Various Forms of Timber Trusses You Can Use For Roofing

Trusses are components that have been hewn from timber logs and are used in the construction of roofing, flooring, and walls. In addition to the how they enhance the structural integrity of the structure; they also add a sense of aesthetic appeal. Heavy timber trusses can be used exclusively as individual beams. However, to create a thick truss, the construction contractors will typically laminate several pieces of wood together to create one strong beam. Timber trusses are made from a variety of wood species with the most popular options including yellow pine, fir or red cedar. The following are some of the various forms of timber trusses that you can use for your structure's roof.

King post timber trusses

This type of truss is characterised by a vertical post that connects the middle of the tie beam to the ridge of the structure's rafters. This form of timber trusses will typically be used in tandem with angle struts to provide extra support for the main king post. King post timber trusses are identified as closed trusses.

Scissor timber trusses

Scissor trusses are constructed in a similar fashion to king post trusses. The difference lies with the tie beam as the scissor truss will have two angle members instead. These two angled members are what will join to the structure's rafters to provide support. Scissor trusses also provide your structure with extra height at the center of the room, making them suitable for individuals who would like a pitched ceiling in their home

Queen post timber trusses

This type of timber truss is made up of two vertical posts that have been connected at equal distances to the middle support beam and the rafters. Another horizontal truss is then used as a connection beam at the heads of queen posts. If you are looking for trusses that will encompass a wide expanse, then queen post trusses would be an ideal choice, as they can span significant widths due to the additional support beams.

Howe timber trusses

These types of trusses are constructed similarly to their Pratt counterparts. The Howe trusses will have their beams installed with angles that lie in the opposite direction to the structure's rafters. In years past, Howe trusses were a mainstay in bridge building using steel materials. Over time, they have become commonplace in residential roofing designs.

Pratt timber trusses

Pratt timber trusses are made up of numerous vertical beams that have been installed between the rafters and the tie beams. To connect these posts together, angle struts are aligned in the same direction as the structure's rafters. A popular design used with Pratt trusses is the mono-pitched roofing style.