How to Trim Rake Rafters

Measure the rake rafter and use a chalk marker, or pencil, to mark a line where you want to trim on the rafter. Turn the rafter over until all four sides of the rafter have been marked.

Use a ruler against the line to ensure that the line is straight on the rafter.

Put on safety goggles before trimming the rafter. You may also want to wear gloves.

Use a handsaw, or an electric saw, to cut a notch into the rake rafter along the line that you marked. If the rafter is already installed, you will most likely need to use a handsaw to make the cut and you will need to cut the rafter straight through.

Turn the rake rafter onto its side and continue the cut along the line. Continue to make a notch on all four sides of the rafter.

Continue to cut the rake rafter until you have cut through the entire rafter. If it is easier for you to cut from one side, all of the way through, then you can do so. You can also continue to turn the rafter over and cut small notches at a time if you prefer to cut through it that way.

Sand the trimmed edge of the rake rafter down if desired by using sandpaper.