When building or renovating a home, one of the most critical components is the roof structure. Roof trusses provide the essential backbone for your roof, combining both structural support and design versatility. This blog will help homeowners understand:
- What roof trusses are
- Types of trusses
- Associated costs
- Key considerations
What Are Roof Trusses?
Roof trusses are pre-fabricated structures that provide the main support system for your roof. They are engineered using a combination of “top and bottom chords” (the outer edges that form the shape of the truss) and webbing (diagonal support beams). These components ensure structural integrity while holding up the roofing materials. Roof trusses distribute the weight of the roof evenly across your walls, eliminating the need for interior load-bearing walls in many cases.
Whether you’re designing a cozy cottage or a sprawling family home, roof trusses are adaptable and cost-effective, making them the go-to solution in modern construction. Now that you know what they are, let’s explore the different types of trusses available.
Types of Roof Trusses
1. King Post Truss
Simple yet effective, the king post truss is one of the oldest truss designs and is often used for small or modest-sized roofs. Its structure includes a single vertical post in the center, connecting the apex of the truss to the horizontal bottom chord.
Key Features:
- Ideal for spans of up to 16 feet.
- Cost-effective and minimalist in design.
- Provides excellent structural support for straightforward roof shapes.
The king post truss is particularly popular for homes with a classic or rustic style due to its simplicity and efficiency.
2. Girder Truss
The girder truss is known for its heavy-duty capabilities. This type of truss is used to support additional loads or carry extra weight, such as where multiple trusses meet or in areas requiring extra structural reinforcement.
Key Features:
- Typically used in conjunction with other trusses.
- Ideal for roofs with multiple slopes or additional load requirements (e.g., HVAC equipment).
- Offers enhanced structural integrity for complex roofing designs.
If you’re building a larger home with intricate rooflines, the girder truss will likely be part of the final design.
3. Parallel Chord Trusses
Designed for flat or low-slope roofs, parallel chord trusses are a modern alternative to traditional peaked designs. They consist of parallel top and bottom chords connected by a webbing of diagonal braces, creating an open and airy feel.
Key Features:
- Ideal for contemporary homes or vaulted ceilings.
- Provides a strong framework for flat or slightly pitched roofs.
- Allows space for mechanical runs, making it functional for commercial-style designs.
Parallel chord trusses are becoming increasingly popular in green building because of their ability to integrate with energy-efficient roofing systems.
4. Queen Post Truss
A cousin of the king post truss, the queen post truss features two vertical posts instead of one, enabling it to handle slightly wider spans. It is commonly found in traditional-style homes.
Key Features:
- Effective for spans of 16–30 feet.
- Simple yet elegant design, compatible with many architectural styles.
- Adds charm and function while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
5. Scissor Truss
For those seeking dramatic vaulted ceilings, look no further than the scissor truss. This truss utilizes diagonal bottom chords that “scissor” together, leaving space for open, high interior ceilings.
Key Features:
- Creates open, airy indoor spaces.
- Popular in living areas, dining rooms, and great rooms.
- Great for achieving architectural impact while maintaining structural integrity.
Scissor trusses are commonly seen in modern and transitional homes, blending form and function flawlessly.
Costs of Roof Trusses
Roof truss costs can vary widely depending on factors such as materials, labor, and complexity of design. Here’s a general overview to help you plan your budget:
🪵 Material Costs
The majority of roof trusses are constructed using wood, although steel is sometimes used for more industrial applications. Wood trusses typically range between $30–$400 per truss, depending on the size and type. Steel trusses, on the other hand, can cost $150–$500 per truss.
🤔 Design Complexity
More intricate designs, like scissor or girder trusses, naturally come with a higher price tag due to additional labor and materials. Simpler designs, like king or queen post trusses, keep costs to a minimum.
💰 Installation Fees
While the cost of materials is important, don’t forget to budget for installation. Installation fees typically range from $50–$100 per hour, depending on your location and the roofing contractor.
✅ Add-Ons and Extras
Additional features, like weatherproofing, insulated materials, or custom designs, can push up costs. Be sure to discuss your specific needs during the planning phase.
Key Considerations for Roof Trusses
- What is the Size of Your Roof?: The size of your roof directly impacts the type of trusses you’ll need. Larger homes may require girder trusses or multiple truss systems to maintain proper structural integrity.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient homes benefit from parallel chord trusses, as their open framework allows for easy installation of HVAC systems and insulation.
- Roof Shape and Pitch: Certain trusses pair better with specific roof pitches. For example, scissor trusses are perfect for steep, eye-catching designs, while flat roofs often rely on parallel chord trusses.
- Local Building Codes: Consult local building regulations when choosing trusses, as codes may dictate the size and strength required for safety compliance.
Why Young Construction is the Team You Trust
At Young Construction, we know that choosing the right roof trusses can be overwhelming for homeowners. That’s why we’re here to simplify the process for you. With our expert team of roofing professionals, you can rest assured that your roof will be built with structural integrity at its core, using only the highest-quality roofing materials.
Our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service. Whether you’re drawn to parallel chord trusses, king post trusses, or need the custom strength of a girder truss, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we always stay up to date with local building codes to ensure the safety and quality of your home.
Don’t leave your roofing needs to chance. Contact Young Construction today to discuss your project, and explore how we can help you choose the best trusses for your home. Together, we’ll create a roof that’s built to last and looks beautiful for years to come.
