Roof Ridge Beam Definition

Ridge beam sizing is based on the span of the beam between supports and the amount of roof load supported by the beam.

Roof ridge beam definition.

A structural ridge beam is required when independent support for high ends of rafters is necessary. Although the names are unfortunately similar a ridge beam serves a much different purpose than a ridge board. Ridge beam a beam at the upper ends of the rafters below the ridge of a roof. A ridge beam is a structural member used to support the ends of the rafters at the ridge transferring it s loads to posts or gable end walls.

The rafters terminate against the ridge board unless the framing is designed to bear rafter against rafter with no ridge board. This type of framing is a specially designed rafter layout and requires precise and experienced erection. A timber frame roof has rafters and a ridge beam as with stick framing but the ridge is a large structural beam that the rafters sit on top of or sometimes fit into notches cut into the beam. 818 mcgraw hill dictionary of architecture and construction.

Plural ridge beams carpentry the top longitudinal beam of a ridged roof where the top ends of the rafters meet. With this design the ridge beam bears much more load weight than the ridge board on a standard stick framed roof. Collar ties rafter ties tension beams structural ridge beams. Some of these can support the roof and prevent ridge sagging and wall spreading.

It supports the floor or roof above while adding integrity to walls. Please submit questions via email. Definition of ridge board in construction the top board at the peak of a roof. A roof beam will be the thickest and most important element of a roof or levels within a property.

Conditions for which a ridge beam is required are described after discussion of a basic gable roof. A crown plate 2. The loads on the ridge beam are carried by vertical posts at the beam ends down through the building structural walls to the building foundation. Ridge beams are required by code if the roof slope is less than 3 in 12 irc section r802 3.

This article describes and illustrates the different types of support that prevents roof sagging and wall bulging at buildings including definitions of collar ties rafter ties and structural ridge beams. It also supports joists trusses and other roofing elements. A roof beam is a load bearing member that is integral to the strength of the building. Definition of structural ridge or ridge beam used in roof framing.