Roof Sagging Between Rafters

Because it was structurally inadequate when installed or has deteriorated over time.

Roof sagging between rafters.

Sagging rafters can lead to serious problems with the entire roofing system. Prevent this unfortunate series of events by bracing your rafters to make them sturdy and resistant to snow loads and wind. If the roof sags between the rafters or trusses the most likely cause is sheathing that s too thin for the area it covers. Also inspect the metal or plywood gusset plates used where your wood meets on a truss look for damage that includes cracks rot breaks and any other impairment.

When sagging gets too severe it can lead to roof collapse and once the roof goes the house won t last for long. The fix here is to replace the thin sheathing with thicker sturdier sheathing. Drill four 3 8 holes in the base of the steel angle stock and four holes in the side. Using 3 8 x 2 lag.

Sagging sheathing between rafters may be due to rot delamination use of fiberboard or other materials that may not perform well over the life of a home or due use of too thin plywood roof decking to start with. Place the side holes about 1. Roof sagging in between trusses 1. Remove any broken splinters of wood that may prevent the rafter or truss member from re aligning itself.

Fixing a truss or rafter. Sagging rafters are a sign that a house is in serious trouble. 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. Grab a flashlight and head up to your attic to inspect your roof rafters and decking specifically those where your roof is sagging.