The spelling of the word "hip rafter" is straightforward as it consists of two commonly used words in the field of carpentry. The first word, "hip," is spelled using the phonetic transcription /hɪp/ and refers to the external angle formed by the meeting of two sloping sides of a roof. The second word, "rafter," is spelled using the phonetic transcription /ˈræftər/ and refers to a structural component that supports the roof. Together, "hip rafter" refers to a specific type of rafter that is used in constructing a hip roof.
A hip rafter refers to a structural component utilized in roof construction, specifically in a hip roof design. A hip roof is a type of roof characterized by its sloping sides and four triangular sides that meet at a common ridge point. The hip rafters are key elements responsible for forming the angled sides or hips of the roof.
In essence, a hip rafter is a diagonal rafter that stretches from the building's external wall plate at the top of the wall to the ridge of the roof. It acts as a support system for the roof structure, connecting the roof's corners or the intersection between two roof planes. Typically, there are multiple hip rafters within a hip roof, forming the framework for the roof's inclined surfaces.
The hip rafters are usually created from larger-sized and stronger wooden timbers, such as 2x6 or 2x8 boards, to bear the weight of the roof and withstand various loads, including snow, wind, and the roof's own weight. These rafters are accurately cut and joined at specific angles to ensure proper alignment and stability. Additionally, they are often braced and supported by other components, such as ridge boards, jack rafters, and collar ties, to enhance the overall structural integrity of the roof design.
The term "hip rafter" is widely used in the field of architecture, construction, and carpentry, describing a crucial element utilized in creating hip roofs, known for their aesthetic appeal and enhanced structural stability.
The etymology of the word "hip rafter" can be understood by examining the origins of each component:
1. Hip: In the context of architecture and carpentry, "hip" refers to the inclined external angle formed by the meeting point of two sloping roof surfaces. The term "hip" comes from Middle English "hyppe" or "hype", which ultimately derives from the Old English word "hyppa". This word originally denoted the projecting hip bone or haunch, which bears resemblance to the angle formed by the roof surfaces.
2. Rafter: A rafter is a beam that supports the roof and provides a framework for the structure. The term "rafter" has Old English roots, derived from the word "raftera", which refers to a rafter or a beam used for support.