Step 18: Install the Rafters

assembling the rafters
Photo: Kolin Smith
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Sandwich the stringers between the rafters so that the middle one is centered and the outer ones are 15½ inches from the top tips of the rafters. Secure them by driving 3-inch screws through the rafters and into the ends of the stringers. Set the rafter assembly in place so that the inside faces of the rafters sit against the outside faces of the top support blocks. Secure it by driving 2⅝-inch screws through the support blocks and into the inside faces of the rafters.
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    Tools List

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    • sledge hammer
      sledgehammer
    • miter saw
      miter saw
    • jigsaw
      jigsaw
    • drill
      drill/driver and 1-inch paddle bit
    • caulk gun
      caulk gun
    • four-foot level
      4-foot level
    • hand clamps
      clamps
    • combination square
      combination square
    • flexible curves
      flexible curve to draw profile for rafter tails

    Shopping List

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    All lumber listed is western red cedar.

    2x4s Get twelve 8-foor boards.

    1x4s Get at least four 8-foot boards.

    1x2s Get at least nine 8-foot boards. 2x6s Get three 8-foot boards.

    2x2s Get two 8-foot boards or five 4-foot spindles for the purlins.

    ¼-inch spacers cut from scrap.

    Post anchors Get four.

    Construction adhesive

    Stainless-steel trim-head screws You need three sizes: 1¼ inch, 2⅝ inch, and 3 inch.