27112 Ceilling Joist and Roof

Course Syllabus: NCCER Module 27112-13 — Ceiling Joists and Roof Framing

Course Information

• Course Title: Ceiling Joists and Roof Framing
• Module ID: 27112-13 (NCCER Carpentry Level 2)
• Duration: 47.5 hours (classroom theory, lab practice, and performance testing)
• Format: Blended (classroom instruction, hands-on lab activities, and NCCER assessments)
• Prerequisites: Successful completion of NCCER Carpentry Level 1 (modules 27101–27111) or equivalent experience in basic carpentry, floor systems, wall systems, and building materials

Course Description

This module introduces trainees to the layout, framing, and installation of ceiling joists and roof systems in residential and light commercial construction. It covers common roof types, basic roof framing components, rafter layout for gable and hip roofs (including valley intersections), stick-built and truss-built methods, and the fundamentals of roof sheathing installation. Emphasis is placed on safety, accuracy in layout and cutting, load transfer, and compliance with building codes.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

1. Explain the purpose of ceiling joists and describe proper layout and installation procedures.
2. Identify common roof types and their key framing components.
3. Calculate rafter lengths, angles, and layouts using a framing square or rafter tables.
4. Lay out and cut common rafters, hip rafters, valley rafters, and jack rafters.
5. Frame gable roofs, hip roofs, and roof intersections using stick-built methods.
6. Describe the types, handling, and installation of roof trusses.
7. Install roof sheathing and basic cornice components.
8. Demonstrate safe practices in roof framing and material handling.

Required Materials

• NCCER Carpentry Level 2 Trainee Guide (latest edition)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): hard hat, safety glasses, work boots, gloves, hearing protection
• Tools: framing square, tape measure, chalk line, circular saw, handsaw, hammer, level, calculator
• Lab supplies (provided): lumber, plywood sheathing, nails/fasteners, framing anchors

Course Outline and Schedule

The course is divided into sessions with approximate hours. Schedule may adjust based on class progress and lab availability.

Week 1–2: Ceiling Joists and Roof Fundamentals (15 hours)

• Session 1: Introduction to Ceiling Joists (7.5 hours) Purpose and load transfer; alignment with wall studs; layout procedures; installation techniques; supporting partitions and strongbacks.
• Session 2: Common Roof Types and Components (7.5 hours) Gable, hip, gambrel, mansard, and shed roofs; key components (rafters, ridgeboards, purlins, collar ties, fascia, soffits).

Week 3–4: Rafter Layout and Cutting (15 hours)

• Session 3: Rafter Calculations and Layout Basics (7.5 hours) Unit rise/run/pitch; line length calculations; subtracting ridgeboard thickness; using framing squares and rafter tables.
• Session 4: Advanced Rafter Layout (7.5 hours) Common rafters; hip, valley, and jack rafters; birdsmouth cuts; overhangs and tail cuts.

Week 5: Stick-Built Roof Framing (10 hours)

• Session 5: Erecting Stick-Built Roofs (10 hours) Framing gable roofs; hip roofs and valley intersections; installing supports (purlins, braces); temporary bracing for safety.

Week 6: Truss-Built Roofs and Sheathing (7.5 hours)

• Session 6: Roof Trusses and Sheathing (7.5 hours) Types of trusses; handling, hoisting, and installation; permanent bracing; roof deck preparation and sheathing installation (plywood/OSB, spacing, nailing patterns).

Assessment and Evaluation

• Quizzes and Homework (20%): Short quizzes on terminology, calculations, and safety (multiple sessions).
• Performance Tasks (50%): Hands-on evaluations based on NCCER Performance Profiles, including:
  • Layout and installation of ceiling joists.
  • Layout and cutting of a set of common rafters.
  • Framing a small gable or hip roof section.
  • Installation of roof sheathing.
• Module Exam (30%): NCCER written exam (multiple-choice, covering all objectives; minimum passing score 70%).
• Attendance and Participation: Required for performance tasks; excessive absences may require makeup.

Grading Scale: NCCER certification requires passing both written exam and all performance tasks.

Safety Policies

• All trainees must wear full PPE at all times in the lab.
• Emphasis on fall protection, ladder safety, and safe handling of power tools.
• Unsafe practices will result in removal from lab activities.
• Review of OSHA guidelines for roofing and framing work.

NCCER Certification

Successful completion (passing exam and performance tasks) earns trainees credit toward NCCER Carpentry Level 2 certification and entry in the NCCER National Registry.

Instructor Contact

[Instructor Name] [Email/Phone] Office Hours: [Specify]

This syllabus aligns with the official NCCER Carpentry curriculum and prepares trainees for real-world roof framing applications. Adjustments may be made with notice.