https://codes.iccsafe.

org/content/IRC2018/chapter-8-roof-ceiling-construction

SECTIONR804
COLD-FORMED STEEL ROOF FRAMING
R804.1General.
Elements shall be straight and free of any defects that would significantly affect their structural
performance. Cold-formed steel roof framing members shall be in accordance with the
requirements of this section.
R804.1.1Applicability limits.
The provisions of this section shall control the construction of cold-formed steel roof framing for
buildings not greater than 60 feet (18 288 mm) perpendicular to the joist, rafter or truss span, not
greater than 40 feet (12 192 mm) in width parallel to the joist span or truss, less than or equal to
three stories above grade plane and with roof slopes not less than 3:12 (25-percent slope) or greater
than 12:12 (100-percent slope). Cold-formed steel roof framing constructed in accordance with the
provisions of this section shall be limited to sites where the ultimate design wind speed is less than
140 miles per hour (63 m/s), Exposure Category B or C, and the ground snow load is less than or
equal to 70 pounds per square foot (3350 Pa).
R804.1.2In-line framing.
Cold-formed steel roof framing constructed in accordance with Section R804 shall be located in
line with load-bearing studs in accordance with Figure R804.1.2 and the tolerances specified as
follows:
1. 1.The maximum tolerance shall be 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) between the centerline of the horizontal
framing member and the centerline of the vertical framing member.
2. 2.Where the centerline of the horizontal framing member and bearing stiffener are located to
one side of the centerline of the vertical framing member, the maximum tolerance shall
be 1/8inch (3.2 mm) between the web of the horizontal framing member and the edge of the
vertical framing member.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.1.2
IN-LINE FRAMING
R804.2Structural framing.
Load-bearing, cold-formed steel roof framing members shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.2.1Material.
Load-bearing, cold-formed steel framing members shall be cold formed to shape from structural
quality sheet steel complying with the requirements of ASTM A1003, Structural Grades 33 Type
H and 50 Type H.
R804.2.2Corrosion protection.
Load-bearing, cold-formed steel framing shall have a metallic coating complying with ASTM
A1003 and one of the following:
1. 1.Not less than G 60 in accordance with ASTM A653.
2. 2.Not less than AZ 50 in accordance with ASTM A792.
R804.2.3Dimension, thickness and material grade.
Load-bearing, cold-formed steel roof framing members shall comply with Figure R804.2.3(1) and
with the dimensional and thickness requirements specified in Table R804.2.3. Additionally, C-
shaped sections shall have a minimum flange width of 1.625 inches (41 mm) and a maximum
flange width of 2 inches (51 mm). The minimum lip size for C-shaped sections shall be 1/2 inch
(12.7 mm). Tracks shall comply with Figure R804.2.3(2) and shall have a minimum flange width
of 11/4 inches (32 mm). Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used wherever 33 mil and 43 mil
thicknesses are specified. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used wherever 54 and 68 mil
thicknesses are specified.
 TABLE R804.2.3
LOAD-BEARING COLD-FORMED STEEL ROOF FRAMING MEMBER SIZES AND
THICKNESSES
WEB MINIMUM BASE STEEL
MEMBERDESIGNATIONa
DEPTH(inches) THICKNESSmil (inches)

33 (0.0329), 43 (0.0428), 54
350S162-t 3.5
(0.0538)

33 (0.0329), 43 (0.0428), 54
550S162-t 5.5
(0.0538), 68 (0.0677)

33 (0.0329), 43 (0.0428), 54
800S162-t 8
(0.0538), 68 (0.0677)

43 (0.0428), 54 (0.0538), 68
1000S162-t 10
(0.0677)

43 (0.0428), 54 (0.0538), 68
1200S162-t 12
(0.0677)

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm

1. a.The member designation is defined by the first number representing the member depth in hundredths of an inch, the letter “s” representing
a stud or joist member, the second number representing the flange width in hundredths of an inch and the letter “t” shall be a number
representing the minimum base metal thickness in mils.
 FIGURE R804.2.3(1)
C-SHAPED SECTION

FIGURE R804.2.3(2)
TRACK SECTION
R804.2.4Identification.
Load-bearing, cold-formed steel framing members shall have a legible label, stencil, stamp or
embossment with the following information as a minimum:
1. 1.Manufacturer’s identification.
2. 2.Minimum base steel thickness in inches (mm).
3. 3.Minimum coating designation.
4. 4.Minimum yield strength, in kips per square inch (ksi) (MPa).
R804.2.5Fastening requirements.
Screws for steel-to-steel connections shall be installed with a minimum edge distance and center-
to-center spacing of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm), shall be self-drilling tapping and shall conform to ASTM
C1513. Structural sheathing shall be attached to cold-formed steel roof rafters with minimum No.
8 self-drilling tapping screws that conform to ASTM C1513. Screws for attaching structural
sheathing to cold-formed steel roof framing shall have a minimum head diameter of 0.292 inch
(7.4 mm) with countersunk heads and shall be installed with a minimum edge distance of 3/8 inch
(9.5 mm). Gypsum board ceilings shall be attached to cold-formed steel joists with minimum No.
6 screws conforming to ASTM C954 or ASTM C1513 with a bugle-head style and shall be
installed in accordance with Section R805. For all connections, screws shall extend through the
steel not fewer than three exposed threads. Fasteners shall have rust-inhibitive coating suitable for
the installation in which they are being used, or be manufactured from material not susceptible to
corrosion.
R804.2.6Web holes, web hole reinforcing and web hole patching.
Web holes, web hole reinforcing and web hole patching shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.2.6.1Web holes.
Web holes in roof framing members shall comply with all of the following conditions:
1. 1.Holes shall conform to Figure R804.2.6.1.
2. 2.Holes shall be permitted only along the centerline of the web of the framing member.
3. 3.Center-to-center spacing of holes shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm).
4. 4.The web hole width shall be not greater than one-half the member depth, or 21/2 inches (64
mm).
5. 5.Holes shall have a web hole length not exceeding 41/2inches (114 mm).
6. 6.The minimum distance between the edge of the bearing surface and the edge of the web hole
shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm).
Framing members with web holes not conforming to Items 1 though 6 shall be reinforced in
accordance with Section R804.2.6.2, patched in accordance with Section R804.2.6.3 or designed
in accordance with accepted engineering practices.

