Without support from roof trusses, your roofing system wouldn’t be able to protect your home from the elements. What is a roof truss? And, why is it an important part of your roofing system?
Basic Components of a Roof Truss
A roof truss is a joint framed structure that provides support for your roof’s inclined, vertical and horizontal loads. A roof truss has three main components: the top chords (which establish the upper portion of the roof truss), the bottom chords (as the name suggests, they form the lowest part of the roof truss) and web bracing (this component makes sure the rafters provide enough support). To ensure the roof truss provides stable support for your roof, they’re usually made from either wood or metal, two rigid but lightweight materials.
Why Use Roof Trusses Instead of Other Forms of Structural Support?
Compared to other traditional roof structures, roof trusses are easier to assemble and transport through different locations, arguably making them the most practical choice.
Different Types of Roof Trusses
What are the different types of roof trusses?
- Howe truss – Wooden and metal Howe trusses have a wide coverage of 20 to 98 feet.
- Fan truss – Steel fan trusses, which have a span of 33 to 50 feet, are one of the simpler designs.
- North light roof truss – North light roof trusses are one of the oldest and most cost-effective types of trusses. They’re often used in industrial structures and large spaces and have a coverage of 20 to 30 meters.
To learn more about the different types of trusses and which one is best suited to your home, consult an experienced roofer.
Looking for roofers near you?
Willi Roofing Services, a company with nearly two decades of experience, offers a wide range of professional roofing services. To get a free estimate, call us at (512) 394-8234, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Round Rock as well as the surrounding communities.
