Ridge Beams vs Ridge Boards: What Every Builder & Engineer Must Know

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In conventional wood framing, few elements cause as much confusion as the ridge board and the ridge beam. Both sit at the peak of a gable roof, but their functions are very different. Misunderstanding this distinction can lead to costly mistakes in construction—or even structural failure under code-level loading.

This video answers the following questions:
1. What is the fundamental difference between a ridge board and a ridge beam in residential roof framing?
2. Why does the International Residential Code (IRC) treat ridge boards as non-structural elements?
3. How do ridge beams function as engineered members, and what loads must they carry?
4. Why are ceiling joists or rafter ties not required in a ridge beam roof system?
5. What role do ceiling joists and rafter ties play in conventional ridge board framing?
7. How does the load path of a ridge beam system transfer forces down to the foundation?
8. What is the correct analogy for understanding conventional ridge board framing (the “ladder against a wall” concept)?
9. Why can’t a ridge board provide vertical support for rafters?
10. What lateral forces exist in conventional ridge board framing, and how are they resisted?

What are the potential risks and failures that can occur if ridge boards and ridge beams are confused in design or construction?

Whether you’re a student of structural engineering, a practicing builder, or an inspector ensuring code compliance, this video will give you the clarity you need to frame safely and correctly.

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📌 On our website, you’ll find in-depth courses and resources covering:

👉 Roof framing and load paths
👉 Floor and wall assemblies
👉 Bracing, beams, and joists according to the IRC
👉 Real-world applications for code-compliant design

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