What is a rafter?

What is a rafter?

• A. The structural member that supports the roof deck.
• B. The vertical member supporting the ceiling joists.
• C. The horizontal beam at the top of the wall.
• D. The decorative trim along eaves.

Answer: (A)

Rafters are sloped framing members that form the roof frame and carry the weight of the roof deck and roofing materials. They run from the ridge down to the tops of the exterior walls, transferring loads to the walls and ultimately to the foundation. Because of their angle, they establish the roof’s pitch and provide space for insulation and ventilation between them. This differs from vertical studs, which support walls; the horizontal top member at the wall’s top (top plate); and decorative trim along the eaves, which is not a load-bearing roof component.

Rafters are sloped framing members that form the roof frame and carry the weight of the roof deck and roofing materials. They run from the ridge down to the tops of the exterior walls, transferring loads to the walls and ultimately to the foundation. Because of their angle, they establish the roof’s pitch and provide space for insulation and ventilation between them.

This differs from vertical studs, which support walls; the horizontal top member at the wall’s top (top plate); and decorative trim along the eaves, which is not a load-bearing roof component.