Pythagorean Theorem Roof Framing

Pythagorean formula c 2 a 2 b 2 where a b are the legs of a right triangle and c is the hypotenuse.

Pythagorean theorem roof framing.

Pitch whether using roof trusses or stick building the roof the pitch of the roof must be selected. Use the pythagorean theorem to calculate the rafter length. A2 x b2 c2 your rafter length 14400 20736 35136 the square root of which 187 446 your rafter length in inches step 2 lay out your rafter. Gable roofs for example are made by placing two right triangles together.

Apr 9 2015 the pythagorean theorem makes carpentry work so much easier when it is used for squaring walls foundations and roof framing. Then add the length of the rafter tail. Example of length by calculation determine the total length of a common rafter for a building with a span of 12 ft. Align your framing square so the 10 mark and 12 mark meet the edge of your rafter stock.

Specialized terms help to explain the triangle relationships in roof construction. I haven t used the pythagorean theorem since the 1970 s as a apprentice carpenter to calculate rafter lengths. Geometry section 17 1 planning a roof 467. The pythagorean theorem is used extensively in designing and building structures especially roofs.

Roof framing is the last major framing activity in the construction of a house. The height of the roof above the ceiling is 13 5 ft and the roof is 36 ft across as shown in the figure.