Roof Truss Versus Rafter

As a result you can create open space under the roof.

Roof truss versus rafter.

While rafters are less and less frequently used today due to the higher cost of rafters vs trusses they do have certain advantages. Deciding on whether to install roof rafters or trusses hinges on two important factors. Unlike stick built rafter construction that is done on site most trusses are made in a factory and delivered to the work site ready for installation. For good looks as in the case of vaulted or cathedral ceilings as well as practical purposes like building an extra bedroom home office or storage.

Each system has its benefits and drawbacks when it comes to these factors. Rafters cost more than trusses as their installation process is labor intensive. Trusses are prefabricated roof structures whereas rafters are assembled on site. Trusses and rafters are both assembled ahead of being installed onto the roof.

Unless you are going for an exposed rafter look the end result will be the same whether you go with roof trusses or rafters. On the other hand rafters are assembled at the construction site. Trusses are composed of multiple beams for added support. As trusses are assembled in a factory a lot of time can be saved.

While trusses and rafters can handle similar loads there are clear distinctions in essential areas that will help you choose which is right for your building project. Rafters could take an entire week to be installed whereas trusses could be installed in a day which means trusses could save a lot of time. A typical home roof construction is composed of multiple trusses spaced out evenly over a span extending from one end of the house to the opposite end. Which do you have.

On feb 25 2010. Stick framing is flexible and may be altered without compromising the structure. Roof rafters vs trusses written by doityourself staff. Trusses are assembled in a factory using pre engineered structures and joints.

It s also simpler to accommodate a home addition with rafter roofing. Unlike rafters which must be made on site roof trusses are prefabricated in a warehouse and then shipped to a job site for installation. So your decision to use one over another really comes down to cost. When it comes to quality there really is no difference between rafters and roof trusses.