Cutting Support Beams in the Attic

Roof trusses in an attic are designed to support the weight of the roof, as well as the weight of snow and ice during the winter months. However, a weakened truss does not provide adequate support, and as a result the roof can sag. Ice that accumulates in the sagging area can cause roof damage and leaks. Installing support beams can add strength to sagging roof trusses, preventing damage to the roof. Cutting attic support beams is a straightforward task that requires only basic carpentry tools.

Measuring tape
2-by-6-inch pressure-treated lumber
Circular saw
Protractor
Carpenters level
Miter saw

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the distance between the attic floor joist and the bottom edge of the roof truss section at its center with a measuring tape. This measurement will determine the length of the support beam.
- 2
  Transfer the measurement to a section of 2-by-6-inch pressure-treated lumber with a pencil. Cut the lumber section to length with a circular saw.
- 3
  Place a protractor along the side of the roof truss. Place a carpenters level on the bottom of the protractor and adjust the level and protractor until the bubble appears in the center of the level indicator. This will give you the angle of the roof truss.
- 4
  Miter one end of the support beam to the angle of the roof truss with a miter saw.

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