If your roofing project involves replacing the framing, you’ll eventually get to choose between two types: rafters and trusses. In today’s post, Ken Morton & Sons LLC takes a look between these two types of framing, and shares a quick guide to choosing between them.
Roof framing is essentially the skeleton of the roof. In addition to defining its shape and slope, framing is where the decking is fastened to, which, in turn, is where the rest of the roofing components are fastened to.
Rafters are what one may call the traditional type of framing. They’re made with timber, and are built over the house’s main structure. Several planks are attached to a central ridge beam, much like how ribs are attached to a spinal column. Rafters typically extend beyond the building’s footprint. The overhang, or rafter tails, are covered by the soffits and fascia. The base of the resulting triangle-shaped structure is supported by planks that also serve as framework for the attic floor.
In comparison, trusses are built with materials such as composite, wood or metal. Whereas rafters are built on-site, trusses are prefabricated and can be made ahead of the roof installation date. Trusses are built with a webbed structure that allows more flexibility in terms of shape and design.
One of the things you have to consider is the roofing slope. Rafters require a minimum slope to ensure structural stability, which makes them a great choice for steep-sloped roofs. If you’re looking into getting a low-sloped roof, or if the house has a sprawling footprint, then trusses are the more appropriate type of framing.
If your roof is part of a new construction project, your roofer may offer trusses because it’s more affordable and is more flexible, design-wise. As it can be built ahead of time, trusses can help shorten the installation timeline. However, there’s the matter of transporting the materials. Rafters are generally easier to deliver because they’re just stacks of timber until the roofer starts building them on-site. Trusses typically require larger or specialized trucks because they’re pre-assembled. Lastly, you’ll probably want to lean towards rafters if you are planning on converting the attic into a living space, as steep roofs result in high-ceilinged attics.
Let our team at Ken Morton & Sons LLC help you find the best type of framing for your roof. Give us a call at (856) 582-8800, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We serve Woodstown, NJ, and the surrounding communities.