Is Your Roof Structure Sound?
Understanding your roof framing is essential for every homeowner, whether you are planning a renovation or worried about a sagging roof line.
While the shingles keep the rain out, the “bones” underneath—the framing—carry the massive weight of Illinois snow, ice, and the roof itself. According to the American Wood Council, wood structural systems must be specifically engineered to handle these local “live loads.”
If you have ever wondered why your attic looks the way it does, or if you are seeing cracks in your upstairs drywall, this guide breaks down the basics of roof framing and what you need to know about your home’s structure.
Rafters vs. Trusses: What is the Difference?
The two most common ways to frame a roof are “stick framing” (rafters) and “truss framing.” Knowing which one you have is critical if you ever plan to finish your attic or remove a wall.
1. Rafters (Stick Framing)
If your home was built before the 1970s, you likely have rafters.
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What they look like: Long boards (usually 2×8 or larger) that slope from the peak of the roof down to the outer walls.
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The Benefit: They leave the attic center open. This is why older homes often have usable attic storage or space that can be converted into a bedroom.
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The Downside: They rely heavily on the exterior walls for support. If the walls shift, the roof can sag.
2. Trusses (Engineered Systems)
Most modern homes in Peoria use trusses.
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What they look like: A web of smaller 2x4s connected by metal plates. They look like a series of triangles.
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The Benefit: They are incredibly strong and cheaper to install. They can span long distances, allowing for big open rooms downstairs without support columns.
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The Downside: The “web” takes up the entire attic space. You generally cannot cut a truss to create a room or storage space without destroying the roof’s integrity.
Signs of Structural Framing Issues
In Central Illinois, our heavy winter snow loads put immense pressure on your roof framing. Over decades, this can cause wood fatigue. Look for these warning signs:
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The “Saddleback” Roof: Go across the street and look at your roof’s ridge line. Does it dip in the middle like a saddle? This often means the rafters are undersized or the collar ties (horizontal supports) have failed.
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Cracked Drywall: If you see diagonal cracks appearing above door frames on your top floor, it may indicate the roof weight is pushing the walls outward.
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Ceiling Sag: If your upstairs ceiling looks bowed, the joists holding it up may be overloaded.
Can I Repair or Modify My Framing?
Never cut a roof framing member without consulting a pro. We see this often: a homeowner cuts a “useless looking” 2×4 in the attic to store some boxes, only to find their living room ceiling sagging three months later.
If you have a sagging roof or rot caused by a long-term leak, the framing can be repaired. This is known as “sistering,” where we bolt new, strong lumber alongside the damaged wood to restore its strength.
Ensure Your Roof’s Backbone is Strong
At SNS Roofing, we don’t just replace shingles; we inspect the residential roofing structure underneath. If your roof line is sagging or you are worried about the weight of the next big snowfall, let us take a look.
Protect your home’s structure. Contact SNS Roofing today for a complete structural roof inspection.
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