Framing
Rafter
A sloped framing member that forms the structural element of a pitched roof, running from the ridge board or beam down to the top plate of the exterior wall.
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In the Field
Stick-framed rafters require rafter ties or ceiling joists at every rafter pair to prevent the walls from spreading under roof load. Cutting birds-mouth notches correctly (no more than 1/3 of rafter depth) is critical for bearing and code compliance.
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Rule of Thumb
The rafter tie (or ceiling joist) must connect opposing rafters at the wall plate level. Without this tie, the roof acts like an arch and pushes the walls outward — a very common cause of wall failure in older homes.