In the beauty field, the eyebrows shape the face; in art, the outer edges of the canvas; in housing, it's the roof truss. Whether it's predetermined during development or build as a DIY, the truss is a construction necessity; it is the roof after all.
The roof of any building represents the stability of the entire structure. Without it, the basic element any structure should provide, protection, is lost. Connecting the dots between the type of roof desired—be it an A-frame, flat, or a combination of the two—and understanding which kind of roof truss to use and in what capacity it should be built is not as difficult as it sounds.
A truss itself is a foundation to support and efficiently distribute heavy loads of weight. The most typical types of roof trusses (named according to their shape) include:
Gable: These typically use vertical or sloping planes that join at the centre of the structure. The most standard option, the gable design is situated over the shortest ends of the structure, but it can be dropped or transitional depending on the extension of the roof.
Scissor: These trusses are perfect for A-frame structures. Though on the expensive side, a scissor truss can add value to a structure by assisting the illusion of an open space.
Mono: Most ideal for out-parcel structures such as garages or outdoor storage sheds, a mono truss is built against an existing wall. This style of truss aims to provide a solid foundation for areas requiring controlled storage space.
Gambrel: These are symmetrical in design and are an ideal style for long structures with multi-angled slopes. A gambrel shortens the appearance of a taller roof while maximising the headroom within the space.
Factors to consider when choosing a roof truss
When considering a roof truss for your build, you shouldn't base your choices on the appearance alone. An experienced truss specialist can help you choose the best roof truss design as per your requirements. Here are several factors to consider:
• How much load or stress your roof must withstand
• The interior space you need in your building
• Cost-effectiveness
• Aesthetic preference
Consider your options before moving forward with building a truss. Structures can be customised to include multiple truss styles depending on the space available, storage needs and even weather. Additionally, take note that trusses can be built on out-parcels such as garages or sheds. Consult a professional architect or engineer to help you determine what kind of truss is needed for your establishment and in which capacity.
