Roof carpentry involves constructing and installing the roof frame for buildings. This can be done either by framing or using premade trusses. The roof sheathing is then put on top of the frame, usually shingles or wood boards. It’s important to use high-quality lumber for framing and sheathing, with no splits, knots or barked edges. This will ensure that the finished job is strong and weatherproof.
To begin with, install the end trusses at the front and back of the building according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then affix them to each other with temporary bracing. Next, install the first standard trusses (or common trusses, depending on your plan). Make sure to use a level and mark a line at the bottom of the first rafter tail. Also, look for the ‘crown’ on each rafter, which is a bend in the board, and try to position these so that the crown is up or away from you. This is because the weight of the roof will gradually flatten the crown, so it’s best to avoid this.
After the trusses are installed, clad the roof with sheathing, tying in any eaves. The sheathing can be shingles, tiles or sheeting, depending on the type of roof you want. You should then install the underlayment, which is a waterproof material such as felt or asphalt. This is rolled out on the sheathing and then stapled into place, overlapping the existing sheathing by about six inches. roof carpentry