Roof Truss Versus Rafter

Trusses are prefabricated roof structures whereas rafters are assembled on site.

Roof truss versus rafter.

On the other hand rafters are assembled at the construction site. Rafters cost more than trusses as their installation process is labor intensive. 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. Truss pros build quality strength cost and time savings are the biggest pros that trusses have to offer.

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. Unless you are going for an exposed rafter look the end result will be the same whether you go with roof trusses or rafters. Roof rafters vs trusses written by doityourself staff. Trusses are assembled in a factory using pre engineered structures and joints.

When it comes to quality there really is no difference between rafters and roof trusses. On feb 25 2010. While rafters are less and less frequently used today due to the higher cost of rafters vs trusses they do have certain advantages. 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.

Stick framing is flexible and may be altered without compromising the structure. Deciding on whether to install roof rafters or trusses hinges on two important factors. As trusses are prefabricated they may be costlier than rafters however the installation and labor cost involved in roof rafters is comparatively higher than trusses. As a result you can create open space under the roof.

Each system has its benefits and drawbacks when it comes to these factors. It s also simpler to accommodate a home addition with rafter roofing. Trusses and rafters are both assembled ahead of being installed onto the roof. Trusses are composed of multiple beams for added support.

So your decision to use one over another really comes down to cost. Which do you have. Unlike rafters which must be made on site roof trusses are prefabricated in a warehouse and then shipped to a job site for installation. As trusses are assembled in a factory a lot of time can be saved.