Bolting doubled up rafters and trimmers?

Joined
2 Mar 2019
Messages
293
Reaction score
3
Country
United Kingdom
Hi.

I have made a roof with the velux openings.

Both trimmers and rafters have been doubled up.

I have screwed them together and used joist hangers where needed.

What is purpose of bolting them when the rafters run full span and the trimmers all sit in hangers?

I have screwed them with normal wood screws.

I can understand bolting when extending a joist but not in this case.

Maybe I'm being stupid.

Please enlighten me.

Thanks
 
Last edited:
Sponsored Links
We use 100mm 6's screws staggered up the length. You may have to fix these at a slight angle to prevent the sharp end poking through. If you can get 90mm 6's use them.
 
We use 100mm 6's screws staggered up the length. You may have to fix these at a slight angle to prevent the sharp end poking through. If you can get 90mm 6's use them.

I'm one step ahead I've been using 80mm :)

So bolts are only necessary for sistering joists or where loads are going to be higher such as trimmers for staircases?
 
Sponsored Links
.
I'm one step ahead I've been using 80mm :)

So bolts are only necessary for sistering joists or where loads are going to be higher such as trimmers for staircases?
Bolts are better and more durable as screws are brittle and can snap. I've not seen a grade 6 snap though.
Yes I'd agree that loads and importance coupled with common sense.
A doubled up rafter will be connected with roof batten and often with ceiling board and is unlikely to misbehave even without any screws.
 
Last edited:
The purpose of any fixing is to transfer the loads equally between each timber so that it acts as a single component.
How that is done does not really matter as long as the performance is there.

Sometimes, individual timbers can bow or bend over time and screws may not be good enough to stop that unless there are loads of them.
 

DIYnot Local

Staff member

If you need to find a tradesperson to get your job done, please try our local search below, or if you are doing it yourself you can find suppliers local to you.

Select the supplier or trade you require, enter your location to begin your search.


Are you a trade or supplier? You can create your listing free at DIYnot Local

 
Back
Top