A roof structure has many components that must work together to keep wind and rain at bay. Roof joists are important structural components that support the weight of the roof and distribute the load to the walls and foundation below. When a beam begins to fail, it’s important to fix the problem quickly to prevent further damage. You can learn how to repair a broken ceiling joist.
Symptoms of a broken beam
Many homeowners have no idea that they have a broken ceiling joist. Unless they do regular inspections of your attic, the problem is not found for a long time. But, a broken beam can cause problems with the roof itself. You may have a broken ceiling joist if:
- Has a sunken area in the roof deck
- You have a leak through the roof deck.
- Has shingles starting to separate from the roof
Think of a ceiling joist. It is one of several lined up together. When all are in good order, the roof deck attached to them is straight and secure. That straight surface allows the water to flow smoothly.
When a beam breaks below, that removes a section of support below the deck. This can cause deck sag. A buckling in that support layer provides the perfect place for water to subside and accumulate. That can lead to water penetration and eventually to leaks. The sunken platform also moves enough that the tiles secured to it become loose and begin to fall.
What can break a beam?
There are several ways that beams can snap or break:
- Heavy load of snow or ice
- A person who stomps too hard
- someone cutting the beam
- A flaw in the wood
- Wood damage by pests
damage assessment
How much damage did the broken beam do to the roof? That is a critical question to answer before learning how to repair a broken ceiling joist. If the broken piece has caused problems with the roof structure, you need to address all issues along with rafter repairs.
Look at the roof above the broken beam, as well as the bottom of the roof deck attached to the beam. If there is any water penetration, you will see water stains on the deck. You may find loose or missing shingles upstairs.
If the water penetration is extensive or you have multiple loose or missing shingles, you should hire a roofing contractor. The broken rafter has compromised the strength of the roof and you want a professional to get the roof back into shape.
fixing the beam
Here’s how to repair a broken ceiling joist.
- Place a jack under the break and push the joist up until it is level with the joists next to it.
- Cut 2x4s into lengths at least 1 foot longer than the broken area. You can use full length boards for added strength.
- Using construction adhesive on the long face of the board, secure it to one side of the joist with the brake in the center.
- Drive a pair of 4″ screws into the 2×4, far enough to go into the joist, but not out the other side.
- Do the same to the other side of the joist with the other 2×4.
- Insert all the screws to secure the three pieces of wood into a single beam. Add more screws every 6 inches on each side.
You just learned how to repair a broken ceiling beam.