Retrofit Improvements: Roof-to-Wall Attachment

Published Tuesday, February 28, 2012

In many homes built before 1990, roof trusses or rafters were fastened to the wall with two framing nails angled into the rafter and wall plate in what is known as a toe-nailed connection. The connection is inadequate to resist the force of high wind pushing up on the overhang and soffit (which can act like a sail to catch wind). In hurricane and gale wind conditions, roof structural supports have been pried away from the wall by the force of wind. Installing a stronger mechanical connection between the roof framing members and the wall will increase the capability of the roof structure to withstand the uplift forces from hurricane winds and lateral forces from earthquakes.

Steel hardware, such as is often seen on outdoor decks, can provide the secure connection required between roof and wall framing. Tie down hardware, also known as hurricane clips, can be installed for under $10. A house sized 40’ x 30’ requires approximately 42 pieces, so providing added assurance with tie down hardware would cost between $200 and $400. This cost, however, assumes direct and simple access to the wall and roof framing, which is not often the case in a completed house. But, retrofitting roof tie down hardware becomes cost effective when included in the scope of other remodeling work such as residing, replacing soffit and fascia, or replacing roof sheathing at the overhang. Consult your contractor for the inclusion of this and other safety details that will add value and peace of mind to your planned home improvement projects.

Download the report