Roof brackets are devices used by roofers to create a stable platform while working on roofs. They are designed in such a way that upon proper installation, they can be easily removed without leaving a spot on the roof.
The improper installation of roof brackets may result in roofers losing their footing, which in turn can cause unmentionable accidents. Roof brackets are mainly used on steep roofs, where it is easy for a roofer to lose his balance while working.
It is important to know how to install roof brackets as important as it is to use those. The procedure may seem complex at first but, to ensure the safety of roofers, it surely is necessary.
To make the installation process easier, Let us walk you through the whole process step by step. So, make sure to follow along with each step.
How To Install Roof Brackets
Now, let’s jump into the process that you have to go through for installing roof brackets. But before installation, you will need some tools and materials to install roof brackets.
Required Tools and Materials:
- Roof brackets
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- 12 or 16-penny nails
- Planks
Step By Step Installation Process:
1. Checking Out The Roof:
Firstly, you have to climb up to the edge of the roof. So, lean a ladder against the side of the building and start climbing.
Once you reach the roofline, you should locate the rafters. You need to attach the roof bracket to the rafter.
To attach the roof brackets to the rafters, what you will need are a number of penny nails.
A note to remember: You will need to drive all of the nails into the rafter directly. If it is not done properly, there is a huge chance that the roof brackets will come sliding down the roof along with you and that is not something that you will want.
2. Attaching Two Jacks:
Following your selection of the rafters, what you have to do is attach two roof brackets to the roof. Following that, you should pull up a tab of one of the shingles.
After you pull that up, slide the top of the jack under the shingle. You need to make sure that the bracket lines up perfectly with the rafter.
You should be able to see the bottom butt of the rafter from the edge of the roof.
3. Nailing The Brackets Securely:
After you are done attaching two roof brackets, what you should do is to drive a 12 or 16-penny nail through one of the slots at the top of the roof bracket.
You will see that there are three slots, so you will have to drive three nails. The nails should go in in a swift hard motion. If they don’t seem to do so, it may be the case that you have missed the rafter.
At that point, you should try to find the rafter. If you fail to locate it, the best course of action will be to stop right there and hire professional roofers.
4. Placing The Planks:
The last step in order is placing the planks. You should place the plank on top of the roof brackets.
A good way to put the plank easily is to place a roof bracket at an interval of six feet. Beginners seem to commit a mistake by not installing a roof bracket on both ends of a plank.
So, make sure to always set the planks after you have installed your roof brackets to each end of the plank. You can continue placing other brackets once the plank is in place.
Things to Remember :
- For additional stability and load carrying capacity, you should install middle brackets under planking once they are placed.
- You have to make sure to examine each nail to whether they are properly driven in. Test the brackets for any wobble in them. If there is any, examine the nails and see whether their placement is along the rafter.
- Always be cautious while placing roofing materials on the planks. You should not place too many materials as they can cause destabilization.
Verdict:
Anyone can install roof brackets on their roof with proper guidelines. Hopefully, you are now fully aware of this process and know-how to install roof brackets.
Lastly, always wear protective gear to keep yourself safe, and best of luck.