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

FIGURE R804.2.6.1
ROOF FRAMING MEMBER WEB HOLES
R804.2.6.2Web hole reinforcing.
Reinforcement of web holes in ceiling joists not conforming to the requirements of Section
R804.2.6.1 shall be permitted if the hole is located fully within the center 40 percent of the span
and the depth and length of the hole do not exceed 65 percent of the flat width of the web. The
reinforcing shall be a steel plate or C-shaped section with a hole that does not exceed the web hole
size limitations of Section R804.2.6.1 for the member being reinforced. The steel reinforcing shall
be the same thickness as the receiving member and shall extend not less than 1 inch (25 mm)
beyond all edges of the hole. The steel reinforcing shall be fastened to the web of the receiving
member with No. 8 screws spaced not greater than 1 inch (25 mm) center to center along the edges
of the patch with minimum edge distance of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm).

R804.2.6.3Hole patching.
Patching of web holes in roof framing members not conforming to the requirements in Section
R804.2.6.1 shall be permitted in accordance with either of the following methods:
1. 1.Framing members shall be replaced or designed in accordance with accepted engineering
practices where web holes exceed either of the following size limits:
1. 1.1.The depth of the hole, measured across the web, exceeds 70 percent of the flat width of
the web.
 2. 1.2.The length of the hole measured along the web, exceeds 10 inches (254 mm) or the depth
of the web, whichever is greater.
2. 2.Web holes not exceeding the dimensional requirements in Section R804.2.6.3, Item 1, shall
be patched with a solid steel plate, stud section or track section in accordance with Figure
R804.2.6.3. The steel patch shall, as a minimum, be the same thickness as the receiving
member and shall extend not less than 1 inch (25 mm) beyond all edges of the hole. The steel
patch shall be fastened to the web of the receiving member with No. 8 screws spaced not
greater than 1 inch (25 mm) center-to-center along the edges of the patch with minimum edge
distance of 1/2inch (12.7 mm).

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

FIGURE R804.2.6.3
ROOF FRAMING MEMBER WEB HOLE PATCH
R804.3Roof construction.
Cold-formed steel roof systems constructed in accordance with the provisions of this section shall
consist of both ceiling joists and rafters in accordance with Figure R804.3 and fastened in
accordance with Table R804.3.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R804.3
COLD-FORMED STEEL ROOF CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3
ROOF FRAMING FASTENING SCHEDULEa, b
DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING NUMBER AND SIZE OF SPACING OF
ELEMENTS FASTENERSa FASTENERS

6″ o.c. on edges and

Roof sheathing (oriented strand board or 12″o.c. at interior
plywood)to rafter No. 8 screws
supports. 6″o.c. at
gable end truss

Gable end truss to endwall top track No. 10 screws 12″ o.c.

Minimum No. 10 screws, in Evenly spaced, not

Rafter to ceiling joist accordance withTable lessthan 1/2″ from all
R804.3.1.1(3) edges.

Ultimate Design Wind Each ceiling joistor

Ceiling joist
Speed(mph) and Exposure roof truss
orroof truss to
Category
toptrack of
bearingwallb Ceiling Roof 126
<139 126 <139
JoistSpacing Span B110
B115 C C C
(in.) (ft) C

24 2 2 2 3

28 2 2 3 3

16 32 2 2 3 4

36 2 2 3 4

40 2 2 3 4

24 2 2 3 4

28 2 2 4 5

24 32 2 3 4 5

36 2 3 4 6

40 2 3 5 6

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
1. a. Screws are a minimum No. 10 unless noted otherwise.
2. b. Indicated number of screws shall be applied through the flanges of the truss or ceiling joist or through each leg of a 54 mil clip angle. See
Section R804.3.8 for additional requirements to resist uplift forces.
R804.3.1Ceiling joists.
Cold-formed steel ceiling joists shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.3.1.1Minimum ceiling joist size.
Ceiling joist size and thickness shall be determined in accordance with the limits set forth in Tables
R804.3.1.1(1) and R804.3.1.1(2). When determining the size of ceiling joists, the lateral support
of the top flange shall be classified as unbraced, braced at midspan or braced at third points in
accordance with Section R804.3.1.3. Where sheathing material is attached to the top flange of
ceiling joists or where the bracing is spaced closer than at third points of the joists, the “third point”
values from Tables R804.3.1.1(1) and R804.3.1.1(2) shall be used.
Ceiling joists shall have a bearing support length of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) and shall
be connected to roof rafters (heel joint) with No. 10 screws in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.1
and Table R804.3.1.1(3).
Where continuous joists are framed across interior bearing supports, the interior bearing
supports shall be located within 24 inches (610 mm) of midspan of the ceiling joist, and the
individual spans shall not exceed the applicable spans in Tables R804.3.1.1(1) and R804.3.1.1(2).
Where the attic is to be used as an occupied space, the ceiling joists shall be designed in
accordance with Section R505.
TABLE R804.3.1.1(1)
CEILING JOIST SPANS 10 PSF LIVE LOAD (NO ATTIC STORAGE)a, b, c, d
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet - inches)

