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How do I calculate rafter size with purlin bracing? The total span is ~23' and the purlin bracing is ~9' from one side and ~14' from the other. Is it calculated on total or clear span?

Edit for clarification: It is purlin bracing with a strongback, aka "under-purlin"

I'm trying to obtain a permit to extend my roof line over a room addition and porch. The room already has a roof, but it's a 1/12 slope and prone to leaks. This would bring it up to the ~4/12 pitch of an adjacent addition. I live in the southern part of Zone 2. The only frozen water we see is covered in syrup or in our drinks. The permit office here will accept my sketchup, or even hand drawn, diagrams for a permit. I just have to tell them what size rafter and spacing I plan to use and they will either approve or deny it.

Rough drawing. New rafters in red: enter image description here

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I like your drawing/sketch. Even I understand how you propose to add the "steeper" roof pitch. I even see how you plan to lap the joists at the interior "support" and fasten to the existing roof structure...nice touch.

Unless you plan on using one of those super heavy "concrete" roof tiles that weighs more than 8 lbs. per square foot, 2x8's at 24" oc or 2x6's at 16" oc. (Grade: standard and better) will support a Dead Load of 15 psf plus a Live Load of 15 psf.

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  • Thanks for the post. I was really looking for how to calculate the size needed. Based on your comment, I'm guessing it's based on clear span. I'll be matching the standard 3-tab on the rest of the roof. Span tables put #2 southern yellow pine at 13-11 for a 2x8 24" oc and 2x6 at 13-0 for 16" oc. – kyle Apr 25 '17 at 2:56
  • Yes, it is "net" clear span, (face of bearing to face of bearing). – Lee Sam Apr 25 '17 at 3:15

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