What are the cuts called that allow a rafter to rest on the top plate?

The correct term for the cuts that allow a rafter to rest on the top plate is known as birds mouth cuts. These cuts are specifically designed to create a notch in the rafter, which allows it to sit securely on the top plate of the wall framing. This connection is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the roof system, as it helps distribute the load of the rafter across the top plate.

Birds mouth cuts consist of two parts: a horizontal cut that creates a flat surface for the rafter to rest on the top plate, and a vertical cut that allows the rafter to fit snugly against the wall. This design not only enhances stability but also prevents the rafter from shifting or slipping off the top plate, which could lead to potential structural failures.

In contrast, notched cuts could refer to a variety of cuts used in different applications, but they do not specifically indicate the design that secures rafters to the top plate. Simple cuts and pocket cuts are not terms commonly used in the context of roofing and framing to denote the appropriate method for rafter placement.