Roof Truss Versus Rafter

Truss pros build quality strength cost and time savings are the biggest pros that trusses have to offer.

Roof truss versus rafter. Unlike rafters which must be made on site roof trusses are prefabricated in a warehouse and then shipped to a job site for installation. Deciding on whether to install roof rafters or trusses hinges on two important factors. Trusses are prefabricated roof structures whereas rafters are assembled on site. Which do you have.

So your decision to use one over another really comes down to cost. 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. 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. 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.

When it comes to quality there really is no difference between rafters and roof trusses. As a result you can create open space under the roof. 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. 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.

Each system has its benefits and drawbacks when it comes to these factors. 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. On feb 25 2010. Trusses and rafters are both assembled ahead of being installed onto the roof.

Unless you are going for an exposed rafter look the end result will be the same whether you go with roof trusses or rafters. As trusses are assembled in a factory a lot of time can be saved. Trusses are assembled in a factory using pre engineered structures and joints. Rafters cost more than trusses as their installation process is labor intensive.

Roof rafters vs trusses written by doityourself staff. It s also simpler to accommodate a home addition with rafter roofing. On the other hand rafters are assembled at the construction site. Trusses are composed of multiple beams for added support.