Scarf joint in ridge board - does it need vertical support?

Ben29 · Nov 11, 2023

A home inspector flagged the roof framing because they didn't recognize a scarf joint and thought it was a broken ridge board. Also, there was a single 2x4 supporting the ridge board directly below the scarf joint locations. One of the 2x4 supports was (badly) bowed. Should I tell them to replace the 2x4 with a straight member, or does this scarf joint even need to be supported?

The first photo below shows the 2x4 bowed support in the background.
The second photo shows the scarf joint.

kipfoot · Nov 11, 2023

I don't think this system needs the 2x4, but since it's there acting as a strut it has prevented some roof deformation that would have happened when the house was built. I'd say it was installed to aid construction and left in place.

In your situation, I'd probably recommend a (2) 2x4 replacement if it's aligned over a wall below, just to leave the system as it is.

SWComposites · Nov 11, 2023

Yeah, that (bent/buckled) vertical 2x4 isn't doing anything except getting in the way of access in the attic.

XR250 · Nov 11, 2023

Depends if the rest of the system is framed properly. Do the rafters lap the ceiling joists? Are the ceiling joists cont. across the width of the house?

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Scarf joint in ridge board - does it need vertical support?

Ben29

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