DRP
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# Posted: 24 Dec 2025 09:03pm - Edited by: DRP
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First, no, your homemade beam will not work as a beam, anywhere, anytime, joints must happen over support.
If the framing forms a triangle, then a non structural ridgeboard is fine. If the structure does not form a triangle, then a ridge beam, capable of supporting half the roof load is needed. 20' is a very long span. As BrettNY noted, each end of that beam needs holding up.
Some citations might help with understanding the requirements;
R802.3 Ridge.
A ridge board used to connect opposing rafters shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness and not less in depth than the cut end of the rafter. Where ceiling joist or rafter ties do not provide continuous ties across the structure as required by Section R802.5.2, the ridge shall be supported by a wall or ridge beam designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice and supported on each end by a wall or column.
R802.5 Ceiling joists.
Ceiling joists shall be continuous across the structure or securely joined where they meet over interior partitions in accordance with Section R802.5.2.1. Ceiling joists shall be fastened to the top plate in accordance with Table R602.3(1).
R802.5.2 Ceiling joist and rafter connections.
Where ceiling joists run parallel to rafters and are located in the bottom third of the rafter height, they shall be installed in accordance with Figure R802.4.5 and fastened to rafters in accordance with Table R802.5.2(1). Where the ceiling joists are installed above the bottom third of the rafter height, the ridge shall be designed as a beam in accordance with Section R802.3. Where ceiling joists do not run parallel to rafters, rafters shall be tied across the structure with a rafter tie in accordance with Section R802.5.2.2, or the ridge shall be designed as a beam in accordance with Section R802.3.
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