What is the purpose of a ridge board in roof construction?

A ridge board serves a crucial role in roof construction by providing a horizontal structural member at the peak of a roof. Its primary function is to support the upper ends of the rafters, which are the sloped framing members that form the roof's structure. When rafters are installed, they are typically angled down from the ridge board to the exterior walls, creating a sloped roof.

The ridge board allows for proper alignment and stability of these rafters, ensuring that they maintain structural integrity and contribute to the overall strength of the roof. This is particularly important as it helps distribute the forces acting on the roof, such as snow loads, wind pressures, and the weight of the roofing materials, to the supporting walls below.

While other components may also be involved in roof structure and their respective functions, the unique role of the ridge board in supporting the rafters at the roof's highest point is what distinguishes its purpose in the construction process.