Pitched Roof Rafter Spacing

If your local building authority has a rafter spacing code you may not space rafters wider than required by code.

Pitched roof rafter spacing.

So the space between rafters can be greater without reducing the maximum span. For pitched roofs flat roofs and ceiling joists. Surveyors span tables for designing roof rafters. Visit the roof framing page for more information on cutting roof rafters and visit the roof pitch calculator for determining rafter lengths based on rise and run.

Typical rafter spacing codes will specify a minimum spacing of 16 inches 19 2 inches or 24 inches. Rafters must be strong enough to hold the roof sheathing and the shingles. The same concept holds true for roof trusses. An essential part of planning a patio roof or gazebo project is determining the number size and spacing of rafters beams and posts according to the loads they will carry.

As a general rule roofs that have a high human occupancy rate should be framed with rafters every 16 structures such as sheds or barns can be frames with rafters every 24 again make sure to consult local codes. Maximum rafter spans for a patio roof in areas with mild climates patio roofs are generally designed for loads of 30 psf pounds per square foot. If your project had a rafter length of 8 or less a safe and strong method is to use 2x8 framed 16 on center.