Lateral Support of Top (Compression)

Flange

MEMBERDESIGNATION Midspan Third-point

Unbraced
Bracing Bracing

Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)

16 24 16 24 16 24

11′-
350S162-33 9′-6″ 8′-6″ 9′-10″ 11′-10″ 10′-4″
10″

12′-
350S162-43 10′-4″ 9′-3″ 11′-3″ 12′-10″ 11′-3″
10″

350S162-54 11′-1″ 9′-11″ 13′-9″ 12′-0″ 13′-9″ 12′-0″

10′- 12′-
350S162-68 12′-2″ 14′-9″ 14′-9″ 12′-10″
10″ 10″

10′-
550S162-33 9′-10″ 15′-7″ 12′-0″ 16′-10″ 12′-0″
11″

16′- 14′-
550S162-43 11′-8″ 10′-6″ 18′-4″ 16′-0″
10″ 10″

550S162-54 12′-7″ 11′-3″ 18′-0″ 16′-2″ 19′-4″ 17′-2″

550S162-68 13′-7″ 12′-1″ 19′-3″ 17′-3″ 20′-6″ 18′-5″

800S162-33 — — — — — —
 800S162-43 13′-1″ 11′-9″ 18′-9″ 16′-9″ 21′-2″ 18′-7″

13′-
800S162-54 12′-6″ 20′-1″ 18′-1″ 21′-5″ 20′-5″
11″

14′-
800S162-68 13′-4″ 21′-4″ 19′-2″ 22′-9″ 21′-9″
11″

1000S162-43 — — — — — —

14′-
1000S162-54 13′-4″ 21′-4″ 19′-2″ 22′-8″ 21′-8″
10″

15′-
1000S162-68 14′-3″ 22′-9″ 20′-5″ 24′-3″ 23′-3″
10″

1200S162-43 — — — — — —

1200S162-54 — — — — — —

14′- 23′-
1200S162-68 16′-8″ 21′-7″ 25′-5″ 24′-5″
11″ 11″
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
1. a.Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
2. b.Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
3. c.Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil
thicknesses.
4. d.Listed allowable spans are not applicable for 350S162-33, 550S162-33, 550S162-43 and 800S162-43 continuous joist members.

TABLE R804.3.1.1(2)
CEILING JOIST SPANS 20 PSF LIVE LOAD (LIMITED ATTIC STORAGE)a, b, c, d
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet - inches)

Lateral Support of Top (Compression)

Flange

MEMBERDESIGNATION Midspan Third-point

Unbraced
Bracing Bracing

Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)

16 24 16 24 16 24

350S162-33 8′-0″ 6′-5″ 9′-2″ 7′-5″ 9′-11″ 7′-5″

350S162-43 8′-11″ 7′-8″ 10′-9″ 8′-9″ 10′-0″ 9′-6″

350S162-54 9′-7″ 8′-7″ 11′-7″ 10′-2″ 11′-7″ 10′-2″

350S162-68 10′-4″ 9′-3″ 12′-5″ 10′-10″ 12′-5″ 10′-10″

 550S162-33 9′-5″ 6′-11″ 10′-5″ 6′-11″ 10′-5″ 6′-11″

550S162-43 10′-2″ 9′-2″ 14′-2″ 11′-8″ 15′-2″ 11′-8″

10′-
550S162-54 9′-9″ 15′-7″ 14′-0″ 16′-7″ 14′-5″
10″

550S162-68 11′-8″ 10′-5″ 16′-7″ 14′-10″ 17′-9″ 15′-6″

800S162-33 — — — — — —

800S162-43 11′-4″ 10′-2″ 16′-1″ 11′-0″ 16′-6″ 11′-0″

10′-
800S162-54 12′-0″ 17′-4″ 15′-7″ 18′-7″ 17′-7″
10″

12′-
800S162-68 11′-6″ 18′-6″ 16′-7″ 19′-11″ 18′-11″
10″

1000S162-43 — — — — — —

12′-
1000S162-54 11′-7″ 18′-5″ 16′-6″ 19′-8″ 18′-8″
10″

1000S162-68 13′-8″ 12′-3″ 19′-8″ 17′-9″ 21′-1″ 20′-1″

1200S162-43 — — — — — —

1200S162-54 — — — — — —

12′-
1200S162-68 14′-5″ 20′-9″ 18′-7″ 22′-0″ 21′-0″
11″
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
1. a.Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
2. b.Ceiling deal load = 5 psf.
3. c.Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil
thicknesses.
4. d.Listed allowable spans are not applicable for 350S162-33, 350S162-43, 550S162-33, 550S162-43 and 800S162-43 continuous joist
members.

