How to Build a Gabled Roof

A gabled roof is one of the most popular style of roof because it is one of the simplest. It consists of a ridge with two sloping sides. The simplicity of the design makes it versatile, as you can easily add dormers to add even more room should the needs of your family dictate it. This article examines building a gabled roof.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Cut all of the rafters that same length, according to the length that's required, when building a gabled roof. Include a birdsmouth, which is on the top plate, on all of the rafters.

2. Use a 2 inch by up to 12 inch board for the ridge board. You can choose whether or not to cut it before you begin framing, as well as have the layout for the rafters marked. Match the layout of the rafters to that of the studs so that the weight of the roof will be distributed down through the house to its foundation.

3. Lay plywood across the ceiling joists for the entire length of the building. This will create a platform from which to work. When you need to pass plywood up to the roof, pass it up through the ceiling joists.

4. Pass up the ridge board - or boards if you need more than one and lay it on the plywood that's on top of the ceiling joists. Lay it in such a manner that the marks for the rafter go in the right direction.

5. Get the rafters up on the same manner, and lay them with the top end lying on top of the top plate. Get up some lumber to help brace the rafters, and continue to the next step of building a gable roof.

6. Secure two rafters to one of the sides with nails. Pick the first and the last rafter according to the layout of the rafter. Raise up the ridge, and make sure that the cuts of the rafter's birdsmouths are on top of the wall. Tack the rafter in place on the wall. Adjust the ridge so that the cut in the top of the rafters meet the ridge's top edge.

7. Put in a stud on the gable's end that extends from the ridge to the top plate. Make sure it's nice and plumb by using a level. Keep the stud in place by nailing a piece of lumber, such as a 2 inch by 4 inch board, near the stud's top. Secure a block to the plywood on the ceiling joists by nailing it, then level the narrow side of the stud and secure it in place by attaching the other end of the bracing 2 inch by 4 inch board to the block.

8. Install the rest of the rafters as you build a gabled roof, alternating from side to side. Make sure they're securely attached to the wall on one end and against the ridge's top o the other. Frame the gabled roof, and install fascia boards, collar ties and overhands. Lay the plywood on the rafters, and frame in the gable's ends. Put down a waterproof barrier, and finish the roof to your specifications.