Replacing Rotted Roof Joists

A neat trick contractors do when dealing with dry rot is add another level to the floor joists.

Replacing rotted roof joists.

The joist plate is bolted to the timber making the joint b as strong as the original joist. Put the new piece of wood in using screws that are twice as long as the thickness of the new wood. Measure the dimensions of the old rafters beneath your roofing surface. The rotten timber should be removed first and the end of the joist treating to discourage any further rot.

To replace the joist you need to measure the entire length. These plates are a quick and neat solution for joist ends that aren t going to be seen. To repair a roof joist you will need to either replace the entire joist or use a spliced in piece of wood. Put it on both ends of the joists.

Slide one of the newly cut rafter legs into position directly next to the old rafter. I used the same size board 2x6 and cut out one piece to replace the rotted piece. If you feel like the new joists you put in need more integrity you can add vertical boards. I used 3 screws in this case i also put a nice little bit of glue between the new piece and the other joist for more gripping strength.

However replacing the entire joist gives the home much better structural integrity. Use your tape measure to record the distance of both rafter legs. Different sizes are available to suit the joist section and the amount the joist will have to be cut back. Keep in mind that the joist extends through the wall.