TABLE R804.3.1.1(3)
NUMBER OF SCREWS REQUIRED FOR CEILING JOIST TO ROOF RAFTER
CONNECTIONa
NUMBER OF SCREWS

Building width (feet)

ROOF
SLOPE
24 28 32 36 40

Ground snow load (psf)

 20 30 50 70 20 30 50 70 20 30 50 70 20 30 50 70 20 30 50 70

3/12 5 6 9 11 5 7 10 13 6 8 11 15 7 8 13 17 8 9 14 19

4/12 4 5 7 9 4 5 8 10 5 6 9 12 5 7 10 13 6 7 11 14

5/12 3 4 6 7 4 4 6 8 4 5 7 10 5 5 8 11 5 6 9 12

6/12 3 3 5 6 3 4 6 7 4 4 6 8 4 5 7 9 4 5 8 10

7/12 3 3 4 6 3 3 5 7 3 4 6 7 4 4 6 8 4 5 7 9

8/12 2 3 4 5 3 3 5 6 3 4 5 7 3 4 6 8 4 4 6 8

9/12 2 3 4 5 3 3 4 6 3 3 5 6 3 4 5 7 3 4 6 8

10/12 2 2 4 5 2 3 4 5 3 3 5 6 3 3 5 7 3 4 6 7

11/12 2 2 3 4 2 3 4 5 3 3 4 6 3 3 5 6 3 4 5 7

12/12 2 2 3 4 2 3 4 5 2 3 4 5 3 3 5 6 3 4 5 7

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479kPa.
1. a.Screws shall be No. 10.
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.1.1
JOIST TO RAFTER CONNECTION
R804.3.1.2Ceiling joist bottom flange bracing.
The bottom flanges of ceiling joists shall be laterally braced by the application of gypsum board
or continuous steel straps installed perpendicular to the joist run in accordance with one of the
following:
1. 1.Gypsum board shall be fastened with No. 6 screws in accordance with Section R702.
2. 2.Steel straps with a minimum size of 11/2 inches by 33 mils (38 mm by 0.84 mm) shall be
installed at a maximum spacing of 4 feet (1219 mm). Straps shall be fastened to the bottom
flange at each joist with one No. 8 screw and shall be fastened to blocking with two No. 8
screws. Blocking shall be installed between joists at a maximum spacing of 12 feet (3658 mm)
measured along a line of continuous strapping (perpendicular to the joist run), and at the
termination of all straps.
R804.3.1.3Ceiling joist top flange bracing.
The top flanges of ceiling joists shall be laterally braced as required by Tables R804.3.1.1(1) and
R804.3.1.1(2), in accordance with one of the following:
1. 1.Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) C-shaped member in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.3(1).
2. 2.Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) track section in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.3(1).
3. 3.Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) hat section in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.3(1).
4. 4.Minimum 54-mil (1.37 mm) 11/2-inch (38 mm) cold-rolled channel section in accordance
with Figure R804.3.1.3(1).
5. 5.Minimum 11/2-inch by 33-mil (38 mm by 0.84 mm) continuous steel strap in accordance with
Figure R804.3.1.3(2).
Lateral bracing shall be installed perpendicular to the ceiling joists and shall be fastened to the
top flange of each joist with one No. 8 screw. Blocking shall be installed between joists in line
with bracing at a maximum spacing of 12 feet (3658 mm) measured perpendicular to the joists.
Ends of lateral bracing shall be attached to blocking or anchored to a stable building component
with two No. 8 screws.

FIGURE R804.3.1.3(1)
CEILING JOIST TOP FLANGE BRACING WITH C-SHAPED, TRACK OR COLD-
ROLLED CHANNEL

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

 FIGURE R804.3.1.3(2)
CEILING JOIST TOP FLANGE BRACING WITH CONTINUOUS STEEL STRAP AND
BLOCKING
R804.3.1.4Ceiling joist splicing.
Splices in ceiling joists shall be permitted, if ceiling joist splices are supported at interior bearing
points and are constructed in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.4. The number of screws on each
side of the splice shall be the same as required for the heel joint connection in Table R804.3.1.1(3).

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

FIGURE R804.3.1.4
SPLICED CEILING JOISTS
R804.3.2Roof rafters.
Cold-formed steel roof rafters shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.3.2.1Minimum roof rafter sizes.
Roof rafter size and thickness shall be determined in accordance with the limits set forth in Table
R804.3.2.1(1) based on the horizontal projection of the roof rafter span. For determination of roof
rafter sizes, reduction of roof spans shall be permitted where a roof rafter support brace is installed
in accordance with Section R804.3.2.2. The reduced roof rafter span shall be taken as the larger of
the distances from the roof rafter support brace to the ridge or to the heel measured horizontally.
For the purpose of determining roof rafter sizes in Table R804.3.2.1(1), ultimate design wind
speeds shall be converted to equivalent ground snow loads in accordance with Table
R804.3.2.1(2). Roof rafter sizes shall be based on the higher of the ground snow load or the
equivalent snow load converted from the ultimate design wind speed.
TABLE R804.3.2.1(1)
ROOF RAFTER SPANSa, b, c, d
ALLOWABLE SPAN MEASURED
HORIZONTALLY (feet - inches)

Ground snow load (psf)

MEMBERDESIGNATION
20 30 50 70

Rafter spacing (inches)

