Ridge Board

Term from Roofing industry explained for recruiters

A ridge board is a key structural component in roof construction. It's the horizontal board that runs along the peak (highest point) of the roof where the rafters from both sides meet. Think of it as the spine of the roof that helps keep everything aligned and stable. Roofers need to work with ridge boards when installing new roofs or doing major repairs. Sometimes it may be referred to as a "ridge beam" or "ridge timber," though there are slight technical differences that mainly concern engineers rather than hiring managers.

Examples in Resumes

Installed and replaced Ridge Boards on over 50 residential roofing projects

Supervised proper alignment of Ridge Boards and rafters on commercial buildings

Performed emergency repairs on damaged Ridge Beams and surrounding structures

Typical job title: "Roofers"

Also try searching for:

Roofing Technician Roof Carpenter Framing Carpenter Residential Roofer Commercial Roofer Roofing Specialist Construction Worker

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure proper installation of a ridge board in challenging weather conditions?

Expected Answer: A senior roofer should explain safety procedures, temporary weather protection methods, and how to maintain proper alignment despite adverse conditions. They should also mention crew coordination and quality control measures.

Q: What factors do you consider when replacing a damaged ridge board?

Expected Answer: Should discuss assessment of surrounding structure, proper sizing, material selection, ensuring proper support during replacement, and coordinating with other trades if necessary.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the signs that a ridge board needs replacement?

Expected Answer: Should mention checking for water damage, splits or cracks, sagging, proper alignment, and how these issues affect the overall roof structure.

Q: How do you ensure proper alignment of rafters to the ridge board?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic measurement techniques, use of levels, importance of equal spacing, and common problems to watch for.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety measures do you take when working with ridge boards?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic safety equipment, proper ladder usage, fall protection, and awareness of surroundings.

Q: What tools are typically used when working with ridge boards?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic carpentry tools, measuring devices, and safety equipment needed for ridge board installation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic safety procedures
  • Tool identification and proper use
  • Understanding of basic roof structure
  • Ability to assist in basic installations

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent ridge board installation
  • Ability to identify common problems
  • Basic repair techniques
  • Team coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex installation oversight
  • Project planning and management
  • Advanced problem diagnosis
  • Training and supervision of junior staff

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Unable to identify basic roofing tools
  • No experience with measuring and alignment
  • Lack of physical capability for roof work
  • No understanding of basic roof structure