What ratio is considered safe for cantilevered beams?

A safe ratio for cantilevered beams typically refers to the length of the cantilever compared to its depth. The ratio of 2:1 indicates that for every unit of depth, the cantilever can extend out two units. This ratio is considered conservative and allows for a reasonable balance between performance and safety under various load conditions.

Using a 2:1 ratio ensures that the cantilever will be adequately supported against bending and shear forces, reducing the risk of failure under loads, including live loads and snow loads. In many structural applications, adhering to this ratio also helps to minimize deflection and ensures compliance with building codes and safety standards.

While other ratios, such as 1:1 or 3:1, might be applicable in certain contexts or specific designs, the 2:1 ratio is generally accepted as a standard safety guideline for cantilevered beams, ensuring structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.