Ridge Beam Calculator

Formula

To calculate the size of the ridge beam:

$RB = \frac{S \times L \times W}{8 \times F}$

Where:

$RB$ is the Required Size of the Ridge Beam (units)
$S$ is the Roof Slope
$L$ is the Length of the Roof (units)
$W$ is the Width of the Building (units)
$F$ is the Allowable Stress of the Beam Material (units)

Ridge Beam Definition

A ridge beam is a structural element used in construction, specifically in roof framing. It runs along the apex of a sloping roof, essentially the highest horizontal line of the roof, and is designed to support the roof's load, distributing the weight of the roof onto the walls of the structure. The rafters or trusses of the roof are attached to the ridge beam, providing stability and preventing the roof from sagging or collapsing.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Roof Slope ( $S$ ) = 0.5
Length of Roof ( $L$ ) = 30 units
Width of Building ( $W$ ) = 20 units
Allowable Stress of Beam Material ( $F$ ) = 200 units

Using the formula:

$RB = \frac{0.5 \times 30 \times 20}{8 \times 200} = \frac{300}{1600} = 0.1875 \text{ units}$

The required size of the ridge beam is approximately 0.19 units.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Roof Slope ( $S$ ) = 0.6
Length of Roof ( $L$ ) = 25 units
Width of Building ( $W$ ) = 15 units
Allowable Stress of Beam Material ( $F$ ) = 150 units

Using the formula:

$RB = \frac{0.6 \times 25 \times 15}{8 \times 150} = \frac{225}{1200} = 0.1875 \text{ units}$

The required size of the ridge beam is approximately 0.19 units.