How to Extend Rafters

Co-authored by David Bitan

Last Updated: August 25, 2021

Adding an overhang or an awning to your roof can be a great way to add to the aesthetic of your home as well as create a little more additional shade from the sun. In order to do so, you’ll need to extend your rafters. It’s actually not extremely difficult to do, but it’s important that you do it correctly in order to be able to support the weight of any overhangs you install. To help you out, we’ve answered a few of the most common questions that folks have about what it takes to extend your rafters.

Question 1

Can you extend roof rafters?

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Rafter extensions are pieces of lumber that you can install onto the rafters of your roof. They’ll extend the total length of your rafters and allow you to support the weight of a small overhang.^{[1]
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Question 2

How do I install rafter extensions?

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Your roof is covered by external trim and insulation. You’ll need to remove all of the material so you can access the rafters to install your extensions. You should be able to see into your roof from the outside.^{[2]
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The amount of space between the roof sheathing and the external plate can vary based on how your home was constructed. So choose the largest-sized lumber you can fit between the space to use as rafter extensions.^{[3]
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Nail lumber to the rafters so twice the overhang length is in the roof. Measure the length you want for your overhang and then double it to find the length of the lumber that you’ll connect to the rafters inside your roof. Cut your lumber to fit your measurements. Then, nail the lumber to your existing rafters so the overhang matches your measurements.^{[4]
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- It’s important that your rafter extensions are a ratio of ⅓ external extension, and ⅔ internally connected to your existing rafters.

Question 3

Can rafters be joined?

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A fishplate is a flat piece of metal that is used to connect materials such as rails on a railroad. They can also be used to join rafters. Use a fishplate that’s at least .75 in (19 mm) thick and connect it to the 2 rafters with 6 large nails on each side of the plate.^{[5]
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Question 4

How much can a roof overhang without support?

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Anything past this length can put too much strain on your rafter extensions, especially if you have an overhang installed on them. Keep your extensions below this length if you don’t have additional support to avoid potentially damaging your roof if the overhang collapses under the strain.^{[6]
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Question 5

How much does it cost to extend a roof?

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The materials alone cost about $11.50 per foot (.6048 m). If you plan to do the job yourself, you can save on the labor costs that would be included if you have your roof extended by a professional. But a good contractor will also make sure your roof is up to the standards of any local building codes.^{[7]
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Warnings

Check your local building codes or neighborhood association bylaws before you start work extending your rafters. You could face a hefty fine if you violate the rules.

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