How do you replace a rotten barge rafter?

Answer 1

First figure out why the rafter rotted ! It also depends on the construction methods the builder used. Some framing methods use "outriggers " to attach the barge rafter. You can tell by the nail heads in the side of the rafter. If there are a series of nails equally spaced doing down the rake of the rafter , most likely it is nailed to outriggers. You will have a couple of nails then a few feet on down you will have a couple more nails. Newer homes usually don't have outriggers. Your barge rafter is nailed to your roof decking. So the decking actually holds it up. It will be nailed also to your ridge at the top and to the sub-facia on the bottom. The barge rafter also serves as the sub-facia. You will have to remove this in order to get to the barge rafter. Usually the facia is a cedar board.