Oak ridge beam

[Julesr6]

Hi, house built in 1808, re roofed approx 20 years ago when the underlay was put on. Seems quite dry now, but looks like it did have some rot in the past. Do this ridge look safe? Thank you

 

[Julesr6]

 

[Cubist]

Usually the ridge beam/pole is used to carry the rafter timbers where these meet to form the apex of the roof. Your last photo suggests that the bulk of the rafters do indeed sit on the ridge beam but the earlier shots suggest that some are floating above the ridge beam with no obvious support. Can you confirm please and also advise if there are other timbers carrying the weight of the 'floating' rafters?

 

[Julesr6]

Hi Cubist, thank you for your reply. They do look foating in the pictures but they are attached/touching, it’s just where the ridge beam has rotted. There are two purlins as well.

 

[Julesr6]

 

[Julesr6]

This from the other side of the two that look like they were floating.

 

[Julesr6]

This is the first purlin, and there is a second purlin lower down.

 

[Cubist]

Thanks for the prompt reply. So long as the rafters are firmly supported by the ridge beam and there is no indication of ongoing decay or softening of the timbers due to damp - and no sign of woodworm - then I would not be over concerned.

 

[Julesr6]

Hi Cubist, thank you very much for your reply. Yes I think I will just monitor it for now.
Thank you