Abstract: A root pass bead welding method for joining two metal base members includes forming a dike bead by welding on a rear surface of one metal base member, and placing the dike bead against or in the vicinity of a distal end of a rear surface of another metal base member to define a groove open at the front surface of the same. Then welding is performed from the front surface of the other metal base member at the groove to form a root pass bead extending between the dike bead and the rear surface of the other metal base member.