Types of roof trusses

Choosing the right roof truss is a critical decision when it comes to the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your home. With various designs offering unique benefits, understanding the factors influencing your choice is essential.

Each aspect is crucial in determining the most suitable truss for your requirements, from load-bearing capacity to material selection and roof pitch. In this guide, we'll explore the types of roof trusses available and the factors to consider when selecting the ideal design for your home. Let's dive in!

King post truss

If you're drawn to a classic, traditional look, the king post truss might be the perfect choice for your home. This truss design features a central vertical post (the king post) supporting a horizontal beam, which, in turn, supports the roof's weight. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it popular for smaller structures and residential buildings.

Queen post truss

Consider the queen post truss for a touch of elegance combined with structural stability. This design features two vertical posts (queen posts) supporting a horizontal beam and additional bracing elements. The queen post truss offers increased stability compared to the king post truss, making it suitable for larger spans while maintaining a refined aesthetic.

Howe truss

Symmetry meets strength in the Howe truss, a design characterised by diagonal members angling towards the centre of the truss. This configuration enhances the truss's ability to bear heavy loads, making it suitable for larger structures such as warehouses and industrial buildings. The symmetrical layout provides a balanced appearance, making the Howe truss both functional and visually appealing.

Scissor truss

If you aspire to create spacious, cathedral-like interiors, the scissor truss is an excellent option. This truss design features two bottom chords crossing each other and meeting at an apex, creating a distinctive, inverted 'V' shape.

The scissor trusses allow for higher ceilings and an open, airy feel, making it ideal for spaces where a sense of grandeur is desired, such as churches or residential great rooms.

Gambrel truss

Borrowing its name from the Dutch word "gamba," meaning leg, the gambrel truss is a staple in traditional barn construction. This design combines the stability of a triangular truss with the practicality of a steeper upper slope and a shallower lower pitch.

The result is a shape reminiscent of a horse's hind leg, providing additional space in the attic or upper floor. Gambrel trusses are commonly associated with classic barn aesthetics and are also popular in residential construction for creating charming loft spaces.

Pratt truss

When simplicity meets efficiency, you get the Pratt truss. This design features diagonal members slanting towards the centre and vertical members for added stability. The Pratt truss is known for its straightforward engineering, making it a cost-effective choice for many structures, from residential homes to commercial buildings. Its adaptability and strength have contributed to its popularity in various construction projects.

Fink truss

The Fink truss is worth exploring if versatility and cost-effectiveness are at the forefront of your considerations. This design features a distinctive 'W' shape formed by its top and bottom chords, with diagonal members connecting them.

The Fink truss balances strength and affordability, making it a popular choice for various residential and commercial applications. Its adaptability and efficient use of materials contribute to its widespread use in construction projects of varying scales.

Attic truss

The attic truss is a game-changer for those looking to maximise usable space within their homes. This design incorporates a horizontal chord at the bottom, creating a flat roof ceiling within the truss structure.

The additional space provided by the attic truss is perfect for creating bonus rooms, home offices, or storage areas without compromising the roof's structural integrity. This makes it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking both practicality and functionality.

Bowstring truss

Architectural elegance meets structural strength in the bowstring truss. This design features a curved top chord that gives the truss its characteristic bow shape. Bowstring trusses are often used to construct large-span buildings, such as gymnasiums and aircraft hangars. The curved design adds a hint of sophistication and enhances the truss's ability to support heavy loads over expansive areas.

Parallel chord truss

If a clean, modern aesthetic is what you're after, the parallel chord truss might be the answer. This design features two parallel chords connected by vertical and diagonal members, creating a sleek and minimalist appearance.

The simplicity of the parallel chord truss makes it suitable for contemporary homes and commercial buildings, where a streamlined look is desired without compromising on structural integrity.

Factors when picking roof trusses for your home

Roof design and style

The first consideration on your list should be the design and style of your roof. Different roof designs require specific types of trusses to provide optimal support. Whether you're opting for a gable, hip, or mansard roof, each design has its unique requirements.

Gable roofs, for example, typically use standard trusses, while hip roofs may require a combination of hip and valley trusses. Choose trusses that suit your architectural vision and comply with the structural demands of your chosen roof design.

Load-bearing capacity

Understanding the load-bearing capacity of your roof trusses is vital for ensuring your home's structural integrity. Consider factors such as the local climate, potential snow loads, and any additional loads imposed by features like solar panels or HVAC units.

Your trusses must support both the dead load (the weight of the roof itself) and live loads (external forces such as snow or wind). Engage with a structural engineer to assess your specific requirements and determine the appropriate load-bearing capacity for your roof trusses.

Material selection

Choosing materials for roof trusses contributes significantly to their strength, durability, and overall performance. Steel, wood, and products made of engineered wood are examples of everyday materials. Timber trusses are popular for their natural aesthetic and cost-effectiveness, while steel trusses offer exceptional strength and resistance to pests and decay.

Engineered wood products balance strength and versatility, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL) or glued laminated timber (glulam). Consider your budget, aesthetic preferences, and local building codes when selecting the material for your roof trusses.

Span and spacing

The span and spacing of your roof trusses are critical factors that impact your roof's structural soundness and aesthetics. Trusses with longer spans require more substantial materials to prevent sagging or structural failure. Additionally, the spacing between trusses affects the distribution of weight and the overall stability of your roof.

Consult with an experienced structural engineer to determine the appropriate span and spacing for your specific roof design, considering factors such as local building codes and the load-bearing requirements of your chosen roofing material.

Roof pitch

The pitch or slope of your property roof plays a pivotal role in helping to determine the type of trusses needed. Steeper pitches may require special trusses to provide adequate support and prevent issues like water pooling or snow accumulation.

The pitch also influences the visual appeal of your home, so choose trusses that complement the desired aesthetic of your roof. Discuss your preferences and requirements with your architect or contractor to balance functionality and style.

Cost considerations

One important consideration while making decisions is your money. While cutting costs by opting for simpler or smaller trusses might be tempting, it's crucial to strike a balance between affordability and structural integrity.

Investing in high-quality, well-designed trusses can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future. Obtain quotes from reputable suppliers, considering not just the initial cost but also the long-term value and durability of the chosen trusses.

Use expert roofers to find the right roof truss

As seen in this guide, the world of roof trusses offers a diverse array of options, with each type of roof truss having its unique blend of aesthetic appeal, structural strength, and practicality. When choosing a truss design for your home, consider factors such as architectural style, span requirements, and interior space goals.

Consulting with an experienced structural engineer or architect can help you navigate the complexities of truss selection, ensuring that your chosen design not only enhances the visual appeal of your home but also provides the stability and durability needed to weather the test of time.

Whether you opt for the classic charm of a king post truss or the modern simplicity of a parallel chord truss, contacting a professional roofing company today can help a lot. Go ahead and consult an expert today.