Roof Rafter Length

Construction & DIY

Calculate roof rafter length, line length, rise, and overhang dimensions from roof span, run, and pitch (in/ft or degrees) for framing gable and shed roofs.

Calculated Result
17.33 ft

Pitch 6/12 (26.6°) · rafter to wall 15.65 ft

Formula: Rafter = √(run² + rise²) + overhang / cos(θ)

About this calculator

Roof framing requires precise mathematical calculation of rafter lengths, bird's mouth seat cuts, and overhang tails to ensure a stable, weather-resistant roof structure.

This tool computes the theoretical rafter line length, vertical rise, ridge deduction, and actual cut length with eave overhang from roof pitch (e.g. 4/12, 6/12, 8/12) and building span.

How It Works & Formula

FormulaRafter = √(run² + rise²) or run / cos(pitch)

Run = Span / 2 (for gable roofs). Rise = Run × (Pitch / 12). Rafter Line Length = √(Run² + Rise²). Total Rafter Length = Line Length + Overhang Length - Half Ridge Thickness.