another rafter, depending on the type of roof. Rafters rest on the top wall plate. Rafters are nailed to
the plate, not framed into it. Some are cut to fit the plate, while in hasty construction they are merely
laid on top of the plate and nailed in place. They may extend a short distance beyond the wall to form
the eaves and protect the sides of the building. Sometimes, metal anchor are used to connect joints and
rafters to the top plate (see Figure 3-7). Metal anchors permit rapid installation of joist and rafters,
Figure 3-7. Metal anchors
a. Types. Examples of most types of rafters are shown in Figure 3-8. The four types of rafters
used are common, hip, valley, and jack.
Figure 3-8. Roof framing terms
EN5156
3-4
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