Rafter Top/Seat Cuts

Rafters must be framed to provide a minimum of 1-1/2 inches of bearing on wood or metal and not less than 3 inches on masonry or concrete. Top Cut: Rafters should be securely connected to a ridge board or ridge beam, and this connection must be inspected for proper nailing or use of connectors. Seat Cut: The bird’s mouth cut at the base of the rafter should be checked for proper fit and support on the top plate of the wall.
Rafters must be framed to provide a minimum of 1-1/2 inches of bearing on wood or metal and not less than 3 inches on masonry or concrete. Top Cut: Rafters should be securely connected to a ridge board or ridge beam, and this connection must be inspected for proper nailing or use of connectors. Seat Cut: The bird’s mouth cut at the base of the rafter should be checked for proper fit and support on the top plate of the wall.

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