16 24 16 24 16 24 16 24

13′- 11′- 11′-

550S162-33 9′-7″ 9′-5″ 7′-8″ 8′-1″ 6′-7″
11″ 4″ 9″

15′- 13′- 14′- 11′- 11′- 7′-

550S162-43 9′-3″ 9′-9″
9″ 8″ 3″ 8″ 4″ 11″

16′- 14′- 15′- 13′- 13′- 11′- 12′- 10′-

550S162-54
11″ 10″ 3″ 4″ 3″ 7″ 0″ 6″

18′- 15′- 16′- 14′- 14′- 12′- 12′- 11′-

550S162-68
2″ 10″ 5″ 4″ 3″ 5″ 11″ 3″

16′- 13′- 13′- 11′- 11′-

800S162-33 9′-0″ 9′-6″ 6′-7″
4″ 4″ 11″ 4″ 1″

19′- 16′- 16′- 13′- 13′- 10′- 11′-

800S162-43 9′-4″
7″ 0″ 8″ 7″ 4″ 10″ 5″

22′- 19′- 20′- 17′- 17′- 15′- 12′-

800S162-54 4′-9″
9″ 11″ 7″ 11″ 10″ 6″ 7″

24′- 21′- 22′- 19′- 19′- 16′- 17′- 14′-

800S162-68
7″ 6″ 2″ 5″ 3″ 10″ 5″ 8″

22′- 18′- 18′- 15′- 15′- 12′- 12′- 10′-

1000S162-43
2″ 1″ 10″ 4″ 1″ 4″ 11″ 7″

27′- 23′- 24′- 20′- 20′- 16′- 17′- 14′-

1000S162-54
1″ 8″ 6″ 9″ 5″ 8″ 6″ 3″

29′- 25′- 26′- 23′- 23′- 19′- 20′- 16′-

1000S162-68
5″ 8″ 6″ 2″ 0″ 6″ 6″ 9″
 31′- 27′- 28′- 22′- 22′- 18′- 19′- 15′-
1200S162-54
3″ 0″ 1″ 11″ 6″ 4″ 4″ 9″

34′- 29′- 30′- 26′- 26′- 21′- 22′- 18′-

1200S162-68
0″ 8″ 8″ 9″ 6″ 7″ 8″ 6″

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
1. a.Table provides maximum horizontal rafter spans in feet and inches for slopes between 3:12 and 12:12.
2. b.Deflection criteria: L/240 for live loads and L/180 for total loads.
3. c.Roof dead load = 12 psf.
4. d.Grade 33 ksi steel is permitted to be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.

TABLE R804.3.2.1(2)
ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED TO EQUIVALENT SNOW LOAD CONVERSION
ULTIMATE WIND EQUIVALENT GROUND SNOW LOAD (psf)
SPEEDAND
EXPOSURE Roof slope

Wind
Exposure 3:12 4:12 5:12 6:12 7:12 8:12 9:12 10:12 11:12 12:12
speed(mph)

115 20 20 20 20 30 20 30 30 30 50

120 20 20 20 20 30 30 30 30 30 50
B

130 20 20 20 20 30 30 30 50 50 50

<140 20 20 20 20 30 50 50 50 50 50

115 20 20 20 20 30 30 30 50 50 50

120 20 20 20 20 30 30 50 50 50 50
C
130 20 20 20 30 30 50 50 50 50 70

<140 30 30 30 50 50 50 70 70 70 —

For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
R804.3.2.1.1Eave overhang.
Eave overhangs shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) measured horizontally.
R804.3.2.1.2Rake overhangs.
Rake overhangs shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) measured horizontally. Outlookers at gable
endwalls shall be installed in accordance with Figure R804.3.2.1.2.

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

FIGURE R804.3.2.1.2
GABLE ENDWALL OVERHANG DETAILS
R804.3.2.2Roof rafter support brace.
Where used to reduce roof rafter spans in determining roof rafter sizes, a roof rafter support brace
shall meet all of the following conditions:
1. 1.Minimum 350S162-33 C-shaped brace member with maximum length of 8 feet (2438 mm).
2. 2.Minimum brace member slope of 45 degrees (0.785 rad) to the horizontal.
3. 3.Minimum connection of brace to a roof rafter and ceiling joist with four No.10 screws at
each end.
4. 4.Maximum 6 inches (152 mm) between brace/ceiling joist connection and load-bearing wall
below.
5. 5.Each roof rafter support brace greater than 4 feet (1219 mm) in length, shall be braced with
a supplemental brace having a minimum size of 350S162-33 or 350T162-33 such that the
 maximum unsupported length of the roof rafter support brace is 4 feet (1219 mm). The
supplemental brace shall be continuous and shall be connected to each roof rafter support brace
using two No. 8 screws.
R804.3.2.3Roof rafter splice.
Roof rafters shall not be spliced.
R804.3.2.4Roof rafter to ceiling joist and ridge member connection.
Roof rafters shall be connected to a parallel ceiling joist to form a continuous tie between exterior
walls in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.1 and Table R804.3.1.1(3). Ceiling joists shall be
connected to the top track of the load-bearing wall in accordance with Table R804.3, either with
the required number of No. 10 screws applied through the flange of the ceiling joist or by using a
54-mil (1.37 mm) clip angle with the required number of No.10 screws in each leg. Roof rafters
shall be connected to a ridge member with a minimum 2-inch by 2-inch (51 mm by 51 mm) clip
angle fastened with No. 10 screws to the ridge member in accordance with Figure R804.3.2.4 and
Table R804.3.2.4. The clip angle shall have a steel thickness equivalent to or greater than the roof
rafter thickness and shall extend the depth of the roof rafter member to the extent possible. The
ridge member shall be fabricated from a C-shaped member and a track section that shall have a
minimum size and steel thickness equivalent to or greater than that of adjacent roof rafters and
shall be installed in accordance with Figure R804.3.2.4. The ridge member shall extend the full
depth of the sloped roof rafter cut.

