Ridge Pole Beam Size

[BHMC]

Building size is 19' wide 24' long. Looking to see what size ridge pole beam I could use to span 24 feet.
I don't want to use a micro or engineered beam. I was thinking hemlock milled from a local mill. I know it
will be big a just need to get an idea as to what I am looking at.

Thanks - BHMC

[UpOnTheFarm]

what are your rafters? 2' on center rafters you can get away with 2 x 8 ridge. We can mill up to 30' long (Bradford, NH)

[BHMC]

Uponthefarm,

I sent you a PM...check it out and get back to me, thanks...BHMC

[aws]

Unless your ridge pole is meant to be structural, the size is only a matter of what makes for convenient fastening and assembly. This would change based upon preference, and also roof pitch and rafter depth because these affect the length of your plumb cut. Truth be told you do not need a ridge pole unless it is required to reduce the amount of outward thrust at your tie beams. An example of a structural ridge pole would be one that is supported by periodical posts meant to prevent the rafter peaks from descending. If the rafter peaks can not descend then the feet will not be able to push out against the eave walls. This is a really brief explanation of some of the primary elements at play here, and of course there are variables and exceptions that could be discussed, but I hope this helps a little. For a answer specific to your building load some pictures of your plans. Even a napkin sketch would help. A 19' wide building (9.5'rafter span) is not very large, as long as your fastening detail is correct and your tie beams are adequate, it would be hard to have any catastrophic failures. Your local building yard can size things for you or you can use the tables in any somewhat current building code book for your region (think snow load). Best of luck with the project.