Ridge Board or Beam

[Jackhammer]

With a 16' span what purpose does the ridge beam play? Is it merely cosmetic or does it really play a vital role? It was my understanding that the two rafters meeting at the ridge transferred the load to the top plate and so on.

[Cole]

You are right about it transferring the load down to the plate which eventually goes to the foundation.

A ridge board would be fine, ( 2X10, 2X12 )

I only use a ridge beam when the span is over 25'.

[Jackhammer]

Developer, thanks for the info. I am constructing a gambrel roof design on my 16'X20' storage building. I wasn't wanting to use a ridge beam unless it was necessary. I will have an 8' loft on each end supported by 2'X8' sitting atop the top plate. Will this help in reducing the stress to the walls? I am curious to know why you only use a ridge beam when the span is over 25'.