Pergola Roof Rafter Spacing

Patio roof maximum beam rafter spans beamsmeasuring pergola dimensions learn the standardwhat is max distance between posts using 2x12x20 foot beams for apergola beam span calculator.
Pergola roof rafter spacing. So the rafter spacing should be 15 inches and 29 32 of an inch for absolutely even spacing. The most important rule in spacing is to keep the distance consistent between all the rafters. When rafters are on 3 foot centers i typically space the purlins 19 inches. With a good design and a well thought out plan a homeowner can create a classic and relaxing outdoor setting that they will enjoy using for years to come.
Posts will be 6 x6 and will be notched to accept a sandwich beam of two 2 x s. The key thing to remember when it comes to determining pergola rafter spacing is that you cannot go more than 16 inches from center to center between rafters. Take note of this measurement as this will be the first number in the size pergola you choose. So can six tall pergola posts really be anywhere between one and five feet apart.
Since the cedar stock i use is cut green and contains a lot of moisture i usually allow it to air dry for a couple of months before i apply a finish. But they do tend to space rafters in one of several industry standard increments typically either 12 16 or 24 inches apart. Install the front and rear rafters first fastening them to the face of the support posts above the girder. Spacing the rafters 16 to 20 inches apart is common.
To calculate your rafter length for a freestanding pergola it is measurement a 3. 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. The average pergola structure is usually between four and eight feet tall and eight feet and taller. Across the beams the rafters will be 2 x6 s on 8 centers which should be sufficient given their 4 6 spans.
Builders aren t bound by standard rafter spacing measurements. In our example showing a 13 x19 big kahuna freestanding pergola this calculation would be. Patio roof maximum beam rafter spans what is max distance between posts pergola main beams span building span tables for 8 x12 x24 western red pergola beam span calculator. Spacing of the rafters will vary according to your visual preference and the size of the pergola.
The only hard and fast rule of rafter spacing.