What happens to the top plate of a knee wall if it is not properly aligned with the rafters?

When the top plate of a knee wall is not properly aligned with the rafters, it is likely to sag. The top plate provides structural support and helps distribute the load from the rafters to the walls below. If this alignment is off, it can cause an unequal load distribution, leading to sagging as the weight of the rafters is not adequately transferred through the knee wall.

Sagging occurs because the top plate is not receiving even support, which can lead to excessive bending or deflection under the weight of the rafters, especially if snow or other loads are applied. Maintaining proper alignment is crucial in ensuring the structural integrity and stability of the roof system. Thus, ensuring the top plate aligns correctly with the rafters is essential to prevent long-term issues such as sagging, which can lead to further structural problems in the roofing system.