What is the term for the structural members of a roof designed to support roof loads?

The term referring to the structural members of a roof that are specifically designed to support roof loads is rafters. Rafters are inclined beams that create the sloping surface of the roof, allowing them to effectively carry both the weight of the roof itself and any additional loads, such as snow or rain. They are critical in maintaining the integrity of the roofing structure and transferring the loads to the walls of the building.

Beams generally refer to horizontal supports, typically found in floors or ceilings rather than within the roof structure itself. Joists are similar to beams but are usually smaller and run parallel to one another, primarily in flooring systems rather than in roof framing. Supports, while a more generalized term, do not accurately describe the specific function and application of rafters in roof construction. Therefore, the specific role and design of rafters in the framework of roofs make the term the most appropriate choice for this context.