Roof Guideline

This tutorial will guide you on how to use the Roof Guidelines.

Roof Design Using Guidelines - Step-by-Step Instructions

Where We Are

You've already completed your walls and gable ends. Now it's time to input your rafters using roof guidelines.

Understanding Line Types First

Before placing roof members, it's important to understand that line types in the DWI program identify different roof elements:

• Eaves
• Gable ends (right and left)
• Ridges

This classification allows guidelines to automatically frame your roof according to your specifications.

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Step 1: Access Roof Design Module

Two ways to get there:

Option A: Click the roof design icon

Option B: Menu path:

• File → Change Building Module → 1-2-6 Roof Design

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Step 2: Construct Using Roof Guidelines

Navigate to:

• 5 Objects
• Roof Guidelines
• 1 to Construct

You'll see a guideline selector. Choose which elements you want to construct:

• Plates
• Rafters
• Purlin

(Note: If you don't have ties in your guideline, you can skip that option)

Select All Roof Sides

The program will now place all members based on your guideline settings.

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Step 3: Review Your Guideline Rules

To see how the guidelines work:

Navigate to:

• 5 Objects
• Manage Settings

Your guideline rules are a combination of settings:

Plates:

• Roof board specifications (size, cut details)
• Extension distance to the outside

Fixed Rafters:

• Verge rafters (can be moved in/out)
• Fascia options
• Other rafter types

Distributed Rafters:

• Spacing: 24" on center (fixed spacing)

Additional Options Available:

• Hip/valley configurations
• Ties
• Blades (various types)
• Support options
• Rafter variations: gable rafter, blind rafter, outset rafter

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Step 4: Add Slender Rafters (Blocking)

Now let's create a ladder at the ends using slender rafters.

Navigate to:

• 5 Objects
• Rafter
• 5-3 Slender Rafter

Or click the slender rafter icon directly.

Select: Rafter blocking

Distribution Method: By two points

1. Select the line (it will be parallel to the edge)
2. Click your first point
3. Click your second point
4. Define distribution range: from bottom to ridge

Spacing Settings:

• Beginning offset: 6"
• End offset: 6"
• Center spacing: 16" O.C.

Click OK

The program places all blocking. Check your rendering to verify placement.

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Step 5: Add Individual Fixed Rafters (As Needed)

If you need additional rafters in specific locations:

Navigate to:

• 5 Objects
• 5 Rafters

Or click the rafter icon directly.

Select: Your rafter size (e.g., 2x8 Rafters)

Choose Fixed Rafter

Click the location where you need the rafter.

The rafter will automatically:

• Cut to the roof board
• Connect properly to other members

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Key Takeaway

Roof guidelines provide an efficient way to generate roofs and detail drawings. However, before effectively using roof guidelines, you need to understand the individual settings for:

• Rafters
• Plates
• Slender rafters

(These individual settings will be covered in upcoming videos)

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Workflow Summary

Overall Process Flow:

1. Create walls
2. Create floor
3. Create roof
4. Place materials using guidelines and individual elements