Attic Framing Terms

Includes illustrations that show roofs have hip rafters ridge boards jack rafters and more.

Attic framing terms.

Roof framing involves a lexicon all its own. These requirements cover the design and construction of roof ceiling systems including roof framing roof drainage roof sheathing ceiling finishes roof ventilation and attic access. Ironically though it s the rafters that provide a better environment for an attic conversion because of the clear space. On any wall panel or framing piece the beams that run horizontal at the very top and bottom of the frame are called plates.

This article describes and illustrates the different types of support that prevents roof sagging and wall bulging at buildings including definitions of collar ties rafter ties and structural ridge beams. However green building uses a single top plate and ensures that rafters and ceiling joists sit on the plate directly over the studs. Here is a closer look at common roofing terms. When repairing or replacing a roof it pays to be familiar with these terms.

Top plate or plates in conventional western platform framing there are two top plates. Buildings with combustible ceiling or roof construction shall have an attic access opening to attic areas that have a vertical height of 30 inches 762 mm or greater over an area of not less than 30 square feet 2 8 m 2 the vertical height shall be measured from the top of the ceiling framing members to the underside of the roof framing members. At the top of a wall panel you have a top plate and at the bottom you ll have a bottom plate. This is to help prevent deflection and sag in the roof.

Sway bracing there are a few ways to sway brace the wall. Some of these can support the roof and prevent ridge sagging and wall spreading. Back to alphabetical list hip roof. Boards or plywood installed over joists on which the finish floor is laid.

Assembling framing one member at a time on the job site instead of raising prefabricating walls or trusses as a unit. Collar ties rafter ties tension beams structural ridge beams. Roof ceiling construction requirements are listed in california residential code chapter 8. Roof framing terms are related to the parts of a triangle.

Trusses are considered a superior method of framing a roof because of the additional support. A framing member that supports the cut ends of studs or joists usually over a window or door or at either end of a floor or ceiling opening. A 2x4 or 2x6 vertical framing member used to construct walls and partitions. In the following section we ll cover some of the more common roof and rafter terms you ll need.

Studs are attached to plates and studs and plates combined form a wall panel.