Dry Rot Rafter Repair

Dry rot rafters are a common problem with homes.

Dry rot is caused by a lack of maintaining the paint on fascia boards, leaky gutters and problems with the roofing just to mention a few.

The best time to fix the dry rot on an eave or rafter tail is when doing a roof. It is a whole lot easier if the roof is off to do these types of repairs. I like to see the whole rafter tail removed from the plate to the gutter or fascia board. This is a west coast style overhang without a soffit and fascia board which makes the dry rot repair a real simple fix for you DIYer's. It is very common not to have a fascia board in California and so the first thing to dry rot attacks is the rafter tails. As you can see here, one of my roofers has cut the tails back to the plate making sure the rafter is still supported but enough to remove the frieze block and dry rotten tails. It is my custom to double the length of the overhang measurement for the new tail to be cut up into the attic area. So here we have a 2-foot overhang and the new rafter tail will be cut at 2 foot plus 4 feet or a total of at least 6 feet.

AskARoofer Tip

Leaving the still functional old rafter allows the new board to be fastened to the old, keeping the same roof pitch. I like to pre-cut, prime and paint all repairs on overhangs since painting on the ground is easier than on a ladder. Most inspectors want to see a finished product to get a final sign off on the permit.

You can see the newly painted rafters in the photo extends well into the attic area and is nailed with a six-inch staggered schedule. All that is needed is to cut and install new frieze blocks making a professional-looking job and better than just chopping off six inches of rotten wood and scabbing on a block of wood at the end of the tail-like many DIYer's do.

Have a question? AskARoofer.

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory.

Disclaimer: The information provided on AskARoofer.com or information sent by emails is the opinion of the writers. It is the responsibility of the reader to check for accuracy in one's own jurisdiction, as there are different codes and restrictions for different parts of the country. AskARoofer.com does not accept any liability for the use of information on this website or email. AskARoofer.com has no controls over product failures, installation, or climate conditions that may change the roofing process in your area. Our information is in general to our area and cannot be the same as your local town or state. It is advised to seek the local Building Department, Licensed Contractor and local Product Representative for proper installation requirements and code enforcement when installing a new roof.