structure
Rafter
The structural framing members that support the roof deck from the wall top plate to the ridge.
Definition
Rafters are the structural framing members that run from the top of the exterior wall up to the ridge of the roof, supporting the roof deck. Rafters are typically 2x6 or 2x8 lumber spaced 16 or 24 inches on center. Modern construction often uses prefabricated roof trusses instead of stick-framed rafters because trusses are faster to install and more efficient to engineer.
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