Hi guys!
My wife and I are putting together plans for a shed on some property we visit a few times a year. We're planning a Gambrel roof 12x16, and looking to do 2x6s for the trusses. I've got this cut list from the internet that's super helpful, but is based around 2x4s.
I can stick wood together but I'm not great at the maths on it. How much do I need to change to account for the thicker lumber?
Jk - think I've got the right online Calculator!
Does that calculator use nominal or actual sizes? I noticed you input 6" in rafter depth. A 2x6 is actually anywhere from 5.25-5.5".
Still, it shouldn't matter much. That picture of the Gambrel they are giving you dimensions on the long side of the angled cuts, so it shouldn't affect your cuts. If they were giving you dimensions to the lower edge, you would have to alter the lengths.
I built the same shed a few years ago. Pretty sure I used the exact same plans. I used 2x4's, and it's solid as a rock. I don't see an advantage to going to 2x6's. If anything, they would get in the way of attic storage space. I made a few changes to mine. Shortened to 14' so that I didn't need a permit in my area. I put the doors on both ends- very, very highly recommended, makes access so much easier, nothing gets buried in the back. I added a large attic for overhead storage, and built "hanging" shelves on one side that don't go to the floor. Enough room underneath for the lawnmower and other equipment to be stored underneath. I'm very, very happy with the build, way better than anything I could have bought for a fraction of the price.
A couple other tips. I used the plywood that had the foil heat barrier for the roof. It really keeps the shed much cooler. I lined the inside of the doors and ends of the shed with the same plywood, as the shed points east-west. I also found scafolding to make things much easier when doing the roof. I built this, anchored it to the shed when in use, and used the wood for my shelves when done...
I agree that 2x4's should be plenty for that roof design. 2x6's feel like overkill in that application. Is there a specific concern about the roof? Or do you just have a pile of 2x6's laying around? 
We are building this as a 'crash pad' on FILs property, for when we go camping. He has used 2x6s on the roof so that's what we were planning to do. 12x16 keeps us under permitting needs as well - there's no electrical or water either, at the moment. We're fine overdoing it, I think. Lumber ordered today and we'll build this weekend..
Plan is to do one door on a short side and we'll install windows down the line too. Loft on one end only.
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