5 Different Types of Roof Trusses and How to Choose the Right One

Florence Urbina
Posted by July 2, 2022 July 2, 2022

 

Roof truss manufacturers in the UK make different types of roof trusses to best accommodate your home and its needs. Whether you’re building an addition to your existing property or constructing an entirely new structure, there are several types of roof trusses to choose from. Here are the five most common types of roof trusses and how to choose the right one for your project.

1) Rafter roofs

Rafter roofs—the classic roof style that most people are familiar with—are supported by rafters, usually 2x4s running lengthwise along a ridge. They’re great for decks, porches, smaller additions or garages. Since they don’t span large distances like hip roofs do, they are relatively easy to build and less expensive than other truss types.

2) Straight valley (or king-post) roofs

Straight valley roofs are ideal for two-story homes with no attic. These roofs are simple in design, so they’re often cheaper than other roof truss styles. But, straight valley trusses can only support so much weight—so builders usually don’t use them on large homes. Most common on log cabins, these structures rely on single trunks to support each side of a split valley (king post).

3) Multi-pitched roofs

Multi-pitched roofs have two or more pitches, which add height. These roofs are typically three pitches or less. They aren’t as common as gable roofs because they don’t work well in regions that get a lot of snowfall (multiple pitches make it harder for snow to slide off). Their complex structure also makes them more expensive to build. However, multi-pitched roofs look very striking on houses with multiple stories.

4) Gable roofs

The most common type of roof, gable roofs feature two symmetrical (i.e., equal-sized) sides that meet at a peak or ridge—hence their name. These structures are ideal for homeowners who want something plain and simple but still striking in appearance. Gable roofs can be built with either truss or rafter framing

5) Hip roofs

Hip roofs are among some of the most common roofing structures in residential architecture. A hip roof is essentially a gabled roof with no vertical sides. Hip roofs can be made from various materials, including clay tiles, asphalt shingles, metal panels or composite lumber. They’re incredibly efficient at collecting rainwater because water runs off easily across their sloping sides into gutters.

Choose a reliable roof truss manufacturer

Once you’ve determined what type of roof truss will best suit your needs, it’s time to find a reliable manufacturer near your area. After all, nobody wants a defective product or worse—one that could collapse during a storm. When searching for a manufacturer, look for someone who is willing to explain their products in detail and provide you with pictures of completed projects (both past and present). We recommend that you select multiple manufacturers, including some smaller businesses as well as larger companies.