Top plates cannot be less than 2 in (5. 1 cm) thick. The top plates need to be at least as wide as your studs. If your studs are wider than 4 in (10 cm), use matching-sized boards as your top plates.

Make your measurements along both walls to ensure your boards will line up. On center means the middle of each joist will be on your measurement. This creates even spacing between your boards.

Steeper roofs require more materials to build. [3] X Research source

Make all of your rafters at the same time so they’re ready to use. If you want an overhang, add extra length to one side of your rafter.

If you added an overhang, make your seat cut where your rafter would have ended without one.

Build supports on each gabled side of your roof.

Hurricane clips can be purchased at your local hardware store. You can also toenail the wood by driving the nail in at an angle through the rafter into the top plates.

Have a friend help support the ridge board while you’re nailing it in place.

The center rafters help distribute the weight of the ridge board so it doesn’t slouch or bend.

Stay consistent with which side of the ceiling joist your attach your rafters. If you don’t, your roof won’t be supported as well.

Offset the seams between the plywood by 24 in (61 cm). Never get on top of your roof if you don’t feel comfortable working on it. Hire a professional instead.

Felt paper can be purchased at your local home repair or construction store.

If a full shingle sheet doesn’t fit on the end of one of your rows, use a utility knife to cut it to the correct size.