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

FIGURE R804.3.2.4
RIDGE MEMBER CONNECTION
TABLE R804.3.2.4
SCREWS REQUIRED AT EACH LEG OF CLIP ANGLE FOR ROOF RAFTER TO
RIDGE MEMBER CONNECTIONa
NUMBER OF SCREWS
BUILDING WIDTH (feet)
Ground snow load (psf)
 0 to 20 21 to 30 31 to 50 51 to 70

24 2 2 3 4

28 2 3 4 5

32 2 3 4 5

36 3 3 5 6

40 3 4 5 7

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
1. a.Screws shall be No. 10 minimum.
R804.3.2.5Roof rafter bottom flange bracing.
The bottom flanges of roof rafters shall be continuously braced, at a maximum spacing of 8 feet
(2440 mm) as measured parallel to the roof rafters, with one of the following members:
1. 1.Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) C-shaped member.
2. 2.Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) track section.
3. 3.Minimum 11/2-inch by 33-mil (38 mm by 0.84 mm) steel strap.
The bracing element shall be fastened to the bottom flange of each roof rafter with one No. 8 screw
and shall be fastened to blocking with two No. 8 screws. Blocking shall be installed between roof
rafters in-line with the continuous bracing at a maximum spacing of 12 feet (3658 mm) measured
perpendicular to the roof rafters. The ends of continuous bracing shall be fastened to blocking or
anchored to a stable building component with two No. 8 screws.
R804.3.3Cutting and notching.
Flanges and lips of load-bearing, cold-formed steel roof framing members shall not be cut or
notched.
R804.3.4Headers.
Roof-ceiling framing above wall openings shall be supported on headers. The allowable spans for
headers in load-bearing walls shall not exceed the values set forth in Section R603.6 and Tables
R603.6(1) through R603.6(6).
R804.3.5Framing of openings in roofs and ceilings.
Openings in roofs and ceilings shall be framed with header and trimmer joists. Header joist spans
shall not exceed 4 feet (1219 mm) in length. Header and trimmer joists shall be fabricated from
joist and track members having a minimum size and thickness equivalent to the adjacent ceiling
joists or roof rafters and shall be installed in accordance with Figures R804.3.5(1) and R804.3.5(2).
Each header joist shall be connected to trimmer joists with not less than four 2-inch by 2-inch (51
by 51 mm) clip angles. Each clip angle shall be fastened to both the header and trimmer joists with
four No. 8 screws, evenly spaced, through each leg of the clip angle. The steel thickness of the clip
angles shall be not less than that of the ceiling joist or roof rafter. Each track section for a built-up
header or trimmer joist shall extend the full length of the joist (continuous).

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

FIGURE R804.3.5(1)
ROOF OR CEILING OPENING

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

 FIGURE R804.3.5(2)
HEADER TO TRIMMER CONNECTION
R804.3.6Roof trusses.
Cold-formed steel trusses shall be designed and installed in accordance with AISI S240. In the
absence of specific bracing requirements, trusses shall be braced in accordance with accepted
industry practices, such as the SBCA Cold-Formed Steel Building Component Safety Information
(CFSBCSI) Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing & Bracing of Cold-Formed Steel
Trusses. Trusses shall be connected to the top track of the load-bearing wall in accordance with
Table R804.3, either with two No. 10 screws applied through the flange of the truss or by using a
54-mil (1.37 mm) clip angle with two No. 10 screws in each leg.
R804.3.7Ceiling and roof diaphragms.
Ceiling and roof diaphragms shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.3.7.1Ceiling diaphragms.
At gable endwalls a ceiling diaphragm shall be provided by attaching a minimum 1/2-inch (12.7
mm) gypsum board or a minimum 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) wood structural panel sheathing, that complies
with Section R803, to the bottom of ceiling joists or roof trusses and connected to wall framing in
accordance with Figures R804.3.7.1(1) and R804.3.7.1(2), unless studs are designed as full height
without bracing at the ceiling. Flat blocking shall consist of C-shaped or track section with a
minimum thickness of 33 mils (0.84 mm). For a gypsum board sheathed ceiling, the diaphragm
length shall be in accordance with Table R804.3.7.1. For a wood structural panel sheathed ceiling,
the diaphragm length shall be not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) for building widths less than 36 feet
(10 973 mm), or not less than 14 feet (4267 mm) for building widths greater than or equal to 36
feet (10 973 mm).
The ceiling diaphragm shall be secured with screws spaced at a maximum 6 inches (152 mm)
o.c. at panel edges and a maximum 12 inches (305 mm) o.c. in the field. The required lengths in
Table R804.3.7.1 for gypsum board sheathed ceiling diaphragms shall be permitted to be
multiplied by 0.35 if all panel edges are blocked. Multiplying the required lengths in Table
R804.3.7.1 for gypsum board sheathed ceiling diaphragms by 0.9 shall be permitted if all panel
edges are secured with screws spaced at 4 inches (102 mm) o.c.
TABLE R804.3.7.1
REQUIRED LENGTHS FOR CEILING DIAPHRAGMS AT GABLE ENDWALLS
GYPSUM BOARD SHEATHED, CEILING HEIGHT = 8 FEETa, b, c, d, e, f, g
ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED
EXPOSURE CATEGORY
(mph)

