Structural Bracing Started

August 19, 2020

Over the last few days I’ve gotten the first strap on the rafters providing structural bracing in lieu of the sheathing that would traditionally be attached there.

I used screws on the lever board to make it easy to remove. The strap is otherwise attached with special structural nails.

I cut a 25 ft length of strapping and placed it over the rafters. I attached it on the top plate side. Then i attached a board to the other end to use as a lever to tension the strap.

The 14 gauge strap is so thick I had to use a reciprocating saw with a metal blade to cut it.

By pulling the lever I was able to get the strap tight enough and then nailed it into place, attaching it to each rafter.

This strap is one of eight, but the building already felt significantly stiffer after attaching it.

I also finally tidied up the last bit of insulation in the roof.

Attic Subfloor & Exterior Vents
Rafter Repair