Translation guide
A rafter is a structural beam in a roof. In Japanese, the word depends on the type and position of the beam. The most common general term is 垂木 (たるき), but other words exist for specific architectural contexts.
The sloping beams that support the roof, typically visible from inside an attic or traditional building.
The standard word for rafters in Japanese architecture. Refers to the sloping beams that run from the ridge to the eaves.
古い家の垂木が見えている。
The rafters of the old house are visible.
Literally 'roof rafter', a more explicit term sometimes used in construction contexts.
屋根垂木の交換が必要だ。
The roof rafters need to be replaced.
In Japanese carpentry, rafters are categorized by their position and function. These terms are technical.
The lower, visible rafters in a traditional roof structure, often seen from the eaves.
地垂木は軒先で見える。
The lower rafters are visible at the eaves.
The upper, hidden rafters that extend the eaves further out, used in temple and shrine architecture.
飛檐垂木は寺院建築に使われる。
Flying rafters are used in temple architecture.
Corner rafters used in hip roofs, running diagonally.
隅垂木は寄棟屋根に必要だ。
Corner rafters are necessary for a hip roof.
In contemporary building, the English word 'rafter' may be used as-is, or a generic term for structural beam is used.
Loanword from English, used in modern construction contexts, especially for Western-style framing.
ラフターの間隔は45センチです。
The rafter spacing is 45 centimeters.
General word for beam. Can sometimes refer to rafters in context, but is broader and includes horizontal beams.
梁 usually means a horizontal beam, not specifically a sloping rafter. Use 垂木 for clarity.
太い梁が天井を支えている。
Thick beams support the ceiling.
Use 垂木 for traditional Japanese architecture or when describing visible rafters in an old house. Use ラフター in modern construction contexts, especially when referring to Western-style roof framing. In casual conversation about a house, 垂木 is more natural.