For pitched roofs flat roofs and ceiling joists.
Pitched roof rafter spacing.
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.
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.
Common spacing for trusses on this type of building is often between 2 and 4 feet but trusses built with advanced designs may allow spacing as great as 8 or 12 feet.
If your local building authority has a rafter spacing code you may not space rafters wider than required by code.
Typical rafter spacing codes will specify a minimum spacing of 16 inches 19 2 inches or 24 inches.
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.
Rafters must be strong enough to hold the roof sheathing and the shingles.
Surveyors span tables for designing roof rafters.
So the space between rafters can be greater without reducing the maximum span.
The same concept holds true for roof trusses.