The ends of exposed rafters that extend beyond the roofline will decay if they’re left unprotected. Paint or stain works for a while, but both have to be renewed from time to time.
Copper end caps are a good solution to this problem. I’ve used them on several jobs, and they are easy to install. They cost about the same as gutters, and look better with each passing year. I used 16-oz. copper sheeting, cut to the pattern shown and nailed in place with brass ringshank nails to avoid any galvanic action.
—Angelo Margolis, Sebastopol, CA
Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #12
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GREAT Idea, Mr. Margolis! The "Next Time" I have this "Situation," I'll USE Your Idea! THIS Method will "ONLY Get" Better-Looking over Time!
Yes a good idea; I have used a similar detail and watched it age. The copper should extend past the bottom of the rafter about a quarter inch so the water drips and does not wick up into the wood.