matching up existing rafters with addition question

[fireman175]

Hello,
I am adding on to a gable end. It is a 5:12p roof. In the existing roof, they have used 2x6s that are supported in the middle and are 16"oc. There is about a 30" overhang on 2x4 walls.

In the addition, I am using 2x6 walls, the same height, and would like to use 2x10s. The distance from ridge to wall is 12'.

My question is, can I cut the rafters so they only leave a 2x4 rafter tail going past the top plate? This allows the rafter to rest on the wall and I will be building a bottom chord of the two rafter ends together. Thus, forming a triangle. Will I loose my 2x10 strenght by doing this? Or is this the normal way of doing it?

Thanks, Carl

[Rich]

That's pretty normal to cut the seat.. my first question is - How are the existing rafters cut? Easier - does the bottom edge of the rafter line up with the inside or outside of wall?

[fireman175]

Hi, thanks for responding. I have not torn into that area yet, however I think they are notched allowing the 4" to pass into the soffit area. Can you please explain why you ask?


Thanks much,
Carl

[Rich]

The height the rafter is above your existing wall will determine what the height of the new rafter is.