We understand that every project is unique and our specialist building supplies service takes the headache out of sourcing materials. From bar reinforcement to gabions, floor beams to made-to-measure roof trusses. Roof trusses are made in a variety of shapes and sizes and are a common material amongst many construction professionals.
To help you better understand the shapes and profiles of roof trusses, we’ve broken down the most common trusses used and their applications.
What is a roof truss?
There is often a confusion between rafters and trusses. The difference comes down to where the roof beams are prepared. Trusses are usually designed and constructed in a factory or workshop before being delivered to site and installed. Rafters, however, are beams that are constructed on-site and installed. This comes with its pros and cons. Firstly, rafters can be more expensive and time-consuming but do allow for alterations to the design. Trusses have to be inch-perfect before getting to the site.
Types of roof trusses
1. Attic Truss
The attic truss is sometimes referred to as a ‘room in a roof truss’. This truss employs a simple triangle roof structure with a floor built-in. These trusses make the most of the cavity between the roof and home by adding additional living space. All without having to increase the size of your property’s footprint.
2. Hip Truss
A hip truss is used to construct hipped-end roof shapes. These trusses have a lower profile than regular triangle roofs. They can also be used to create a flat-roofed section where building height may be an issue. Additionally hipped roofs have gentle-sloped with no gables or vertical sides.
3. Raised Tie Truss
Raised tie trusses are the opposite of hip trusses. Where hipped roofs have a low profile, raised tie trusses look to increase vertical space and make homes taller and airier without having to increase the overall height of your building. Raised tie trusses are also often used as features in homes in the form of exposed rafters.
4. Mono Truss
A mono truss, as its name suggests, is one side of a triangle. Trusses are sloped in one direction and are often used for small additions to the home. Such as a small bathroom or scullery. Mono trusses are also used for porches while also helping to form hip end roofing.
5. Raised Tie Truss
Raised tie trusses are used to create sloped angles in rooms. They’re often used when skylight windows are installed to let in natural light. They also often provide extra headroom and space. A raised truss can replace traditional attic space by increasing the volume of a room and doing away with low ceilings.
6. Scissor Truss
A scissor truss resembles a pair of scissors incorporating a raised tie truss with shallower angles. Additionally, they are used as a home design feature. Adding bright, light headroom in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. Trusses have become much more of a feature in the home with industrial design more in chic.
7. Fink Truss
The most common type of truss used in the home is the fink truss. A W-shaped structure supports the triangular-shaped frame which adds strength and integrity. These trusses are used for the majority of roofs. They span well over 5m going up to about 9m in span.
At JTD we stock a wide range of leading materials perfect for all types of homes. As a leading building supplies company, we are experienced in offering general building supplies as well as specialist and bespoke building materials. JTD is driven by friendly staff, experienced insight, and high-quality products and services.
Contact us now to find out how we can help you insulate your home. We complete orders quickly and efficiently to ensure your project stays on track. Whatever your needs, you will find everything at JTD Building Supplies.
