How to Fix a Sagging Ridge Beam

Published: Aug 20, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Step 1

Climb up to the attic or other area of the house where the ridge beam is located. Start at one end of the attic and walk toward the other. Inspect the ridge beam and locate exactly where the sagging is taking place. Position a ladder underneath and climb up it, if necessary to see the sagging.

Step 2

Inspect the area that is sagging closely and find all the screws that are holding the ridge beam in place. Tighten any screws down that have come loose over time with a power drill. Fasten the screws down until they are flush with the ridge beam you are installing them into.

Step 3

Place rafter ties on each side of the ridge beam and the rafter above it. This will help strengthen the beams to the rafters. Rafter ties are similar to L-brackets, but are shaped at an angle so they can attach to the rafters and ridge beams.

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Step 4

Insert wood screws through the predrilled holes and secure the rafter tie in place to the ridge beam and the rafter. Repeat the process for the rafter tie on the other side of the ridge beam. Move down the beam and add rafter ties wherever the beam is sagging.

Step 5

Inspect the sagging beam and add more screws to the area that is sagging, if necessary. Drill in wood screws that are 3-4 inches long. This will ensure the beam is properly secured to the rafters above.

Alexander Callos

Alexander Callos began writing in 2005 for "The Lantern" at The Ohio State University and has written for various websites, including Bleacher Report, Top Ten Real Estate Deals and Columbus Sports. He has published articles for CBS Sports,…

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