How to Apply Sheathing to Trusses

Set up the ladder on a stable and level surface to reach the roof. Ensure the ladder is at least 3 feet higher than the roof. Put on your safety harness, according to the manufacturers directions, and climb up.

Secure a roof bracket from the roof safety harness to the highest part of the middle truss. Secure it by nailing it in with nails in every slot. Strap your safety harness to the nailed roof bracket.

Place the first piece of plywood. You must place the first piece of plywood on one end of the roof on the edge. Place it so it is plumb and even on the edge. Secure it in place by hammering in the 2 1/2- inch sheathing nails. Start by placing a nail on each corner, making sure the nail secures the sheathing to the roof trusses, then nail every 6 inches.

Place the remaining first row of plywood by putting it even with the edge of the roof and plumb against the installed piece of plywood, until you reach the end. Install the higher ones by sliding them into the installed lower ones.

Cut the excess pieces of plywood. With an assistant, hold one end of the chalk line where you must cut the excess and snap the chalk line to mark the plywood. Cut the plywood to size with the circular saw .