The downward settlement of the foundation can cause the stud wall to be pulled downward. As the stud wall moved downward the diagonally sloping roof rafters would have had to accommodate the vertical movement of the wall. In this scenario, the rafters are pulled outward away from the ridge board beam. When this occurs the toe-nails connecting the rafter to the ridge board are pulled out with the outward movement of the rafter. As the nails are withdrawn, their capacity to resist gravity and seismic forces are significantly diminished. Accordingly, the structural system is weakened by the loss of strength of the connections of the roof rafters. This leaves the house vulnerable to major structural damage due to gravity forces, seismic forces, and/or continued settlement. To know just how the structure has moved and the exact impacts to the structural system, contact us for an assessment and consultation.
Jeremy Livermore, S.E., P.E.
Structural Engineer, License #: S5905
Civil Engineer, License #: C71491
OC Structure Check
1133 Camelback St.
Unit #11101
Newport Beach, CA 92658
949-478-4026 cell
www.ocstructurecheck.com
jeremy
