Roof Truss Versus Rafter

It s also simpler to accommodate a home addition with rafter roofing.

Roof truss versus rafter.

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. 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. When the cost of a prefabricated truss package is compared to the material and labor costs to build rafters on site the cost of trusses is 30 to 50 less. As a result you can create open space under the roof.

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. While rafters are less and less frequently used today due to the higher cost of rafters vs trusses they do have certain advantages. When it comes to quality there really is no difference between rafters and roof trusses. So your decision to use one over another really comes down to cost.

Rafters cost more than trusses as their installation process is labor intensive. 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. Trusses are prefabricated roof structures whereas rafters are assembled on site. Truss pros build quality strength cost and time savings are the biggest pros that trusses have to offer.

Trusses and rafters are both assembled ahead of being installed onto the roof. On the other hand rafters are assembled at the construction site. Each system has its benefits and drawbacks when it comes to these factors. Deciding on whether to install roof rafters or trusses hinges on two important factors.

Stick framing is flexible and may be altered without compromising the structure. 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. Which do you have. As trusses are assembled in a factory a lot of time can be saved.

Roof rafters vs trusses written by doityourself staff. Trusses are assembled in a factory using pre engineered structures and joints. 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 feb 25 2010.