Roof Joist Spacing

Various lumber size options 2 4 2 6 2 8 2 10 the maximum ceiling joist span based on the lumber size species grade and spacing used.

Roof joist spacing.

Ceiling joist spacing in inches 12 16 19 2 24 species and grade of lumber. Maximum rafter spans for a patio roof. A roof joist is always spaced no more than 16 inches apart from another roof joist. Joist span and spacing is set by your local building code.

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. The above spans are based on american softwood lumber standard sizes. Spacing in exterior exposure. Joist spacing of 24 inches is allowed for spans between 16 to 20 feet using 2 inch by 10 inch lumber of these three grades.

So the space between rafters can be greater without reducing the maximum span. Span calculator for wood joists and rafters also available for the. For additional species of lumber check out the rafter span calculator from the american wood council website. Variations in ceiling construction nonparallel ceiling joist designs require additional support construction in the ceiling.

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. 1 psf lb f ft 2 47 88 n m 2. While most residential construction uses 2x8 joists with 16 inch spacing there are many other factors you need to consider when determining the proper joist span length. Live load psf dead load psf span calculator for wood joists and rafters available for the iphone.

If the roof is not completely square you can decrease the space between joists but never increase the space. Live load is weight of furniture wind snow and more. Use these two tables for roof rafters with a slope of 3 in 12 or less. You should check with your local building department for construction requirements in your area.

2 are indicated below. 1 ft 0 3048 m. For example the highlighted cell below shows that a 2 x 6 southern yellow pine joist with a grade of 2 and spaced 24 apart can have a maximum span of 10 feet 0 inches 10 0 if you are designing your structure to support a plaster ceiling. Dead load weight of structure and fixed loads 15 lbs ft 2.

The same concept holds true for roof trusses.