off the damaged end leaving only solid un damaged timber now.

When repair is no longer an option the roof rafters must be replaced. If the damaged area is fairly small it can be cut away and a new piece of timber joined to that remaining. Replacing a dry rotted beam is not a difficult task if you follow the tried and true methods listed below.