Latest project

[Phil Olson]

I am building a 16'x25' outbuilding and would like help sizing the rafter beam. For a span of 8' it looks like I can use 2x6 rafters but I can't find info on how to size the beam. It's span is 19 feet, (there is an internal wall that breaks up the 25 foot space).

Are there any beam calculators out there for such a small roof?

Thanks,
Phil

 

[Alchymist]

If you are talking about a conventional rafter style roof, the ridge beam is not load bearing - a 1X8 or even a 2X6 is sufficient. The load is carried by the rafters w/collar ties, transferring the weight to the outside walls.

 

[Phil Olson]

I was thinking of a vaulted ceiling so the ridge would have to carry the load.