being new to this i can't think of any reason not to rely on the 16 ft maximum and reduce the number of bents to fabricate. but surely it's not that easy...

at present i'm specifically looking at a 24 ft deep high post cape design.

The 16 ft guideline is just a guideline. You can space your bents further apart, but floor joists and tie beams get very large very quickly. How long is your 24 ft building? And is it principal rafter or common rafter?

the floor plan layout called for 45 ft in legnth, but overlaying timber frame designs snd few other factors are having me keep that number loose for now.

as near as i can tell what i'm lookin at is a principal rafter layout. that being the rafters are part of the bent and joined by purlins, whereas a common rafter system is closer to what would top a ballon frame house. and i may be totally off the mark there.

i've not heard anything about rafters systems adtheir realtion to bay spacing, so any leads would be greatly appreciated.

with going over 16 i am assuming there'd be a post at the mid point, which is no problem with my lay out, just checking to be sure.

thanks!