B 115 120 130 < 140 — —

C — — 115 120 130 < 140

Building endwall Minimum diaphragm

Roof pitch
width (feet) length (feet)

24 - 28 16 18 24 26 30 34
3:12to6:12
> 28 - 32 20 20 26 32 34 40
 > 32 - 36 24 26 30 36 42 46

> 36 - 40 26 28 36 40 48 52

> 24 - 28 20 20 26 30 34 38

> 28 - 32 24 26 30 36 42 46
6:12to9:12
> 32 - 36 26 30 38 42 48 54

> 36 - 40 30 34 40 50 56 62

> 24 - 28 22 24 30 34 38 44

> 28 - 32 26 28 36 40 46 52
9:12to12:12
> 32 - 36 30 32 40 48 54 62

> 36 - 40 36 38 48 56 64 72
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
1. a.Ceiling diaphragm is composed of 1/2-inch gypsum board (min. thickness) secured with screws spaced at 6 inches o.c. at panel edges and
12 inches o.c. infield. Use No. 8 screws (min.) where framing members have a designation thickness of 54 mils or less and No. 10 screws
(min.) where framing members have a designation thickness greater than 54 mils.
2. b.Maximum aspect ratio (length/width) of diaphragms is 2:1.
3. c.Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
4. d.Required diaphragm lengths are to be provided at each end of the structure.
5. e.Multiplying required diaphragm lengths by 0.35 is permitted if all panel edges are blocked.
6. f.Multiplying required diaphragm lengths by 0.9 is permitted if all panel edges are secured with screws spaced at 4 inches o.c.
7. g.To determine the minimum diaphragm length for buildings with ceiling heights of 9 feet or 10 feet values in this table shall be multiplied
by 1.15.

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

FIGURE R804.3.7.1(1)
CEILING DIAPHRAGM TO GABLE ENDWALL DETAIL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.7.1(2)
CEILING DIAPHRAGM TO SIDEWALL DETAIL
R804.3.7.2Roof diaphragm.
A roof diaphragm shall be provided by attaching not less than 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) wood structural
panel that complies with Section R803 to roof rafters or truss top chords in accordance with Table
R804.3. Buildings with 3:1 or larger plan aspect ratio and with roof rafter slope (pitch) of 9:12 or
larger shall have the roof rafters and ceiling joists blocked in accordance with Figure R804.3.7.2.
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.7.2
ROOF BLOCKING DETAIL
R804.3.8Roof tie-down.
Roof assemblies shall be connected to walls below in accordance with Table R804.3. A continuous
load path shall be provided to transfer uplift loads to the foundation.
SECTIONR805
CEILING FINISHES
R805.1Ceiling installation.
Ceilings shall be installed in accordance with the requirements for interior wall finishes as
provided in Section R702.
 SECTIONR806

