To calculate maximum rafter spans using different design criteria (load, snow load, spacing, grade, etc.) for these common lumber species, see the International Residential Code (IRC). The span values (displayed above) are from the American Softwood Lumber standard sizes. Rafters with ceiling not attached to rafters, ground snow load = 50 Psf, dead load = 20 Psf, deflection limit L/180 The following span table uses a moderate snow load of 50 Psf, but yours could be more or less. Consult your local building code authority to determine the snow load in your area. Note: Snow load factors can be specific to the regional location of a structure. Rafter Span Tables Rafters with ceiling not attached to rafters, live load = 20 Psf, dead load = 20 Psf, deflection limit L/180
The braces need to be supported by a bearing wall, shown in the diagram above.Įxample: In the rafter span table below, the highlighted cell (13-0) indicates that a 2' x 8' Douglas Fir rafter, with a grade of #2, spaced 24' apart, can have a maximum span of 13 feet - 0 inches (13-0) if designed for a live load of 20 Psf, and dead load of 20 Psf. Note also that you can break up the span of a rafter by adding a purlin and bracing to the underside. When calculating the maximum span of a rafter, use the horizontal distance between two vertical supports.
