Below is given a method of finding backing to hips. Set out to scale the line of the pitch of the roof as shown at A B C (Fig. 1), and a portion of the plan D E F G; EG will be the plan of the hip. At right angles to E G set up G H , making it the same length as the height BC, then E H is the pitch of the hip. In E G take any point, as K, and at right angles to this line draw D F through K. With K as centre draw the arc L M tangent to E H as shown, join M F, which is the angle of the backing. Set the bevel to the drawing as shown. Fig. 2 is a sketch showing the bevel being applied to the hip. A drawing as shown at Fig. 1 can be sketched on a board to about l in. scale on a building, and it will be found to take up much less time than the rule-of-thumb method of guess and trial. If work is to be done properly and without mistakes, time must be allowed to set it out. There is no other proper way.

Fig. I.

Setting-out the Bevel of a Hip Rafter.