What is Rafter Length?

This is the length of a common rafter, which runs from the ridge board (top center of the roof) to the outer edge of the wall plate. It is calculated based on the roof pitch, building width, and any overhang.

Key Formulas for Rafter Calculations

1. Rafter Length

The rafter length (R) is calculated using the Pythagorean theorem. The formula is:

$R = \sqrt{\left( \frac{W}{2} + O \right)^2 + \left( \frac{W}{2} \times P \right)^2}$

Where:

• R = Rafter length (in feet or meters)
• W = Building width (in feet or meters)
• O = Overhang (in feet or meters)
• P = Roof pitch, expressed as the rise/run ratio (e.g., 6/12 or 0.5)

Example Calculation for Rafter Length

Input Values:

• Building Width (W) = 20 ft
• Overhang (O) = 2 ft
• Roof Pitch (P) = 6/12 = 0.5

Using the formula:

$R = \sqrt{\left( \frac{20}{2} + 2 \right)^2 + \left( \frac{20}{2} \times 0.5 \right)^2}$

Simplify:

$R = \sqrt{12^2 + 5^2} = \sqrt{144 + 25} = \sqrt{169} = 13 \, \text{ft}$

2. Roof Angle

The roof angle ($\theta$) is calculated using the inverse tangent ($\arctan$) function:

$\theta = \arctan(P)$

Where:

• θ = Roof angle (in degrees)
• P = Roof pitch (rise/run ratio)

Example Calculation for Roof Angle

Input Values:

• Roof Pitch (P) = 6/12 = 0.5

Using the formula:

$\theta = \arctan(0.5)$

Simplify:

$\theta \approx 26.57^\circ$

3. Slope Factor

The slope factor (S) is calculated as:

$S = \sqrt{1 + P^2}$

Where:

• S = Slope factor (used to multiply horizontal measurements for sloped lengths)
• P = Roof pitch (rise/run ratio)

Example Calculation for Slope Factor

Input Values:

• Roof Pitch (P) = 6/12 = 0.5

Using the formula:

$S = \sqrt{1 + 0.5^2}$

Simplify:

$S = \sqrt{1.25} \approx 1.118$

Key Benefits of Using the Rafter Length Calculator

1. Precision: Get accurate rafter measurements, roof angles, and slope factors with minimal effort.
2. Time-Saving: Eliminate manual calculations and focus on the construction process.
3. Versatility: Supports various roof pitches and building dimensions for all roofing projects.
4. Ease of Use: Designed for contractors, builders, and DIY enthusiasts to simplify complex roofing calculations.

FAQ

1. What is rafter length, and why is it important?

Rafter length is the distance from the top of the wall plate (where the rafter sits) to the ridge board (the peak of the roof). It's crucial for accurate roof construction. Incorrect rafter lengths can lead to structural problems, leaks, and an uneven roofline.

2. How do you calculate rafter length?

Rafter length is typically calculated using the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²). In this case:

• 'a' is the roof rise (vertical distance from the wall plate to the ridge).
• 'b' is the run (half the span, or horizontal distance from the wall to the center of the building).
• 'c' is the rafter length. Therefore, Rafter Length = √(Rise² + Run²).

3. What's the difference between rafter length and span?

The span is the total horizontal distance between the outer walls of a building. The run is half the span. The rafter length is the diagonal distance along the rafter itself, from the wall to the ridge.