Rafter Calculator

Calculate common-rafter length from building span or horizontal run, roof pitch and optional horizontal overhang.

For a 6:12 roof, enter 6.

How it works

The calculator converts the pitch to a slope factor and applies it to the horizontal run. The optional overhang is treated as additional horizontal run.

rafter length = horizontal run × √(1 + (rise/12)²)

Limitations

  • This is geometric layout only. It does not size rafters, account for ridge/seat-cut shortening, or certify structural or code compliance.