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Architecture/pergola fomula and rafter spacing
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Question
I am building a pergola over a large deck (20'x35'). My 2'x10' rafters run the 20' direction and my architect has spaced them 2' apart. Is this by formula or can I arbitrarily put them closer together to increase the shade. Is there a formula for a "classic" pergola?
If it is unsupported at an intermediate point, a twenty foot span sounds too far for 2x10s in the first place. My guess is that they will sag and possibly fail. Check with structural engineer. You can place them closer together for shade as there is no formula for what will look the best.
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Mr. Henry, Thanks for the prompt reply. I must admit that I'm surprised the greeks didn't have a specific formula for the "balance" between the height/spacing of the rafters and the height/width of the front elevation of the pergola. I'm inclined to decrease the spacing from 2' to 18". Do you think that would be excessive? By the way, there is midpoint support for the rafters - four 2x10's bolted together into a well supported beam. Thanks for the information. I've decided to become a volunteer myself - I'm a veterinarian. I hope I can help you one day. | ||
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John Henry Architect
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