When building your new house, it is important for you to choose the right roof truss system. This structure is the framework which supports the roofing material. In general, the roof trusses are made using triangular structural units which bridge the gap above the interior spaces and the roof. There are numerous roof trusses in the market to consider for your home construction project. Therefore, the process of choosing the best product for your home can be challenging. Consider these crucial factors before making your decision for a strong and durable roof truss system.

Material

There are two primary materials used in the construction of residential roof trusses: timber and steel. In general, timber trusses are more popular for home building projects because of their numerous advantages. The material is strong and durable and creates a stable framework which can support any type of roofing material. Timber is an easy material to handle, and it can be cut, joined and modified into diverse roof shapes. Steel is a good alternative because the metal is highly resilient. Its strength is higher than that of wood, so you will enjoy prolonged service without the need for repairs. Unfortunately, this metal is harder to install and to form into diverse truss designs. This presents a significant limitation for custom home design.

Prefabricated or Onsite Building

You can choose prefabricated roof trusses, or you can choose to have the framework built onsite. Prefabricated trusses are normally manufactured in a factory setup and then transported to the pertinent worksite for installation. The greatest advantage attached to choosing prefabricated trusses over the alternative is the structural stability and strength. In simple terms, roof trusses which are built in a factory are prepared in a controlled environment. They are also inspected and tested after completion, ensuring optimal performance. Roof trusses built onsite might not achieve the same level of strength. However, they provide more flexibility with regard to design and modifications.

Truss Design

Finally, you should evaluate the different roof truss designs and choose the best type based on your home design plan. Typically, the ultimate selection will be determined by the architectural style of your house, roofing material and even the type of supporting columns. The design options are numerous, but they can be categorised as flat, pitched and bowstring. Bowstring trusses are normally shaped in the shape of a parabola, which promotes efficient weight distribution. Pitched trusses have a central ridge and slopes on both sides, while flat roofs have minimal or no slope.