ROOF VENTILATION
R806.1Ventilation required.
Enclosed attics and enclosed rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applied directly to the
underside of roof rafters shall have cross ventilation for each separate space by ventilating
openings protected against the entrance of rain or snow. Ventilation openings shall have a least
dimension of 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) minimum and 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum. Ventilation openings
having a least dimension larger than 1/4inch (6.4 mm) shall be provided with corrosion-resistant
wire cloth screening, hardware cloth, perforated vinyl or similar material with openings having
a least dimension of 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) minimum and 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum. Openings in roof
framing members shall conform to the requirements of Section R802.7. Required ventilation
openings shall open directly to the outside air and shall be protected to prevent the entry of birds,
rodents, snakes and other similar creatures.
R806.2Minimum vent area.
The minimum net free ventilating area shall be 1/150 of the area of the vented space.
Exception: The minimum net free ventilation area shall be 1/300 of the vented space provided
both of the following conditions are met:
1. 1.In Climate Zones 6, 7 and 8, a Class I or II vapor retarder is installed on the warm-in-
winter side of the ceiling.
2. 2.Not less than 40 percent and not more than 50 percent of the required ventilating area is
provided by ventilators located in the upper portion of the attic or rafter space. Upper
ventilators shall be located not more than 3 feet (914 mm) below the ridge or highest point
of the space, measured vertically. The balance of the required ventilation provided shall be
located in the bottom one-third of the attic space. Where the location of wall or roof
framing members conflicts with the installation of upper ventilators, installation more than
3 feet (914 mm) below the ridge or highest point of the space shall be permitted.
R806.3Vent and insulation clearance.
Where eave or cornice vents are installed, blocking, bridging and insulation shall not block the
free flow of air. Not less than a 1-inch (25 mm) space shall be provided between the insulation and
the roof sheathing and at the location of the vent.
R806.4Installation and weather protection.
Ventilators shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Installation of
ventilators in roof systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section R903.
Installation of ventilators in wall systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section
R703.1.
R806.5Unvented attic and unvented enclosed rafter assemblies.
Unvented attics and unvented enclosed roof framing assemblies created by ceilings that are
applied directly to the underside of the roof framing members and structural roof sheathing applied
directly to the top of the roof framing members/rafters, shall be permitted where all the following
conditions are met:
1. 1.The unvented attic space is completely within the building thermal envelope.
2. 2.Interior Class I vapor retarders are not installed on the ceiling side (attic floor) of the
unvented attic assembly or on the ceiling side of the unvented enclosed roof framing assembly.
3. 3.Where wood shingles or shakes are used, a minimum 1/4-inch (6.4 mm) vented airspace
separates the shingles or shakes and the roofing underlayment above the structural sheathing.
4. 4.In Climate Zones 5, 6, 7 and 8, any air-impermeable insulation shall be a Class II vapor
retarder, or shall have a Class II vapor retarder coating or covering in direct contact with the
underside of the insulation.
5. 5.Insulation shall comply with Item 5.3 and either Item 5.1 or 5.2:
1. 5.1.Item 5.1.1, 5.1.2, 5.1.3 or 5.1.4 shall be met, depending on the air permeability of the
insulation directly under the structural roof sheathing.
1. 5.1.1.Where only air-impermeable insulation is provided, it shall be applied in direct
contact with the underside of the structural roof sheathing.
2. 5.1.2.Where air-permeable insulation is installed directly below the structural sheathing,
rigid board or sheet insulation shall be installed directly above the structural roof sheathing
in accordance with the R-values in Table R806.5 for condensation control.
3. 5.1.3.Where both air-impermeable and air-permeable insulationare provided, the air-
impermeable insulation shall be applied in direct contact with the underside of the
structural roof sheathing in accordance with Item 5.1.1 and shall be in accordance with
the R-values in Table R806.5 for condensation control. The air-permeable insulation shall
be installed directly under the air-impermeable insulation.
4. 5.1.4.Alternatively, sufficient rigid board or sheet insulation shall be installed directly above
the structural roof sheathing to maintain the monthly average temperature of the underside
of the structural roof sheathing above 45°F (7°C). For calculation purposes, an interior air
temperature of 68°F (20°C) is assumed and the exterior air temperature is assumed to be
the monthly average outside air temperature of the three coldest months.
2. 5.2.In Climate Zones 1, 2 and 3, air-permeable insulation installed in unvented attics shall
meet the following requirements:
1. 5.2.1.An approved vapor diffusion port shall be installed not more than 12 inches (305 mm)
from the highest point of the roof, measured vertically from the highest point of the roof to
the lower edge of the port.
2. 5.2.2.The port area shall be greater than or equal to 1:600 of the ceiling area. Where there
are multiple ports in the attic, the sum of the port areas shall be greater than or equal to the
area requirement.
3. 5.2.3.The vapor-permeable membrane in the vapor diffusion port shall have a vapor
permeance rating of greater than or equal to 20 perms when tested in accordance with
Procedure A of ASTM E96.
4. 5.2.4.The vapor diffusion port shall serve as an air barrier between the attic and the exterior
of the building.
5. 5.2.5.The vapor diffusion port shall protect the attic against the entrance of rain and snow.
6. 5.2.6.Framing members and blocking shall not block the free flow of water vapor to the
port. Not less than a 2-inch (51 mm) space shall be provided between any blocking and the
roof sheathing. Air-permeable insulation shall be permitted within that space.
7. 5.2.7.The roof slope shall be greater than or equal to 3:12 (vertical/horizontal).
8. 5.2.8.Where only air-permeable insulation is used, it shall be installed directly below the
structural roof sheathing.
 9. 5.2.9.Air-impermeable insulation, if any, shall be directly above or below the structural roof
sheathing and is not required to meet the R-value in Table 806.5. Where directly below the
structural roof sheathing, there shall be no space between the air-impermeable
insulation and air-permeable insulation.
10. 5.2.10.The air shall be supplied at a flow rate greater than or equal to 50 CFM (23.6 L/s) per
1,000 square feet (93 m2) of ceiling. The air shall be supplied from ductwork providing
supply air to the occupiable space when the conditioning system is operating. Alternatively,
the air shall be supplied by a supply fan when the conditioning system is operating.
3. 5.3.Where preformed insulation board is used as the air-impermeable insulation layer, it shall
be sealed at the perimeter of each individual sheet interior surface to form a continuous layer.
TABLE R806.5
INSULATION FOR CONDENSATION CONTROL
MINIMUM RIGID BOARDON AIR-
CLIMATE ZONE
IMPERMEABLEINSULATION R-VALUEa, b

2B and 3B tile roof

0 (none required)
only

1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B,

R-5
3C

4C R-10

4A, 4B R-15

5 R-20

6 R-25

7 R-30

8 R-35

1. a.Contributes to but does not supersede the requirements in Section N1102.

2. b.Alternatively, sufficient continuous insulation shall be installed directly above the structural roof sheathing to maintain the monthly average
temperature of the underside of the structural roof sheathing above 45°F (7°C). For calculation purposes, an interior air temperature of 68°F
(20°C) is assumed and the exterior air temperature is assumed to be the monthly average outside air temperature of the three coldest months.
 SECTIONR807
ATTIC ACCESS
R807.1Attic access.
Buildings with combustible ceiling or roof construction shall have an attic access opening
to attic areas that have a vertical height of 30 inches (762 mm) or greater over an area of not less
than 30 square feet (2.8 m2). The vertical height shall be measured from the top of the ceiling
framing members to the underside of the roof framing members.
The rough-framed opening shall be not less than 22 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm)
and shall be located in a hallway or other location with ready access. Where located in a wall, the
opening shall be not less than 22 inches wide by 30 inches high (559 mm wide by 762 mm high).
Where the access is located in a ceiling, minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall
be 30 inches (762 mm) at some point above the access measured vertically from the bottom of
ceiling framing members. See Section M1305.1.3 for access requirements where
mechanical equipment is located in attics.